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Citizens Academy presents recycling outreach and glass-recycling proposals to city council
Summary
Two Citizens Academy groups presented outreach ideas and a glass-recycling proposal that would divert an estimated 3,900 tons of glass per year from local landfills; presenters suggested partnering with schools, civic groups and Anderson County or contracting with a vendor for local drop-off sites.
Two Citizens Academy groups presented projects to Oak Ridge City Council proposing ways to boost recycling participation and reinstate glass recycling.
The education group (presenter Anne Magal) focused on outreach and behavior-change strategies for residents who may be unfamiliar with current recycling rules, recommending school competitions, social-media content (short videos/TikTok), bill inserts and website updates to reach residents who do not use digital channels. The group asked the city to help share educational materials and suggested presenting at the school board.
The best-practices group presented a glass-recycling proposal. Presenter Larry Curran said the city has not had glass recycling since about 2017 and estimated Oak Ridge sends roughly 3,900 tons of glass a year to landfills. He described two lower-cost and higher-investment options: partner with Anderson County and Recycling Services LLC to host a glass drop-off at a county facility, or contract with a vendor to place small drop-off containers at convenience centers and commercial collection points. Curran cited Roane County’s recent glass program and a Recycling Services LLC operation in Nashville as practical models.
Council members praised the Citizens Academy and asked staff to help publicize the recommendations via bill inserts and the city website. Staff and council encouraged the groups to present to the school board and to coordinate with the city’s information specialist for broader outreach.
Next steps: Staff will consider ways to amplify outreach materials and discuss partnership options with Anderson County and potential vendors; the Citizens Academy groups will be sent a survey and may present to other local bodies.
