Reduce Reuse Recycle Team
Discussion Summary for March 14, 2007 Meeting
Minutes from Dec 13 meeting were approved.
Esther gave an update on Bluegrass Pride projects they are undertaking in cooperation with the LFUCG Dept of Public Works. They now have 30 schools (public and private) signed up to participate in recycling program and have done 7 dumpster dives. 14 more schools have expressed interest. Currently have 40 businesses and 7 apartment complexes signed up also. There was some discussion about extending this effort to FCPS administrative offices- this may be accomplished by having schools challenge the administrative office in a recycling contest.
Tom gave update on LFUCG HHW facility construction. He said that cleanup of the petroleum UST release at the planned location (Fleet Services) may slow the project some. He hopes to get state approval to proceed with the cleanup in near future.
Computer reuse and recycling were discussed. The January electronics drop-off event was reviewed. Steve said Saturday was their busiest day during the event; they received far more computers on this day than rest of week. Parks and Recreation spent approx 2 days on site and obtained 13 usable machines/hard drives for Tubby’s Clubhouse during the January event. Tom noted that there is a copy of the City Source article in the packet that discusses this and mentions the Bluegrass Partnership’s role. Goodwill is still looking at potentially recycling electronics but has not made a decision on how to proceed yet.
Tom also noted that folks dropping off computers during the January event were surveyed to determine whether they were in favor of allowing nonprofit organizations to reuse their computers. Although all the survey results had not been tallied, Tom looked at approximately 100 and they were overwhelmingly in favor of allowing reuse (there was only one that said no). A meeting will be scheduled with Parks, Solid Waste, Risk Management, etc to plan for April event. Bill is going to request that Rudy Cruse (Parks) contact Tom to schedule a meeting.
It was noted that Parks and Recreation are also now getting functioning surplus LFUCG machines (this will probably be several hundred per year) for Tubby’s program. This was a result of LFUCG internal discussions subsequent to the last Reduce Reuse and Recycle Team meeting.
Garry said FCPS may also be able to donate working computers to nonprofits. This would depend in part on wording of agreements and possibly legal considerations.
Cell phones were discussed. Tom asked if Solid Waste could more heavily advertise the fact that cell phones are accepted during the electronics drop-off event. Steve said that would be possible. Esther indicated that Pride is getting paid for old cell phones (she believes around $1.00 apiece). The RBRC call to recycle program for batteries and cell phones was also discussed. Tom will send RBRC link to FCPS, UK and Central KY Fiber so they can decide whether to set-up collection points.
US Mayors City Recycling Challenge (Cans for Cash) project was discussed briefly. Tom reminded group that we need to start working on this project earlier than last year particularly if SECAT is going to provide prizes for the schools that recycle the most, etc. This will be discussed in more detail at next meeting.
Steve briefed Team on Solid Waste activities. He believes the campaign to get Herbie to “lose weight” is working and that recycling is picking up. SECAT and Solid Waste will be evaluating recycling incentives in the McConnell’s Trace subdivision to try and identify the most effective ways to increase recycling. May include targeted mailings, coupons, monetary incentives, etc. Will use a solid waste truck with a scale to help determine success.
Solid Waste is also working with the KPPC to develop a mechanism/protocol to conduct community-wide waste stream audits.
Solid Waste is participating in upcoming Home and Garden Show.
Also moving to separate 14-gallon recycling bins for glass recycling to facilitate use of automated collection methods.
Team was briefed on Partnership Steering Committee activities. Committee has adopted bylaws and a copy of approved bylaws was in packet. Steering Committee is now reviewing Statement of Environmental Principles. Tom noted that the Steering Committee was planning to invite more organizations to join the Partnership and if any one had a specific organization in mind to let the Steering Committee know.
Bill let Team know that Parks and Solid Waste are working on an initiative to recycle at all parks. Are adding containers to Jacobson and Shillito Park picnic shelters as well as maintenance barns. Will also survey Community Centers and office buildings as an aid in setting up recycling. Will also have an education program for Parks employees to promote recycling.
Tom noted that WUKY is running “envirominute” radio spots on local environmental issues as discussed in previous meeting. Team members may be approached to speak on this program eventually.
The 2010 Equestrian Games was discussed briefly. It was noted that a Bluegrass Partnership Team had been formed to help make the games “greener.” The FEI has an existing green policy that the Team will be using to green up the games (instead of creating a new policy).
