January 28, 2016

1 Min Read
Study: Aspen-Area Resident Trash Output Double National Average

Aspen Daily News

A study has found that Pitkin County residents produce more than nine pounds of trash each day, a figure that is far above the average amount nationwide.

A “wasteshed” study conducted last July and October by the city of Aspen and Pitkin County found that the average county resident produces 9.1 pounds of garbage compared to the national daily amount of 4.5 pounds.

According to a joint statement from the county and city, the goal of the study, which was conducted by Weaver Consultant Group and LBA Associates, is to “investigate ways to lengthen the life of the Pitkin County Landfill, protect the environment, and conserve resources.”

“It is important for us to know what items people are disposing of that could be recycled or composted,” said Liz O’Connell, senior environmental health specialist for the city, in a prepared statement. “When all waste gets buried in the landfill, it’s a lost opportunity to conserve resources and shortens the estimated 15 years left before the landfill is full.”

Continue reading at the Aspen Daily News

Stay in the Know - Subscribe to Our Newsletters
Join a network of more than 90,000 waste and recycling industry professionals. Get the latest news and insights straight to your inbox. Free.

You May Also Like