WGP Credit 4: Litter Prevention and Reduction Infrastructure (1 point)

Reciprocal

Intent:

To beautify public areas, prevent materials from polluting the natural environment, and encourage proper handling of materials by Local Governments and waste management Companies.

Local Government and Industry Requirements:

●      Prevention

o   Implement a program that encourages the adoption of durable products such as reusable bags and cups and disincentivizes single-use alternatives or eliminating disposable, single-use packaging at government sponsored community events. 

●      Reduction

o   Maintain a sufficient number of receptacles in public areas including walkways, parks, and other public places.

▪        Receptacles should be both visible and have effective signage.

▪        Side by side receptacles for both recycling and trash.

▪        Receptacles must have openings that contain waste without impeding the introduction of new material (i.e. push flaps, tops).

o   Consistent and reliable servicing of receptacles.

▪        A schedule is in place to appropriately empty receptacles nearing capacity.

▪        Limit overflow events to zero (0) per year. 

●      Enforcement

o   Demonstrate rapid cleanup of illegal dumping within 72 hours of being notified of the illegal dumping.

o   Demonstrate increased enforcement and fines for littering and illegal dumping.

o   Add signage stating no liter or dumping.

Potential Strategies

●      Example methods include unified language, artwork, vibrant colors, and/or colors that coincide with universal understanding    

●      In addition to trash, have multi-material disposal options (such as trash and recycling together).

●      Local Government programs to eliminate or reduce usage of products that are frequently littered e.g. bag bans or taxes/promotion or distribution of reusable bags; water bottle refilling stations in public places.

●      Partnering with local businesses or community groups and doing “Adopt a Street” programs.

●      Consistent education through labeling of acceptable materials in all container types – i.e. trash or recycling

●      Code enforcement of litter laws.

●      Analyze usage of street bin infrastructure and develop / adjust schedule based on seasonality and city events.

●      Include support for container deposit return systems, which have proven effective at significantly reducing litter and marine/waterway debris.

●      Utilize cloud-based remote receptacle monitoring systems and “smart” bins.