It was noted that Dr. Das would be speaking on the “Application of Six Sigma Methodology for Understanding and Enhancing the Recycling Rate of Used Aluminum Beverage Cans in Fayette County, Lexington, Kentucky" at the annual Sloan conference in Cambridge, MA during April 26-27.
It was noted that there is a “Campus Community Partnerships for Sustainability" conference scheduled for April 20-22 at EKU.
Also “Beyond Adversarialism: Toward a New Paradigm” conference on city planning is scheduled for Fri Mar 30 (5:30-9:30) & Sat Mar 31 (9:00-5:00). Contact Kandris at 257-3780 if you want to register.
Reforest the Bluegrass will be held Sat April 14 from 9 to 2 at McConnell’s Trace, Call LexCall to volunteer.
Barry Prater noted Central KY Fiber is now a KY EXCEL member. He also invited Team to attend Central KY Fiber open house on Monday March from 10:00 to 2:00.
Informational items in packet were reviewed.
Next meeting date and location: Wednesday May 23 at 1:30. Location to be determined.
--Tom Webb
Discussion Summary for December 13, 2006 Meeting
Minutes from meeting were reviewed and approved with minor changes.
US Mayors City Recycling Challenge (Cans for Cash) project was discussed. The Dec 7 press conference was discussed. Tom Webb noted that four representatives from Novelis and the US Mayors Conference traveled to Lex to present the “oversized” $5,000 check for the Most Innovative Idea category. He also noted that Sara Evans with Div of Waste presented a certificate to the LFUCG for participating in this contest (copy in packet) at the press conference. Approx 500 PSAs and 250 radio spots were run during the contest. In regards to next year’s contest, Garry Hoover suggested we start working with FCPS earlier (around June) particularly if SECAT is going to provide prizes for the schools that recycle the most, etc. He is willing to help ensure the right FCPS folks get involved. Three press releases went out from the LFUCG during the contest; one announcing the contest, one announcing we had won the award and; one announcing the Dec 7 press conference. The US Mayors Conference also issued a national release. Tom Webb thanked the Team for their hard work on this contest.
Esther gave an update on Bluegrass Pride projects they are undertaking in cooperation with the LFUCG Dept of Public Works. They now have 33 schools (public and private) signed up to participate in recycling program (33 active participants); 23 want audits. Finishing dumpster dives in all of these schools. Currently have 34 businesses signed up also.
Richard let the Team know that Solid Waste is revamping downtown collection routes to increase recycling rates.
Tom gave update on LFUCG HHW facility planning process. He met with Director and architect onsite Dec 11 to discuss how the HHW facility may be affected by ongoing UST remediation efforts. The intent still is to build a green facility, although it may not be “LEED” since he was unsure if the architectural firm had the experience/training to design a LEED facility.
Computer reuse possibilities were discussed. Rudy Cruse (Parks) and Ron Snowden (IT) explained how Tubby’s Clubhouse program works. Basically it is designed so kids tear down the computer and rebuild it then take it home. They give away approx 150 computers in an average year. Parks employee(s) clean & wipe machines and Central KY Computer Society helps “ghost” the machines (i.e. put Windows 2000 on the machines). The software “rights” come from the Central Kentucky Computer Society. Support is also provided for the machines once they are taken home so they need to keep uniform software on the machines (having a lot of different software programs to support would be more difficult). They have three classes per year and now also are expanding this program to Senior Citizens (currently on a limited basis). They have received support from various firms. DELL gives them computers but Rudy feels this source is diminishing. Lexmark gives each participant a printer. KY Trade, UK, Keeneland, Tubby Smith, and Central Bank have all provided some kind of support in the past but there is a need for more computers. Ron indicated that it may be possible for LFUCG to give Tubby’s Clubhouse our surplus computers if this could be worked out through IT and Central Purchasing.
It was decided that a meeting be scheduled with Purchasing to explore this possibility as well as reusing computers dropped off by the public during the Solid Waste electronics drop-off events for Tubby’s Clubhouse and other nonprofit organizations such as Goodwill and Connect Kentucky. Representatives from LFUCG, Goodwill and Connect Kentucky will meet onsite at Furrow’s at 1:30 on January 3rd to take a look at the types of electronics folks are dropping off.
Tom will also develop a draft survey to gauge the public’s support for reusing computers they drop off during the January event. Esther said she may be able to help with survey.
Erin noted that Goodwill had hosted 100 teenagers for the how-to recycling project she discussed at the last meeting and this went well.
Potential to reuse unwanted cell phones was discussed briefly. Erin reiterated that Goodwill does recycle cell phones but she is unsure of details on how they are managed (she believes they get $1.00 for each phone- unsure who is paying Goodwill for these). She will get details to share with Team.
