Atlanta

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Environmental Services

Information on waste collection, recycling, and sustainability programs.

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Environmental Services in Atlanta, Georgia

Atlanta is a city that prioritizes sustainability and environmental stewardship, with a range of services and programs designed to manage waste, conserve water, and maintain public spaces. The city’s environmental services are primarily managed by the City of Atlanta Department of Public Works and the Department of Watershed Management, along with partnerships with private organizations and nonprofits.

1. Waste Management in Atlanta

a. Garbage Collection

  • Residential Trash Pickup: The City of Atlanta provides weekly curbside garbage collection for single-family homes and small multi-family residences (up to four units). Residents are issued a 96-gallon black garbage bin.
  • Cost: The cost for garbage collection is included in the city’s annual solid waste fee, which is typically around $307 per household (as of 2023). This fee also covers recycling and yard waste services.
  • Schedule: Collection days vary by neighborhood. You can check your collection schedule on the city’s website or by calling 311.

b. Recycling Services

  • Curbside Recycling: Atlanta offers single-stream recycling, meaning all recyclable materials can be placed in the same blue recycling bin provided by the city. Accepted items include:
    • Paper and cardboard
    • Plastics labeled #1-#7
    • Aluminum and steel cans
    • Glass bottles and jars
  • Non-Accepted Items: Plastic bags, Styrofoam, and food-contaminated items are not accepted.
  • Drop-Off Recycling: For items not accepted curbside (e.g., electronics, batteries), residents can use drop-off facilities like the Center for Hard to Recycle Materials (CHaRM).

c. Yard Waste and Bulk Waste

  • Yard Waste: Yard debris (e.g., leaves, grass clippings, branches) is collected weekly. Residents must place it in biodegradable paper bags or bundle branches for pickup.
  • Bulk Waste: Large items like furniture and appliances are collected by appointment. Residents are allowed 12 free bulk pickups per year.

d. Hazardous Waste Disposal

  • The city does not collect hazardous waste curbside. However, residents can dispose of items like paint, chemicals, and electronics at special events hosted by CHaRM or private organizations.

e. Key Organizations

  • CHaRM (Center for Hard to Recycle Materials): A nonprofit facility that accepts hard-to-recycle items, including electronics, paint, and Styrofoam. Located at 1110 Hill Street SE, Atlanta, GA 30315.
  • Keep Atlanta Beautiful Commission: Organizes community cleanups and recycling events.

2. Water Management in Atlanta

a. Water Supply and Billing

  • The City of Atlanta Department of Watershed Management oversees water supply, wastewater treatment, and stormwater management.
  • Water Rates: Water and sewer services are billed monthly. The average residential water bill is approximately $100-$150 per month, depending on usage.
  • Payment Options: Bills can be paid online, by phone, or in person at designated payment centers.

b. Water Conservation Programs

  • Atlanta has implemented several water conservation initiatives, including:
    • Rain Barrel Program: Residents can purchase discounted rain barrels to collect rainwater for outdoor use.
    • Toilet Rebate Program: Rebates are available for replacing old toilets with water-efficient models.
    • Fix-A-Leak Program: Free resources and workshops to help residents identify and fix household leaks.

c. Stormwater Management

  • Atlanta’s stormwater system is designed to prevent flooding and protect water quality. Residents pay a stormwater fee based on the impervious surface area of their property (e.g., driveways, roofs). The average fee is around $100 annually.
  • The city encourages the use of green infrastructure, such as rain gardens and permeable pavements, to manage stormwater.

d. Key Organizations

  • Chattahoochee Riverkeeper: A nonprofit dedicated to protecting the Chattahoochee River, Atlanta’s primary water source.
  • Westside Reservoir Park (Bellwood Quarry): A former quarry transformed into a reservoir to provide emergency water supply for the city.

3. Maintenance of Public Spaces

a. Street Cleaning and Litter Removal

  • The City of Atlanta conducts regular street sweeping and litter removal in high-traffic areas. Residents can report litter or illegal dumping through the ATL311 service.

b. Parks and Green Spaces

  • Atlanta is home to over 400 parks and green spaces, maintained by the Department of Parks and Recreation. Notable parks include:
    • Piedmont Park: A 200-acre urban park with walking trails, sports fields, and picnic areas.
    • Atlanta BeltLine: A multi-use trail and green space project that connects neighborhoods across the city.
  • Volunteer opportunities are available for residents to help with park cleanups and tree planting.

c. Tree Protection

  • Atlanta is known as the “City in a Forest” due to its extensive tree canopy. The city enforces strict tree protection ordinances, requiring permits for tree removal on private property. Violations can result in fines.

4. Procedures for Accessing Services

a. Setting Up Waste and Water Services

  • New residents can set up waste and water services by contacting the City of Atlanta’s Department of Public Works and Department of Watershed Management, respectively.
  • Required Information: Proof of residency (e.g., lease agreement, utility bill) and a government-issued ID.

b. Reporting Issues

  • Residents can report missed garbage pickups, water leaks, or other issues through the ATL311 system (available online, by phone, or via a mobile app).

c. Recycling and Disposal Events

  • Check the city’s website or follow organizations like CHaRM and Keep Atlanta Beautiful for announcements about special recycling and hazardous waste disposal events.

5. Estimated Costs for Environmental Services

| Service | Estimated Cost | |------------------------------|----------------------------------------| | Solid Waste Fee (Annual) | $307 | | Water and Sewer (Monthly) | $100-$150 | | Stormwater Fee (Annual) | $100 | | Bulk Waste Pickup | Free (up to 12 pickups per year) | | CHaRM Drop-Off Fees | Varies (e.g., $5 for electronics) | | Rain Barrel Program | $40-$50 per barrel |

6. Unique Considerations for Atlanta

  • Urban Heat Island Effect: Due to its dense urban development, Atlanta experiences higher temperatures than surrounding areas. The city is actively working to mitigate this through tree planting and green infrastructure projects.
  • Recycling Challenges: Contamination in recycling bins is a common issue. Residents are encouraged to “Recycle Right” by following the city’s guidelines.
  • Community Involvement: Atlanta has a strong culture of community engagement in environmental initiatives. Residents can participate in programs like Adopt-A-Stream, park cleanups, and tree planting events.

7. Notable Local Sites and Organizations

  • Southface Institute: A nonprofit promoting sustainable building practices and energy efficiency.
  • Atlanta Botanical Garden: A leader in conservation and environmental education.
  • Fernbank Museum of Natural History: Offers exhibits and programs on environmental science and sustainability.

By understanding and utilizing these services, residents and visitors can contribute to Atlanta’s environmental sustainability while enjoying the city’s vibrant urban and natural landscapes. Let me know if you need further details or assistance!