For Immediate Release
Contact:  Jason Gerwig
630-407-6022
Feb. 26, 2008

COUNTY APPROVES SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT PLAN

Redick:  “By working together, we can ensure a healthy and clean environment.”

WHEATON ―The DuPage County Board approved its five-year Solid Waste Management Plan on Tuesday, a plan that highlights the County’s strong recycling rate, as well as calling for a greater increase in recycling programs by county businesses.

The Plan, which was first adopted in 1991, is mandated by State law to be updated every five years.  The goal is to continually evaluate waste generation, capacity, technology and other solid waste components, says Environmental Committee Chairman Jeff Redick.

According to the plan, there are adequate waste handling facilities in the region that can continue to accommodate DuPage County for the next five years.  This is in part due to a strong recycling rate especially from residential properties.  Redick also notes that without additional transfer stations, the cost of waste disposal is going to continue to increase for residents and businesses.

“DuPage County has made great strides in reducing the amount of solid waste we generate,” said Redick.  “What we have seen from this plan is more needs to be done, and more can be done.  There is room for improvement and I would encourage businesses to do their part in helping reduce the amount of solid waste they produce.  By working together now, we can ensure a healthy and clean environment for future generations.”

“As part of this request, the County has been working on preparing an in-house conservation policy that will include increasing recycling at the County complex,” said Redick.  “This policy recognizes that DuPage County needs to be a leader in these efforts, and we will lead by example by showing the way for other business properties.”

To view the County’s Five-Year Solid Waste Management Plan, please visit www.dupageco.org.