Mount Prospect Public Works earns sstainability award

The Mount Prospect Public Works Department recently received a 2018 Illinois Sustainability Award from the University of Illinois Sustainable Technology Center.

The award honors organizations for significant achievements in energy efficiency, waste reduction, pollution prevention and environmental programming.

In their application, the Mount Prospect Public Works Department stated that it "leads the region in innovative sustainability and effective environmental practices through several recycling programs, serving 13,595 single-family homes, 8,351 multifamily homes and 691 commercial properties.

"In 2017, the Village successfully diverted 35 percent of residents' waste from the landfill."

In 2018, Mount Prospect adopted an organics recycling program, allowing the addition of compostable organic material into residents' yard waste. They are only the third municipality in the Chicago metro area to implement a weekly curbside textile pick up and recycling program.

Equally important, Mount Prospect residents have access to various drop-off recycling options, including batteries, light bulbs, pharmaceuticals, mercury thermometers, thermostats and wall switches, sharps, and Christmas lights.

Seasonally, curbside leaf collection services, on-site electronic recycling drop-off, Christmas tree collections and pumpkin recycling events take place. An on-site document shredding event is held on an annual basis.

"It was a true honor for the village to receive this award," said Mayor Arlene Juracek. "It was earned through the hard work of our Public Works Department, as well as everyone in the village who utilizes these recycling programs - whether it's pumpkins, plastic bags, or clothing - it all makes a difference in reducing the amount of waste our community sends to the landfill," Juracek said.

The mayor also commended Public Works Director Sean Dorsey and his staff, residents and the board for supporting the numerous recycling programs.

"The Mount Prospect Public Works Department strives to be a leader in new initiatives that exceed environmental standards and expectations," said Dorsey.

"We implement projects with an eye toward creating the maximum environmental impact, while sustaining a healthy growing economy and providing excellent community outreach. By being resourceful and involving our residents in the effort, we are making the entire community more sustainable."

Since 1987, ISTC has presented Sustainability Awards to organizations in Illinois that have demonstrated a commitment to environmental excellence through outstanding and innovative sustainability practices.

More information about the ISTC and the Sustainability Awards is available at www.istc.illinois.edu.

More information about the Mount Prospect Public Works Department and the recycling programs it offers to residents is available at www.mountprospect.org/publicworks.