Tom Webb briefed Team on Partnership Steering Committee activities. Committee is still reviewing bylaws to give the organization more structure and to better define what it means to be a Partner. Committee is also reviewing Statement of Environmental Principles. He noted there were copies of both in the packets and welcomed comments. He believes the Committee favors one partner level not the bronze, silver, and gold partnership levels as originally envisioned.
Information supplied by Barry Prater was shared with Team indicating the amount paid for recyclables was higher in container fee states than non-container fee states since there was less contamination. Tom said Barry may be able to provide more detail at next meeting.
Opportunity for the Partnership to participate in planning for the 2010 Equestrian Games was discussed briefly. It was noted that a Bluegrass Partnership Team is being formed to help make the games “greener.” Folks interested in serving on this Team should let Tom or the Steering Committee know they wish to serve. This is an important opportunity to green up the games and make for a greener community after the games. If we are successful, it will also give the Partnership more visibility.
It was noted there was information on crumb rubber grant possibility in the packet. This is designed primarily for athletic fields but possibly could be used for things such as Parks playgrounds or even the equestrian center (indoor riding arena) at Masterson Station. Bill noted that Allen Laughlin may be best Parks contact. Bill suggested this info be forwarded to Parks director (Chuck Ellis).
Tom briefed Team on Governors Conference on the Environment. Also let Team know the LFUCG had joined KY EXCEL (was first local government to join).
Next meeting date and location: Wednesday March 14 at 1:30. The meeting is (tentatively) planned to be held at McConnell Springs.
--Tom Webb
Discussion Summary for November 1, 2006 Meeting
A welcome was extended to our newest member- Erin Gold of Goodwill.
Minutes from meeting were reviewed and approved with no changes.
US Mayors City Recycling Challenge (Cans for Cash) project was discussed. According to the info provided by Baker and Wise and the LFUCG Recycling Center, 105,000 pounds of aluminum beverage cans were recycled during the contest period in Fayette County. This is equivalent to 3,780,000 cans using a conversion factor of 36 cans to a pound. It was noted that our recycling numbers went up during the two-week contest period at the LFUCG Recycling Center and at Wise compared to the prior two weeks but dropped at Baker. Baker has indicated they double-checked their numbers and could find no reason for the drop. The LFUCG Recycling Center processed 44,000 pounds (our totals went up by 4,000 pounds) worth approximately $33,000 dollars (at rate of 75 cents per pound). Tom Gregory noted that the Boy Scouts had passed out clear plastic bags & collected approximately 1,000 pounds worth of cans at the last UK home football game but he did not think these got turned in during the contest period. Tom Webb noted that the Stu’s News FCPS publication had an article promoting the contest in the packet. Tom Webb requested the Team review the draft media release about the contest numbers in the packet and get suggested revisions to him by Friday so he could finalize the release. An additional release will be done if we win any awards for numbers of cans recycled or for having an innovative marketing campaign when the US Mayors Conference announces winners on Nov 15th. November 15 is National Recycling Day. Tom will send final to LFUCG-PI, Anna to UKPR & FCPS. Dr. Das requested that Tom send him electronic version of the finalized media release so he could also distribute it. He also suggested we encourage the contest to adopt a pounds per person award. He stated Bowling Green competed in the contest and recycled approximately $75K worth of cans.
Dr. Das relayed that he had spoken with Ben Crutcher (UK) who told him that the new residence halls have aluminum Rosies; Tom Gregory said several have new Rosies, some have older Rosies, and the new dorms have aluminum can containers and other recycling containers. Dr. Das requested more recycling containers be placed beside vending machines at UK. Tom said that many machines dispensed plastic containers (as opposed to cans) and most folks did not actually drink the beverages in the vicinity of the vending machines so he did not believe this action would increase recycling rates very much. Tom said they have 250 recycling containers in place now at UK.
Tom Gregory recommends “LFUCG Recycling Center” be used when referring to the facility on Thompson Road as opposed to “Lexington Recycling Center” since “Lexington Recycling” was formerly the name of a local recycling company. Barry Prater confirmed that the rights of this name are still held by Central Kentucky Fiber and affiliated companies even though the name is not being used presently. Richard Boone said that the LFUCG facility is also referred to as the “LFUCG Material Recovery Facility.”
