Sustainablity scheme

Recent trends have led cities all over the United States toward an eco-friendly, sustainable future.  For those of you that don't know what sustainability is, a lay man's definition is the ability to meet our own needs and desires for resources without compromising the same ability for future generations.  But exactly how do we become a "sustainable" society?  Well, recycling is probably a good start.

For many, this is far easier said than done.  After all, it is habit to toss papers and plastics in the trash assuming it will sort itself out somewhere down the line. The City of La Crosse is taking steps to better the recycling program, but there are still recurring flaws that are popping up, especially in off-campus student housing.  According to Brandon Shea, La Crosse's Recycling Program Director, the monthly cost of recycling amounts to a whopping $1.02 per residence and most landlords cover this cost when they pay taxes on their properties.

However, a lesser known fact is that the city only provides services for buildings with four or less units.  So those of you living in apartment buildings with five plus units, don't expect them to come by and pick it up any time soon. Your waste is likely contracted to Harter's or another waste management company and there's a good chance that your landlord doesn't even pay for recycling.

We know the city's intentions are just.  According to Shea, the city is in the process of conducting inspections to maintain the integrity of the program.  Essentially, they do this to make sure that residences are in "compliance" with specific regulations, which most would have no way of knowing.  "I am not sure what I am doing wrong, but every scheduled pick up day my recycling containers are left untouched," said Corey Mukai, a UW-La Crosse student who lives in off-campus student housing.

The general sentiment in the vicinity of campus is that no one really knows what will be picked up and when it will be picked up.  Students in off-campus housing are resorting to hauling their recycling to campus, which isn't even legal.  There is no reason for students to have to go on "recon" missions just to dispose of their recyclables when tax money supports the program in the first place.  

Although it is clear that the recycling program is a work in progress, there is reason for optimism.  More and more people are starting to gain consciousness about sustainability measures in the city. There is a positive vibe in the city, and residents should know that their input is vital for the progression of the program.