Leading by Example: WPKND Reduces Waste with Support from Cuyahoga County Solid Waste District

If you’ve visited WPKND’s new office, you might have noticed our new trash, recycling, and compost bins. WPKND is proud to share the successful launch of its comprehensive waste reduction program, made possible by the generous support of the Cuyahoga County Solid Waste District and their Waste Reduction Grant. The Cuyahoga County Solid Waste District is the public agency responsible for promoting environmentally sustainable practices across Cuyahoga County, providing resources, education, and funding to reduce waste and increase recycling. Their investment in WPKND has allowed us to put our sustainability goals into practice in meaningful ways. 

This grant helped us actualize key objectives in our organizational strategic plan, which calls for reducing our environmental impact, modeling sustainable practices, and creating greener community spaces. With this support, we have been able to extend our commitment to sustainability beyond words, embedding it into the daily operations of our office, our programming, and our neighborhood presence. 

With funding from the grant, all tenants in WPKND’s building now have access to recycling bins, necessary signage, and instructions to encourage proper sorting and reduce contamination. The Kamm’s Corners Farmers Market also added rolling recycling bins alongside existing landfill bins, making it easier for shoppers and vendors to responsibly dispose of waste. 

WPKND also transformed its new first-floor office and community room into a model of sustainable practices. Reusable plates, cups, bowls, utensils, pitchers, and coffee carafes have replaced disposable items, supported by a new dishwasher that makes cleaning quick and efficient. Groups using the community space uphold the organization’s single-use item policy, helping extend sustainability practices to all visitors. Additional upgrades include a water bottle filling station and eco-friendly hand dryers in all restrooms, reducing plastic bottle use and paper waste. 

Thanks to the support of the Cuyahoga County Solid Waste District, WPKND is proud to lead by example, demonstrating how small changes in office and community practices can create a cleaner, greener West Park for all residents and visitors.