Barry has identified boxes and bags for recycling cans that could possibly be used for next year’s contest– we could probably distribute them through Bluegrass PRIDE and create more collection sites. Bill Clarke said he was at an event where Rumpke had supplied containers that were particularly well suited to recycling at outdoor events but he has not been able to run down any info about these specific containers.
Dr Das said he would like to suggest that we use the approach taken on Lexington’s Indoor Air Ordinance to increase recycling rates. He suggested we emulate Elaine Hahn (UK’s Smoke Free Lexington) approach– taking an academic study and using it to positively influence public policy – how can we do that? He felt that one of the keys was that she regularly met with Lexington Herald-Leader editorial board. It was noted that the Partnership (specifically the Outreach Team) would like to have a regular column in the paper. It as pointed out that one of the reasons the smoking issue got so much press may have been that it was viewed by some as controversial.
conferences in Lexington and Louisville (EQC and Governor’s Conference)
Esther gave an update on Bluegrass Pride projects they are undertaking in cooperation with the LFUCG Dept of Public Works. They now have 40 Fayette County schools signed up to participate in recycling program. Finishing dumpster dives in all 40 schools; a lot of the schools participating have not been recycling thus far; they are measuring by poundage and percentages and will share with the team. The BCTC dumpster dive for half a day showed 600+ pounds of refuse, half of which was recyclable – they are now promoting recycling efforts and hoping to decrease the twice a day dumpster servicing – will follow-up with another dumpster dive in April or May. Esther is working with apartments and restaurants. Currently has 4 apartments signed up and 4 pending as well as 18 or 19 businesses. Anna suggested that Esther email list of businesses to Anna to present to Business Lexington editor for a news article. Steve Feese noted challenges with container sizes and space at some locations. Esther noted language barriers with heavily Hispanic apartment complexes can impede recycling.
Steve Feese gave update on LFUCG Solid Waste activities. Steve noted planning for the LFUCG HHW facility is ongoing. Currently working with architects and information gathering re HHW. The intent is to build a green facility. Also briefed Team on the recently completed Solid Waste study prepared by an outside consultant. In the study, consultant suggested that: mandatory recycling be considered; that services should be provided to all businesses (LFUCG does not currently provide waste or recycling service to many large generators e.g., Wal Mart, Lexmark, etc.). They felt that either services should be provided to the businesses or the businesses shouldn’t pay for services they are not receiving. There was also some discussion of charging for solid waste services based on volume of waste picked up.
Steve noted the (residential) electronic scrap drop-off event held the first week in October (Oct 2-7) went well and we collected in excess of 100,000 pounds of electronics. This led into a discussion on reuse potential for computers that we collect.
Tom Webb informed Team that he and Steve Feese met on site with Tracy Roterman of Connect Kentucky to discuss computer reuse possibilities subsequent to last Team meeting. Tracy had expressed an interest in machines that have a Pentium 3 or better hard drive and that many of the machines we now get from residents are Pentium 3 so the potential for reuse is there. Under the Connect Kentucky program, the machines are refurbished at the Leestown Road correctional facility in Lexington and then given to eighth graders that cannot afford a computer. They have existing agreements with software companies regarding licensing. Tom felt that they could not use all the computers we get- just a portion.
Erin stated that Goodwill is Goodwill is active in computer recycling across the country and is very interested in establishing a robust local program to reuse and refurbish computers as well as sell computer parts. She said Austin Texas has a very active program along this line and they process several truckloads each day. The Goodwill program would also be used to teach job skills to their workers.
We also discussed whether Central Kentucky Computer Society or Tubby’s Clubhouse should be involved in this effort.
Decided to pursue following actions: confirm other interested parties (e.g. Goodwill, Tubby’s Clubhouse); set up an ad hoc team of people who want to work on computer issues (Erin, Garry, Bill volunteered to serve on this Team and we will also contact Rudy Kruse in Parks and Leanna Martin in IT); won’t try to reuse computers from Jan 07 event but will survey residents during January event to identify number of Pentium 3 computers we get as well as to whether they support reuse. Our initial goal (hope) is to have something in place to capture and re-use computers by the April 07 collection event. Rudy Kruse at Parks (Picadome) about whether or not Tubby’s Clubhouse should be included.
Erin said that on Nov. 18th Goodwill will be hosting a hundred teenagers for a how-to recycling project with their environmental engineer and computer person; also showing remanufacture of clothing, shoes, etc.;
Potential to reuse unwanted cell phones was discussed. Tom Webb noted that very few cell phones were collected during the October electronics recycling event and the ones that were dropped off were older models and appeared to have little if any value. Erin said Goodwill does recycle cell phones and she believes they get $1.00 for each phone- she was unsure if Motorola was paying Goodwill for these or another company. It was noted that it may be possible to increase volume if we specifically focus on promoting cell phone recycling during future collection events.
