ST. LOUIS – In August, the City of St. Louis officially ended alley recycling, saying it was due to rising costs and inefficiency. But while alley recycling has ended for now, efforts to restore and improve it are already underway.
Following community feedback, the city has accepted a proposal to establish a Recycling Task Force, which will bring together experts and residents to research and recommend practical ways to strengthen the city’s recycling system.
Blue alley dumpsters will now serve as additional trash receptacles, while residents are encouraged to use one of the 25 drop-off recycling sites across the city. That number is expected to grow, with at least 13 more sites planned to ensure every St. Louisan has a location within a mile of their home.
“St. Louisans deserve a system that actually works,” said Mayor Cara Spencer when announcing the recycling suspension. “By shifting resources to trash collection, we’re addressing immediate needs — but we’re also committed to finding smarter, more effective solutions.”
Applications to join the Recycling Task Force are now open through Oct. 10.
This approval marks the first step toward restoring what many some may see as a basic service. Advocates credit community calls, emails, and comments for ensuring the city didn’t simply walk away from recycling, but instead committed to rethinking it.
Want more insights? Join Working Title - our career elevating newsletter and get the future of work delivered weekly.
