5-Point Mayoral Agenda for a Clean and Waste-Free Future for Philadelphia
We envision a Philadelphia that promotes equity as it strives to achieve Zero Waste by 2035.
We call for transparent and strategic action by the next mayor to ensure efficient and reliable waste collection, recycling, litter prevention and enforcement programs in its role to support and expand the circular economy. We must also end dumping and littering by 2028 to restore a quality of life for all Philadelphians that contributes to a safe, clean and thriving ecosystem.
To achieve this vision, statements alone are not enough. The time for action is now.
Therefore, we call on all 2023 mayoral candidates to make a pledge that, upon their election as mayor, they will pursue the following 5-point agenda for a clean and waste-free future for Philadelphia:
1
Within the first 100 days of your administration, appoint a new position of Deputy Streets Commissioner for Zero Waste and establish a Mayor’s Office of Zero Waste to direct zero waste strategies and the Streets Department’s collection and abatement operations in cooperation with other operating departments.
- Position this office under the supervision of the managing director’s office and transform the current Division of Sanitation and its Deputy Commissioner to the Division of Collection and Abatement.
- Mandate that the Division of Collection and Abatement operates according to the parameters and methods established by the Mayor’s Office of Zero Waste.
- Conduct and implement the recommendations of a comprehensive study of trash and recycling collection operations and a Zero Waste Management Plan that incorporates technology and data to increase materials recovery and improve source reduction outcomes.
2
Appoint experienced and accomplished individuals to the positions of Streets Commissioner, Deputy Streets Commissioner of Zero Waste, Deputy Streets Commissioner of Collection and Abatement, and support them politically and financially.
- Open each position for a national search for the most qualified candidates.
- Hire candidates with a clear commitment to zero waste with commensurate experience in managing efficient waste management systems.
3
Direct the Mayor’s Office of Zero Waste to recommit to implementing the Zero Waste and Litter Action Plan and developing strategies to achieve zero waste by 2035.
- Improve enforcement of the plastic bag ban and implement bans on other single use plastic.
- Strengthen and expand the Zero Waste Partnership (ZWP) program to grow the local economy and support businesses that are increasing circularity.
- Roll out street sweeping citywide, adhering to best practices from other cities.
- Lead by example and increase zero waste procurement in City government and the school district.
4
Formally announce your intention to develop and implement a program to end littering and dumping by 2028 as one of the priorities of your administration and produce a graduated plan to eliminate dumping in Philadelphia by 2028 that incorporates four components: prevention, abatement, enforcement and education/outreach.
- Reestablish the city-wide litter index.
- Direct the Managing Director’s Office to recentralize illegal dumping enforcement coordination across departments.
5
Mandate all departments under the oversight of the Mayor’s Office of Zero Waste to use data and outreach to regain public trust in how the city manages materials by partnering with communities and holding departments accountable for transparency of data and outreach.