On Earth Day 2021, the City of Norwalk reminds everyone to Reduce, Reuse, & Recycle for a happier and healthier Earth.
“Happy Earth Day, Norwalk! On this 51st anniversary of the first Earth Day, we reaffirm our commitment to protecting the environment and taking action to limit the impacts of climate change. We have done so much over the last several years, and have taken huge steps forward, but we have a lot of work left to do,” said Norwalk Mayor Harry W. Rilling. “I thank Councilmembers Tom Livingston and Lisa Shanahan for their ongoing partnership and for taking a lead role on these efforts. They are advocates for all of Norwalk. I commend Tom, Lisa, and all of our residents and businesses that understand we have to do everything we can to protect our planet and natural resources for the future generations.”
The City of Norwalk has implemented numerous green initiatives and environmental policies over the last several years to help protect the environment. The City has demonstrated its commitment to green initiatives and caring for the environment through previous policy decisions and Mayor Rilling is doubling down on these efforts with future plans and programs:
- In July 2019, the City enacted a plastic bag ordinance which eliminated the use of single-use plastic bags in Norwalk. The City provided reusable tote bags to various community and school groups to further these efforts and help educate the community.
- In April 2020, an ordinance prohibiting the selling and distribution of single-use plastic straws, single-use plastic stirrers, and polystyrene, more commonly referred to as Styrofoam, went into effect.
- In July 2020 the City replaced older fleet vehicles with hybrid vehicles that average 43 miles per gallon. Less fuel efficient vehicles will continue to be replaced with hybrids.
- In July 2020 the City launched a Food Scrap Collection Program, and through March 2021, the program has diverted almost 40 tons of food scraps out of the municipal solid waste or garbage. The City is working to grow the program in the next year and expand composting locations.
- The City has expanded its tree planting program to enhance natural tree canopy around Norwalk. The City is committed to growing the tree program through dedicated financial resources and community partnerships.
- At the direction of the Mayor, City Departments are moving to become fully paperless and expand online services in 2021-2022.
- The City is installing solar panels wherever feasible. Tonight, April 22, 2021 at 6:30, a Solar for All Norwalk program is being presented for homeowners to take advantage of low-cost solar options.
“If we expect Mother Earth to take care of us, we have to take care of her. Every action we take – big or small – can make a real difference,” said Mayor Rilling. “This Earth Day and every day, I encourage residents to reduce, reuse, and recycle. Let us make sure that our children and grandchildren can enjoy fresh air and clean water. We only have one planet – let’s take good care of her.”
The City of Norwalk also encourages residents to continue Single-Stream Recycling. Below are some reminders:
- Place all items, including cardboard, in the blue cart. Do not place items on top of the cart or outside of the cart.
- Keep the items loose in the cart and avoid wedging or jamming items into the cart, as to facilitate dumping.
- Place carts with lid opening facing toward the street.
- Do not place cart within a few feet of other items.
- Do not mix garbage, liquids, or other non-recyclable materials in the cart.
- Large rigid plastic items, clothing & shoes, electronic items, light bulbs (fluorescent or regular), scrap metal, waste oil, antifreeze and batteries are not recycled curbside in your cart. Most of these items can be recycled at the Norwalk Transfer Station located at 61 Crescent Street.
For more information on single-stream recycling in Norwalk, please contact the Customer Service Center at (203) 854-3200 or visit www.norwalkct.org