Department of Environmental Facilities is Seeking Opinions from Local Businesses on Recycling and Reuse Programs and other Sustainability Initiatives
Westchester County’s Department of Environmental Facilities (DEF) is working with Barton & Loguidice, a consulting firm, on a Waste Reduction Study that will serve as a guide for reducing waste generation and disposal throughout the next decade and beyond.
The study is seeking input from businesses throughout the County in an effort to engage commercial stakeholders in promoting a circular economy and waste reduction. The survey is designed to shed light on opportunities, barriers and support needed for commercial establishments to adopt circular economy strategies. Owners and managers of Westchester businesses can participate in the study by using this link: https://arcg.is/0aGWTW
In December, DEF released a Waste Reduction Survey for County residents. The Waste Reduction Study was made possible by a Board of Legislators initiative added to the 2024 Refuse Disposal District budget. That survey is still available at https://arcg.is/GDn8u0 or through the DEF Facebook page.
Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins said: “Westchester County is committed to reducing waste and finding new, sustainable ways to manage our resources. Businesses play a critical role in this effort, and their input will help shape the future of waste reduction strategies in our communities.”
Westchester County Legislator Erika L. Pierce said: “Waste reduction isn’t just good for the environment — it’s good for business. By participating in this study, commercial establishments can help identify practical solutions that will benefit both their operations and the greater community.”
Department of Environmental Facilities Commissioner Vincent Kopicki said: “Staying at the forefront of waste reduction requires constant adaptation and growth. Input from Westchester County businesses will provide essential insights to help further promote a circular economy. Whether you are a small business or a large business, your perspective matters and we want to hear from you.”
Department of Environmental Facilities First Deputy Commissioner Louis Vetrone said: “Businesses are a vital piece of the fabric of Westchester County. DEF wants to learn more about the barriers businesses face in promoting a circular economy and, importantly, the potential opportunities to support waste reduction and adopt circular economy strategies. This survey, in conjunction with the County residents survey, will paint a fuller picture of Westchester County’s waste reduction potential. We look forward to reviewing the results.”
Westchester County is a recognized municipal leader in waste reduction and recycling. Since 2005, the County has reduced the amount of waste it disposes of by over 27%. The County consistently posts annual recycling rates of at least 50%, far outpacing the New York State recycling rate of 43%. Over the past several years, DEF has introduced many new waste reduction initiatives and programs, including programs focused on food waste composting and textile recycling. But the County is not resting on its laurels.
Recently, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (“NYSDEC”) released the New York State Solid Waste Management Plan to serve as a guide to waste management agencies for the next ten years (2023-2032). The stated goal of the NYSDEC Plan is to achieve an 85% total waste stream recycling rate statewide by 2050. The Waste Reduction Study will help the County achieve the State’s ambitious goal.
For more information on Westchester County environmental programs and events, call the Recycling Helpline at (914) 813-5425 and follow us on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/WestchesterCountyDEF