Newburyport Announcing New Waste Removal Initiatives Aimed at Sustainability and Cost Management
September 27, 2024September 27, 2024
Newburyport Announcing New Waste Removal Initiatives Aimed at Sustainability and Cost Management
In order to support State and City waste reduction goals, the City of Newburyport is launching new initiatives, including an overflow waste management program, set to begin on October 14, 2024. Costs in waste removal have been rising across the nation, and Newburyport has seen costs increase by a combined 35% for trash collection, transportation, and disposal over the last year. This new overflow waste management program promotes equitable waste removal by requiring residents who exceed the weekly trash limit to purchase designated orange overflow bags. The initiative builds on years of successful waste reduction efforts and mirrors similar programs adopted by cities and towns across the Commonwealth, furthering Newburyport’s dedication to minimizing its environmental footprint.
Overflow Trash Program Details
Program Launch: October 14, 2024
As part of Newburyport’s ongoing waste management efforts, the overflow trash program aims to reduce city expenses and contribute to Massachusetts’ 2030 waste reduction goals.
New Weekly Trash Limit: Households will now be limited to 64 gallons of trash per week (about five 13-gallon kitchen trash bags or two 33-gallon bags), down from the current 96 gallons.
Overflow Trash Bags: Residents exceeding the 64-gallon limit can purchase orange overflow bags for additional waste. These bags, sold in rolls of five for $10, will be available at local stores, including Market Basket, Shaw’s, Richdale, and Black Duck Market. Overflow bags can be placed curbside along with regular trash.
Bulk Items Disposal: The bulk item disposal stickers fee will increase to $15. Bulk stickers will be available at the same grocery and convenience stores throughout the city.
“These new initiatives are a testament to the collective efforts of our entire community,” said Mayor Reardon. “These changes represent a balanced approach to managing rising costs while prioritizing sustainability. Together, we’re working towards the state’s ambitious goal of reducing waste by 30% by 2030.”
Resident Engagement and Next Steps
In the coming week, residents will receive a postcard with details about the Overflow Trash Program. The city encourages everyone to stay informed by visiting the city’s website for updates, FAQs, and waste reduction tips.
A Decade of Progress
For over a decade, Newburyport has championed waste reduction initiatives designed to lower waste generation, boost recycling rates, and foster community engagement. Thanks to these efforts, household trash output has remained stable, averaging 1,350 pounds per household annually since 2010—an impressive feat amid rising national waste trends. The city’s waste containment measures, even during periods of fluctuation like the pandemic, reflect a sustained commitment to achieving the State of Massachusetts’ waste reduction goals.
Waste Management Achievements
Newburyport’s long-standing dedication to waste reduction is demonstrated through several impactful programs, including:
Zero-Waste and Organics Collection Programs: Newburyport has led the region in waste reduction efforts, bolstered by state-mandated bans on mattress and textile disposal.
Mandatory Recycling and Enforced Trash Limits: Our recycling enforcement and trash caps have encouraged more sustainable consumption and disposal habits.
Community Engagement Programs: The Recycling IQ initiative and educational outreach efforts have raised awareness about responsible waste management.
Additionally, the city provides low-cost or free disposal services through facilities like the Colby Farm Lane Recycling Center and Yard Waste Facility, including Swap Shops at both sites, where residents can exchange reusable items. The city also encourages composting by promoting yard waste mulching as a natural soil enrichment process.
Curbside Recycling Expansion: Serving 85% of households, the expanded curbside recycling program has significantly increased recycling rates across the city.
Composting Initiatives: In 2023, Newburyport diverted 759 tons of organic waste from incineration through its community-wide composting programs.
Single-Use Plastic Reduction: The city’s ban on plastic bags and promotion of reusable containers have led to the beginning of reduction in plastic waste.
Public Education and Outreach: Collaborations with local schools, businesses, and nonprofits such as ACES have empowered residents with the knowledge and tools to reduce waste.
For more information on Newburyport’s recycling and waste reduction programs, or to learn how you can get involved, visit www.cityofnewburyport.com or contact the Recycling and Sustainability Office at (978) 499-0413.
