When a natural disaster such as a flood or hurricane hits an area, trash and waste management is generally not the first priority first-responders and municipal officials are giving thought to. However, severe weather can be responsible for generating tons of garbage and debris, including building and construction rubble, green waste such as downed trees, shrubs, and displaced soil and sand, personal and household belongings, and damaged vehicles. This excess waste material places an extra burden on the community struggling to deal with the disaster’s impact.
The type and amount of debris resulting from severe weather will vary based on geographic location and the nature of the storm, however, community leaders should be establishing disaster recovery plans before an event hits. When creating a disaster relief plan, it’s essential to include a debris management component. This will help to ensure that waste material can be effectively removed in a timely manner and lessen the impact on both the environment and families and businesses. In addition, having a set plan that accounts for collecting storm debris, recycling appropriate materials and disposing of those materials that cannot, will also help to reduce costs in an otherwise expensive clean-up.
Some benefits of establishing a municipal disaster waste recovery plan include:
- Reducing clean-up time post-disaster allowing families to return to their homes and businesses to re-open sooner.
- Reducing costs by not having to make rushed decisions when severe weather strikes or contracting with expensive, last-minute services providers.
- Reducing potential environmental and human hazards by having a plan to collect and safely remove toxic and hazardous wastes exposed due to a disaster.
WasteCare Wants You to Remember: Severe weather and natural disasters are something we’d prefer not to think about, but having a plan in place for waste removal and recycling during such times is essential for maintaining the well being of everyone who lives in the community. If your town hasn’t created such a plan, what are you waiting for? Delays will cost you and your tax-payers money!