In case you missed it: Thoughtful, newsworthy comments from industry professionals, consumers, and legislators.
“Part of being a good neighbor involves listening, which we have done well and will continue to do.”
— Drew Isenhour, area president of Republic Services in Wayne County, GA, in a statement as reported by The Florida Times-Union. In an effort to mend relationships with the community, Republic withdrew contentious, pending permit applications to dispose of coal ash at the Broadhurst Environmental Landfill.
"Developers have to take a leap of faith that this will work."
— Juliette Spertus, co-founder of ClosedLoops, in an interview with Waste Dive regarding the firm's plans to bring a pneumatic waste collection system to the High Line park corridor in Manhattan. While the resources are available to bring the plans to life, Spertus notes that the most difficult task is convincing stakeholders to come on board.
"This is a clear choice for me, I don’t expect to win this ... It’s not just competition, it’s monopoly."
— Las Vegas Councilwoman Lois Tarkanian on voting against a long-term exclusive franchise agreement with Republic Services, as reported by the Las Vegas Review-Journal. While Tarkanian and one other councilmember opposed the decision, the council still OK'd the agreement in a 5-2 vote.
"We have to stop building cities as if everyone is 30 years old and athletic."
— Gil Penalosa, founder of 8 80 Cities, on how he believes cities can be made accessible and livable for the entire age spectrum, as reported by Smart Cities Dive. The new Smart Cities publication takes a look at how urban areas can be built with sustainability in mind, touching on topics like zero waste initiatives and emissions regulations.
"Millennials are ready to make a difference and willing to turn down jobs that don't align with their beliefs."
— Anna Whitton, vice president of marketing for Rubbermaid Commercial Products, in a press release regarding a study that found two in three millennials would be willing to give up social media for a week if everyone at their company recycled. The study also found that nine in 10 millennials say it's important to work for a sustainable company.
