Driving Zero Waste at District Facilities
The Department of General Services (DGS), Sustainability and Energy Division (SE), plays a critical role in advancing the District’s goal of achieving zero waste by 2032. DGS-SE oversees waste collection services for DC government facilities, ensuring the proper disposal of municipal solid waste and recyclables at regional processing facilities.
In partnership with sister agencies and strategic waste hauling services, we are creating a robust system that prioritizes sustainability at every step.
Enabling Sustainable Waste Management
DGS-SE procures and manages waste hauling services for all District agencies, as well as select independent agencies such as the DC Public Library, under the purview of the Executive Office of the Mayor. While the DGS-SE zero waste team facilitates these services, it is the responsibility of sister agencies to ensure materials are sorted properly into designated streams for recycling and waste.
This collaboration is essential to meeting the ambitious targets outlined in the Mayor’s Sustainable DC Plan, which include:
- Achieving an 80% waste diversion rate by 2032.
- Reducing overall waste generation by 15% from 2012 levels.
- Reusing 20% of all waste produced in the District.
- Lowering greenhouse gas emissions by 1.38 million metric tons annually.
Resources for Effective Wase Diversion
To support proper sorting and compliance with waste diversion goals, DGS provides the following tools:
- Recycling Guidance: Review the Mayor’s List of Recyclables and Compostables to ensure materials are correctly sorted.
- Service Schedules: Check the Waste Hauling Service Schedules to determine the waste-hauling schedule for DGS-managed facilities (Fall 2024 update coming soon).
Strengthening Our Shared Responsibility
Achieving DC’s Zero Waste goals by 2032 is a collaborative effort. Agencies such as DC Public Schools (DCPS), DC Parks and Recreation (DPR), and the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) rely on DGS-SE's collection services to align their operations with the District’s sustainability objectives. While DGS-SE manages waste collection services for District government facilities, each agency take responsibility for correctly sorting waste into trash, recyclables, and compost (where available). Following the Mayor's List of Recyclables and Compostables ensures compliance with local laws and supports the District's broader sustainability goals. Agencies are encouraged to actively participate in training, leverage resources like clear signage, and engage their staff to foster a culture of stewardship. For guidance, explore the resources at Zero Waste DC.
For additional information, explore:
- Understanding Waste Management for DGS-Managed Facilities (2023 Flyer).
- Recycling and Waste Diversion in DC Public Schools.
For additional inquiries regarding waste, recycling, and organics collection services at DGS managed facilities, please contact [email protected]