Earth Day At 40- Pittsburgh Announces Two New Tools To Help City Residents Go Green

This year we celebrate the 40th Anniversary of Earth Day on April 22, the nationwide teach-in that kick-started many of the major environmental programs we have today. In this section each week the PA Environment Digest will highlight upcoming Earth Day events.  Submit your events for this page to:  DHess@CrisciAssociates.com.

            PA Environmental Heritage
            In 1905 the General Assembly passed the first law to set standards for the disposal of domestic sewage known as the Purity of Waters Act.
            In 1914 the Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania was established by individuals interested in the study and protection of birds.
            In 1921 construction began on the Appalachian National Scenic Trail with volunteers and was completed in 1937.
            The modern Fish Commission was established in 1923.
            Check out DEP's Environmental Heritage Timeline for more on our history.
            NewsClips: Lehigh Valley Earth Day Activities And Events
                                Great NE PA Cleanup Seeks Volunteers

Earth Day: Pittsburgh Announces Two New Tools To Help City Residents Go Green

Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl this week announced two new tools designed to help City residents "go green." The first is a "Hard-to-Recycle" drop-off collection site on the first floor of the City-County Building; the second is a Green Guide.

            For years the City has partnered with the Pennsylvania Resources Council to host one day hard-to-recycle collection events, which allow residents of western Pennsylvania to recycle appliances, electronic waste (computers, cell phones, television sets, etc.), tires and household chemicals for a small fee. 
            "Despite the success of the one day collections, citizens have continued to ask for more convenient options to recycle the most common hard-to-recycle items, such as alkaline batteries, cell phones and printer/toner cartridges," said Ravenstahl.
            In response to these requests, citizens can now visit the City-County Building (open 6:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 6:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. on Saturdays) to properly recycle those items. The City-County Building drop-off collection site, located in the Lobby, is one of several to be installed throughout the City by the Pennsylvania Resources Council with support from The Heinz Endowments.
            Ravenstahl also explained the need for a City Green Guide. "I believe most Pittsburghers, like me, want to 'go green', but don't know where to start. This Green Guide is a great way to introduce citizens and businesses to more sustainable living."
            The directory-type guide provides information on services offered by the City of Pittsburgh as well as resources for community involvement and living a more sustainable lifestyle. The guide provides information ranging from how to recycle and compost, to where to find used appliances and furniture, to how to help preserve Pittsburgh parks.
            "April is a great time to introduce these new tools since it is a month marked by environmental activities to commemorate Earth Day, which officially falls on April 22," said Lindsay Baxter, the City's sustainability coordinator.
            "I'm proud of the accomplishments the City is making," said Ravenstahl, "but know that becoming a truly sustainable city will require the participation of all of our citizens. These resources will enable that involvement."
            The Green Guide is available online or by contacting the Mayor's 311 line.

 


4/12/2010

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