Tom Webb and Anna briefed Team on Partnership Steering Committee activities. Committee is currently drafting bylaws to give the organization more structure and to better define what it means to be a Partner. The bylaws may include criteria for partnership. In draft form there are bronze, silver, and gold partnership levels which are based on the number of environmental projects the organization performs (the projects would be of the organization’s choosing). The results of the environmental projects would then be reported to the community to show our progress. A one-page agreement of support to avoid “diluting the value of the partnership” may also be required. It was noted the Partnership has evolved as we go and the bylaws should help ensure all the Partners make meaningful contributions. The draft bylaws also contain language about meeting attendance/participation and the responsibilities of the Steering Committee.
Opportunity for the Partnership to participate in planning for the 2010 Equestrian Games was discussed. Jack Kelly of FEI addressed the Steering Committee at last meeting. He wants BPGC to help make the games “greener”, which will make for a greener community after the games. If we are successful, it gives the Partnership more visibility, creates more contacts, and may establish the Partnership as the premier local environmental organization in Fayette County. If we do not participate, the “vacuum” will likely be filled by other groups, since they plan on having over 100 committees. There are lots of waste management issues and it would likely take a significant amount of work. They have asked the Partnership for a green policy such as the Olympics’ policy; this could address issues such as carbon credits, mass transit issues, biodegradable food service ware; purchasing synergies; building design; etc. Tom Webb noted that the FEI was not yet a Bluegrass Partner but he anticipated the Steering Committee would extend an invitation to the FEI to join since this would likely facilitate our involvement with the Games. Tom Gregory suggested we also extend an invitation to the Horse Park itself to join the Partnership. Steve Feese stated that the LFUCG is going to be heavily involved and Steve thinks getting the Partnership involved on the front end could better allow us to positively influence the Games.
Tom noted the LFUCG had joined the Energy Star Change a Light Campaign and asked citizens to change incandescent bulbs to fluorescent bulbs to save energy.
Tom noted there was an EPA Resource Conservation Challenge (solid waste) grant possibility in the packet with an application deadline of Nov 15. It is too late for our Team to develop a grant application but maybe we could next year. Dr. Das stated SECAT may submit a proposal this year to increase recycling.
It was noted that there was info in the packet for the Nov 29 and 30 Governor’s Conference on the Environment and the EQC Meeting on November 13. Both will be worthwhile if members can attend.
Next meeting date and location: Wednesday December 13 at 1:30 at McConnell Springs.
--Tom Webb
Discussion Summary for August 23, 2006 Meeting
Minutes from previous (July 19) meeting were reviewed and approved.
Brief introductions were made again and the new members were welcomed.
The Bluegrass Partners for a Green Community Aug 11 & 12 conference was discussed. Feedback from attendees was included in packet. Overall feedback was positive (especially considering the short time available to put the conference together). It was also noted that there was a Herald Leader article on the conference in the packet as well as an article by Sue Weant in Business Lexington on sustainable cities. A copy of the Power Point on Reduce, Reuse and Recycle Team projects that was presented at the conference was also included in packet.
Esther gave an update on Bluegrass Pride projects they are undertaking in cooperation with the LFUCG Dept of Public Works. They now have 34 Fayette County schools signed up to participate in recycling program which significantly exceeded their original goal of 13. They also have signed up the Southland Business Association & Ball Homes and several other businesses as part of their initiative to promote recycling at businesses and apartments. There is a (Waste Busters) press conference scheduled for 11:00 Sept 8 at the Recycling Center to promote these initiatives and Team members are encouraged to attend. Tom noted that a FCPS teacher (Leia Hart) had expressed an interest in Crawford Middle School participating in the school recycling effort; Ester requested that Tom forward this to Maxine (Pride) so that she can follow-up.
Penny and Steve Feese gave update on LFUCG Solid Waste activities. A firm has now been hired to design the HHW facility and Steve is scheduled to attend SWANA HHW training. Additionally, a (residential) electronic scrap drop-off event is scheduled for the first week in October and then for the first week of every third month (quarter) thereafter.
