I convened a public oversight roundtable today to discuss the role of the Department of Public Works in the implementation of the Zero Waste Plan. I and my Committee wanted to learn from the agency about the measures it has implemented, priorities for the upcoming year, its timeline for the plan, and what funding or additional legislation would enable DPW to fulfill its responsibilities under the plan.  

The release of the Zero Waste Plan in February was a milestone in our work toward ensuring that our city is clean and livable. We now have to work together so that our vision of a stronger, more equitable, and sustainable District lives not only on paper, but comes to fruition in the actions of the 32 District agencies and regional partners tasked with the shared responsibility of implementing this plan. 

D.C. is a leader on air quality and on water quality. I am committed to supporting waste diversion efforts that continue our record of environmental initiative. I am focused on composting and recycling in particular as part of that effort. 

To achieve our goal – diverting 80 percent of waste from landfills and incinerators by 2040 – we need bold action. We currently generate almost nine pounds of solid waste per resident each day, and our citywide solid waste stream is on track to reach nearly 1.4 million tons annually by 2038. 

With bold action will come great reward. From enhancing the health of our rivers, to decreasing greenhouse gas emissions, to curbing illegal dumping, to mitigating the risk of climate change, the environmental benefits will be substantial.  

This is particularly important for Black communities, communities of color, and low-income communities, which disproportionately bear the weight of the District’s solid waste management practices. This burden perpetuates many harms, including, for example, the direct health impact of exposure to toxins caused by proximity to the city’s waste management facilities.  

We have to get this right. And we have to act now.