Mayor Slay Signs New Executive Order on Earth Day to Increase Sustainability Measures

Mayor Francis Slay has signed Executive Order No. 52, which increases sustainability measures both within City government and at City-permitted events

"Earth Day 2015 is a good day to renew our commitment as a city and as a government to the vision of a sustainable future and to make deliberate progress toward the goals outlined in our Sustainability Plan," Mayor Francis Slay said.

The Mayor's Executive Order does three things:

1. Requires recycling at all City-operated facilities;
2. Mandates the use of green cleaning supplies and sustainable products in City-operated facilities; and,
3. Requires recycling at City-permitted special events.

All facilities operated by the City of St. Louis shall offer recycling through single-stream recycling programs, similar to what is offered throughout the City for residential collection. Recycling, waste minimization, and the responsible use of products are included in several objectives from the City of St. Louis Sustainability Plan (pp. 43, 46, 85, 99, 142, 175-78, 190, 212-214).

The City is committed to providing safe and healthy facilities for its employees and visitors;therefore, certified green cleaning products, which are designed to minimize negative impacts on health and the environment, will be used to the greatest extent possible. The Order also prohibits City departments from purchasing Styrofoam and non-compostable plastic utensils, cups, and bags.

The City also is committed to minimizing the environmental impact of its daily operations. So, City departments will begin purchasing more products with post-consumer recycled content, including paper and other office supplies. And, whenever possible, electronic equipment, such as appliances, computers, water coolers, etc., should meet "Energy Star" specifications.

The Executive Order also requires sustainability practices be implemented at special events held in the City of St. Louis. All events that receive a permit through the Office of Special Events must include a written recycling plan and refrain from using Styrofoam.

The measures will begin to fulfill items on the Mayor's Sustainability Action Plan, specifically:

• #5: Promote sustainability practices at all public arts and cultural events;
• #20: Have single-stream recycling facilities for 100% of City government buildings;and
• #22: Use green custodial cleaning supplies in 100% of City government facilities.

Executive Order 52 is effective immediately.

Documents

• Mayor Executive Order No. 52