Use of recycled glass was discussed. It was noted that the Div of Police is now using recycled glass from the LFUCG Recycling Center in the sand backstop at the outdoor firing range and that it will also be used in the Haley Pike Landfill closure as well as the road leading to the landfill. It may also be used in Greenway/trail projects. It is also catching on in landscaping. Tom Heil stated that it is now permissible to use mixtures of up to 10% glass in road construction in Kentucky. He also noted that some asphalt plants add the glass directly to their mix when producing asphalt that helps address potential concerns regarding handling, etc. Bill Clarke said that it might be possible to use it in landscape applications for Parks and Recreation if documentation could be provided demonstrating its safety.
--Tom Webb, Team Leader
Discussion Summary for July 19, 2006 Meeting
Minutes from previous meeting were reviewed and approved.
Brief introductions were made again.
Tom Webb noted that he had attended EPPC Project EXCEL workshop in Somerset and he felt that it would be advantageous to join the EXCEL partnership. David Gabbard (LFUCG) met last Thursday with Cheryl Taylor (who is spearheading this program for the EPPC) to discuss this partnership. There are currently 17 EXCEL partners but no governments- if the LFUCG becomes an EXCEL partner the LFUCG might be one of the first governments to join. Members were unclear as to whether UK or FCPS is ready to join yet. Tom noted that incentives including putting your permit applications at the top of the pile(for review) and the good PR. LFUCG will probably join at the partner level, would be nice if the BPGC could join as a whole but probably not possible.
Steve Feese/Public Works briefed Team on the Recycling Center upgrade. Outside construction is finished, moving ahead with Bluegrass PRIDE to focus on developing an education room/program, continuing expansion of Recycling Center in terms of capacity for materials processing. He noted that a growth in volume is expected.
Steve also briefed Team on HHW initiatives. Solid Waste has identified a potential site for the proposed HHW facility at Fleet Services site on Byrd Thurman Drive and is awaiting approval. The proposed location previously contained (petroleum) underground storage tanks and it is likely that some additional soil sampling may be required. Steve said that Solid Waste hopes to do accept electronics year-round once the facility is constructed. They are also working on litter control (Mayor will soon be holding a press conference to promote a litter prevention initiative).
Amy Sohne updated Team on Bluegrass PRIDE Activities. Maxine is working on an online unit for the 27 KY schools that want to participate in lessons and activities on recycling within their schools (Bryan Station is only FCPS high school not participating at this time); different levels of participation are possible; helping with mayor’s press conference on the Aug 31; videos on GTV3; just hired a new program manager who will work on business & apartment recycling.
Anna Hoover gave BPGC agenda overview for the Aug 10 & 11 conference, urged individuals to register before Friday, July 21 deadline.
Team discussed Project Proposals. Subsequent to our last meeting the Steering Committee had asked that all the Teams develop 3 or 4 project proposals to present at the upcoming Bluegrass Partnership conference. Team reviewed the 4 proposals contained in the packet. Tom noted that these were developed with an eye to being achievable, being low or no cost, and they built on existing initiatives. The projects are outlined below:
1) Increase aluminum recycling by participating in the US Mayor’s Cash for Cans National Recycling Challenge- Sign up ends August 31 & cans are collected and counted during a 2 week period is September. Tom noted a good thing about this initiative is that it builds upon the existing recycling initiatives the Partners have & gives us a lot of flexibility. Tom Gregory can get recycling numbers for UK football games; Tom Webb proposed using PSAs to get the word out; Steve Feese encouraged existing institutional recycling programs at UK or FCPS be emphasized; Amy proposes a competition for schools; Tom says a certificate for participation may be a good idea since it is a national competition; Steve proposed support from local entities involved in aluminum recycling; Amanda suggested something be sent to students from the president’s office announcing the campaign; Amy will discuss this project with the Partner’s Outreach Team & propose this as an outreach effort; Amanda will check in with the Kernel; Gary will forward email to the director of high schools; Tom would like for Team members to forward promotion ideas to Steve Feese and Tom Webb; he asked for suggestions for a theme be submitted within 2 weeks and he will route these around to Team members for their review.
2) Increase recycling rates of cell phones & NiCD, Li-ion, NiMH and small sealed Pb acid rechargeable batteries in Fayette County. Tom noted that the nonprofit RBRC has a good program in place to recycle both cell phones and rechargeable batteries & it is easy to sign up for this partnership & the LFUCG already has several RBRC drop-off points; the RBRC pays shipping & recycling costs and provides shipping containers; no real cost to the Team if we move forward; LFUCG has not really promoted this program heavily & Steve Feese said we could do PSAs/Public Education on this subject; Amy Sohner asked if programs that pay cash for used phones could be used to fund local nonprofit organizations; Tom noted that Motorola has such a program for schools and there are other organizations that pay cash for cell phones that are less than 2 years old; ; Amy suggests tracking collection #s (Tom says RBRC tracks for you); Tom suggests that regardless of which program we pursue to handle cell phones that rechargeable batteries should be recycled through the RBRC; it was suggested we initially recycle phones through the RBRC and that we could look at participating in other programs (that pay for the phones) at a later date (once we see the types of phones being collected).
