Last week, we published our Annual Report for FY17. It’s full of positive news and big numbers, like:

Of course, we can always find ways to be better. In FY17, Chittenden County sent 3.6% more material to the landfill overall — the most in 8 years. And while this increase can be largely attributed to a stronger economy, higher employment, and a growing population, it is a reminder that we can’t just rest on our laurels. It’s a reminder that there is still work to be done.

And to me, it’s a reminder of how important you are.

After all, you are the one who takes the time to read, learn, and inspire action in others. You are the one who takes our quizzes on recycling, accepts our challenges to Save the Food, shares our stories on Facebook, and asks questions when you don’t understand or want to know more.

So thank you: For doing what you do to reduce your own waste, reuse what you can, and recycle the rest.

And, of course, thank you for reading the NewsFlash!

In Chittenden County, food (& other compostables) makes up about 26% of the stuff we put in our household trash.

It’s not just a waste of food: Transporting all of that food to the landfill also wastes 9,724 gallons of diesel, generates 108 tons of carbon dioxide, and puts a lot of extra wear and tear on the road to the landfill.

Today, we are challenging you to help change that! We created three simple, totally achievable 6-week challenges. All you have to do is choose one.

Donating your unwanted items isn’t only a more responsible way to get rid of them. It’s also an easy way to help others in our community.

We recently stopped by Phoenix Books in Burlington to chat about their decision to stop giving out single-use plastic bags. They opted instead for a more durable alternative.

Get a head start on spring: From February 12th through March 9th, you’ll save 18% when you order two or more yards of bulk compost or raised bed mix. Buy it now, and get it later! Schedule pickup or delivery for anytime.

Sale valid only at Green Mountain Compost. Discount doesn’t apply to delivery fee.

Got a question? Just ask our A-Z list! From donation & recycling options to the landfill (last resort), we can tell you what to do with just about anything.

Does your school have what it takes?

Registration for the 2nd annual CSWD Recycle Rally is now open! The friendly interschool competition empowers students, raises awareness about resource recovery and conservation, and unites school communities around a common goal: Recycle Right: It Rocks! Registration deadline: February 23rd.

To learn more, or to register, visit the Recycle Rally page!

Holiday quiz results

The results from December’s holiday recycling quiz are in! Almost 400 of you completed the quiz, with the average score coming in at an impressive 8.31/10! (Think you can beat that? Try your hand at it here.)

Here are the Top 4 most missed questions.

Presidents’ Day: All CSWD facilities will be closed. View more.

CSWD Executive Board Meeting. View more.

Recycle Rally school registration closes. Learn more.

CSWD Full Board meeting. View more.

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