County Launches First-in-Nation Compostable Trash Dispenser Initiative at Parks and Beaches*

Residents and visitors to local parks, preserves, and beaches now have a new tool to help keep the environment clean, thanks to a groundbreaking initiative. Compostable trash dispensers have been installed at select locations across the county as part of a partnership with the Florida-based Be a Better Human Project.

This first-of-its-kind program aims to encourage people to take responsibility for cleaning up their own waste, offering convenient and eco-friendly options for disposing of trash before leaving these public spaces. The Be a Better Human Project, founded by environmental advocate Tom Holland, emphasizes the value of voluntary labor in environmental conservation.

According to research cited by the project, voluntary efforts to clean public areas are 86% more effective than relying on paid employees. This approach, combined with the use of compostable bags, is expected to reduce overall waste management costs in the long term.

County officials are closely monitoring the initiative’s progress, assessing its impact on reducing litter in public spaces. If successful, the program will be expanded to include additional parks, preserves, and beaches. With these efforts, the county hopes to enhance environmental stewardship and reduce the burden on local waste management services.