Worcester DPW Commissioner John Westerling on Trash, Litter, and Zero Waste Plans

By-Hank Stolz

Photo-Radio Worcester

WORCESTER, MA-Worcester’s Department of Public Works Commissioner, John Westerling, joined the Talk of the Commonwealth for an in-depth look at the city’s intensified war on trash and litter.

One major step that’s already proven popular: Worcester waived all fees at the city’s bulk drop-off center for August — and residents have filled every available slot. “We’ve got 450 miles of roadway, which means we’ve got over 900 miles of curb line, and that’s very difficult for any one or two or six departments to handle,” Westerling explained, noting this “all hands on deck” approach has been a massive undertaking for the city.

Worcester’s once-cutting-edge “pay as you throw” trash system has drawn criticism in recent years, and Westerling says a consultant is now conducting a comprehensive “zero waste” study. The study, expected to wrap by the end of the year, will explore alternatives for both recycling bins and trash bags.

Another visible effort: the rollout of new “Woo Bins” along city streets to help fight litter. Westerling was quick to caution, however, that the bins are not a cure-all. “So these [Woo] Bins are not a panacea. They’re not going to take care of trash and litter in the city, but it gives people an option.”

The conversation also touched on the months ahead. As winter approaches, Worcester is already preparing with new technology and strategies for snow and ice removal.