3) Increase overall recycling rates among Partners – This is a broad initiative aimed at improving recycling rates at the Partner’s facilities and ties in well with the work that Pride is doing with Fayette County Schools. This would rely largely on employee education and renewed emphasis on existing programs. Amanda noted that projects 1 & 2 will help with this project also. It was noted that recycling is challenging in a school environment and the support of Maintenance folks is needed; Steve Feese said reduction in landfill fees should help make case for recycling but you also need clear support from the top to move forward.
- Increase general recycling rates among area businesses- Again this builds on existing efforts (including Pride’s recent efforts).
After the projects were reviewed the Team decided all projects should be pursued and it was OK to present these at the August Bluegrass Partner’s Conference.
Amy noted that all 4 projects involved recycling (none focused on reduce or reuse components); Tom feels that these two issues will fall more to Green Purchasing team and that it may not be feasible to identify these type of projects in time for the Partnership conference given short turnaround time; Amanda noted Oregon State has an “unshopping” card which asks hard economic and environmental questions before you make a purchase – could we partner with a local utility to stuff their envelopes with this type of info?
There was some discussion of the 50% higher recycling rates in states with container fees versus non container fee states and whether it would be a good time to promote a container fee in Kentucky since the Equestrian Games are upcoming.
It was noted that the Lex-Fayette Environmental Commission is seeking nominees for their annual award; you can go to their website or contact Jim Rebmann in LFUCG Div of Planning. Nominations are due August 31.
Due to fact that we are planning on having a tour of the Recycling Center during the conference the Recycling Center Tour scheduled for today was postponed until conference.
Team members reviewed informational items contained in packet.
Next meeting date and location: Wednesday August 23 @ 1:30pm – tentative location McConnell Springs.
Discussion Summary for May 10, 2006 Meeting
• The second meeting of this Team was held on May 10. The main goals of this meeting were to make Team members aware of ongoing environmental projects and to identify new environmental projects for this Team to pursue.
• Team was briefed on the sustainability efforts being made by UK and the manner in which UK 's Sustainability Team was formed. It was noted that that UK 's Sustainability Team, which meets monthly, has been in existence for four years and the initial impetus for creating the Team came from UK students. Some highlights of this briefing included:
• The UK Team places an emphasis on academics and sustainability curriculum. The Team also focuses on community outreach, transportation, and storm water management.
• Students recently voted to enact a $6.00 to $8.00 fee (effective fall semester of '07) to be spent promoting sustainability, which will raise approximately 400 K per year for sustainability efforts. It is anticipated that the initial funds will be spent on renewable energy (in this case wind energy).
• UK recently created a full time position to promote recycling in dorms and apartments.
• UK is starting a new living/learning community this August that will focus on sustainability. This initiative will initially involve several floors of a dormitory. Student interest in this program appears to be high.
• Utilities at UK can be controlled from one central point; this allows UK to reduce costs by controlling heating and cooling at all buildings on campus.
• UK uses electric golf carts for some campus operations and is getting ready to try out a golf cart with a solar roof.
• The Team thanked UK for hosting the recent tour of UK 's EQMC (hazardous materials) facility.
• LFUCG Public Works employees briefed Team on Spring Clean HHW collection results. The amount of material collected during the April 22 event exceeded expectations; 1860 cars were offloaded representing 1900 households. The mercury collection and thermometer swap went well.
• It was noted the Lexington Recycling Center expansion was nearly complete. A second sorting screen was installed and the facility expanded by approx 10,000 sq ft.
• Team was updated on LFUCG Public Works contract with Pride to promote recycling. This initiative will focus on schools, apartment buildings, community education, and designing the interactive display at the Recycling Center .
• It was noted that Senate Bill 50 had passed the state legislature and this bill now gives communities the flexibility to spend Pride cleanup funds for recycling and HHW collection (provided all dumps in the county had been cleaned up first).
• It was also noted that Lexington ranked 12 th nationally (out of 252 cities surveyed) in the recent Green Guide survey.
• KY Project EXCEL program. Joining Project EXCEL may be a good initiative for the Partnership to consider. Information on Project EXCEL was included in member's packets.
