Annual Report Improving the Environment T he City of Fort Worth has always taken an active role in creating and maintaining a healthy environment for its citizens. But increased demand for services and escalating environmental regulations have created challenges for the city. To address current needs and plan for those that will inevitably arise, Fort Worth has successfully blended strong professional planning with active citizen and business involvement to create quality environmental programs. A prime example of public involvement is the Solid Waste Management Citizens Advisory Committee. The committee identified solid waste issues and avenues available and practicable for addressing the situation.
Employees fuel city vehicles with propane to reduce ozone pollution and save money.
Recycling Statistics Chart Annually, residences and businesses generate 202,633 tons of solid waste. Rising collection and disposal costs and the lack of landfill space are forcing the city to seek collection and hauling methods that are more cost-efficient than the current twice a week garbage service and related collections. Committee-recommended strategies include enhanced educational programs, automated collection vehicles, commercial recycling and composting promotions, establishment of a separate yard waste program and the construction of a household hazardous waste collection center. Small pilot programs will be used to determine which strategies are best for Fort Worth. When complete, the system no longer will risk sewage overflows because stormwater runoff leaks into the sanitary sewer system.