Successful Pollution Prevention? Well-run Sanitation is Key

Originally presented at StormCon 2025 in Orlando, Florida.

Credits: 1.0 PDH | 0.1 CEU | Approved for all Envirocert International, Inc. (ECI) Certifications: Approval #PDH-0186

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Modern cities are developed with stormwater compliance already in place in their development requirements. With a designed stormwater treatment train to capture the first flush, as well as best management practices to address the low-hanging fruit. The question is how can cities with older infrastructure meet pollution prevention requirements. One solution is changing the solid waste program. The challenges of fugitive trash will continue to create a stormwater pollution nightmare. In a non-scientific study, comparing a few select cities and processes, the most robust systems show that standardized storage and transportation systems that protect solid waste from varmints and allow for efficient collection and disposal. Cities, such as Baltimore, still struggle with trash bags on the ground and have built elaborate storm system structures to stop the flow, while cities with more stringent rules and systems, such as Boston, have found the solution by requiring standardized storage of waste by business. From residential and commercial collection requirements to accessibility of trash services for sidewalk traffic, the City of Buckeye has implemented solutions and found effective processes for solid waste pollution prevention. Wherever solid waste is not contained, stormwater pollution remains a problem.