• Team was briefed on MIT grant SECAT had recently received to study strategies to increase recycling. The study as envisioned would rebate a portion of the participant's trash bill based on their recycling rate (there would be 24 cells of 20 participants). The study would also test the effectiveness of particular recycling messages. Lexington and Bowling Green are the two communities the study will focus on.
• It was noted that several cities in the northeast recently began using an innovative approach (Recycling Bank) to enhance recycling that provides rebates to participants. There was discussion as to whether this approach could be used to support our local recycling efforts.
• Opportunities to increase recycling at public gatherings and sports venues (particularly UK football games) were discussed.
• Potential projects were discussed for our Team to tackle. This include (1) recycling at sporting events; (2) disposal of unwanted pharmaceuticals and personal care products; (3) battery and cell phone recycling; (4) beneficial use of street sweepings; (5) universal waste; (6) mulch/compost use; (7) CD&D management; (8) general expansion of recycling among partners; (9) recycling competition; (10) biodegradable waste (grease, utensils, food wastes); (11) waste grease to biodiesel and; (12) expanding yard waste program. After some discussion, the Team decided to initially focus on one project and that the first project would be an initiative to promote can recycling. The Team requested that the chairperson identify a project for the Team to consider. It was noted that the “Cash for Cans” recycling competition (sponsored by the U.S. Conference of Mayors) might be a good project to pursue.
• Team named was reviewed. Members wanted to avoid the word waste if possible. After some discussion Team voted to change the name to the Reduce, Reuse and Recycle Team.
• The next meeting will be held 1:30 on July 19th at the Lexington Recycling Center located at 360 Thompson Road .
--Tom Webb, Team Leader
Discussion Summary for March 3, 2006 Meeting
The Bluegrass Partners Waste Minimization Team held our inaugural meeting on March 3. After introductions were made the Team was briefed on the history of the Bluegrass Partnership, how this Team was formed, and our relationship to the other seven Partnership Teams. It was noted that although the Partnership initially is being driven primarily by UK, FCPS and LFUCG, the goal is for the Partnership to be inclusive and involve others who want to help create a more sustainable community.
The meeting was very productive. Much of the discussion focused on increasing Team members understanding of what the others are doing now to promote sustainability as well as potential waste management challenges and opportunities. Some of the highlights are listed below.
• LFUCG Public Works representatives briefed the team on ongoing Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) projects. The Spring Clean HHW collection event is scheduled for April 22 from 8:30-4:00 at the Old Frankfort Pike landfill. Volunteers are welcome. It was noted that the LFUCG is in process of planning a fixed HHW facility that hopefully will be up and running next year and that the LFUCG had just finished visiting Knoxville's facility. UK offered to allow the Team tour the UK hazardous materials storage facility.
• The Team was informed that the Haley Pike LFUCG construction demolition debris (CD&D) landfill is in process of being closed and that the partners will need to find an alternate disposal method/location once this landfill closes. This may be a good project for this Team to consider.
• Street sweepings were also discussed. This may be another good project for the partners to consider since once the Haley Pike CD&D landfill closes we will not be able to dispose of sweepings there.
• Public Works briefed Team on compost pad operations and LFUCG yard waste program. It was noted that the Yard Waste Separation Ordinance was well received and easy to implement and that the compost pad has now been expanded to six acres. Finished compost is marketed to nurseries and some is used internally. Free mulch is also given to the public three times each year.
• Bluegrass Pride is in the process of being contracted by LFUCG to work on projects such as promoting recycling within (ten) schools as well as businesses and apartments, an anti- litter program, and design of the education room at LFUCG Recycling Center.
• Team was briefed on recent LFUCG Recycling Center upgrades as well as the fact that the LFUCG is entering into an agreement with 13 surrounding counties to accept their material. Once construction is finished in April, the Team can take a tour of the upgraded facility. Recycling rates have doubled since implementing the one sort plus glass system. A waste stream characterization study is also planned.
• SECAT representatives discussed potential for increasing aluminum recycling. Kentucky is involved in manufacturing approximately one third of the aluminum cans in the U.S. The local aluminum can recycling rate is approximately 39% and that nationally over 2 billion dollars worth of cans are not recycled every year. After some discussion it was decided that promoting aluminum recycling at UK football games might be a good project.
• Team members were asked to give some serious thought to which projects they would want to see this Team pursue prior to the next meeting . Projects should be measurable and achievable and benefit as many of the partners as possible.
--Tom Webb, Team Leader