Topic: Trash and Litter
Is My Recycling Being … Recycled?
Philadelphians' skepticism about the City’s waste policies has led to an abysmal recycling rate. Here’s what really happens after you put out your blue bin — and how the City could do more
By Courtney DuChene
Earth Day Philadelphia Guide
More than 50 years after the holiday began, there are more reasons — and more ways — than ever to combat climate change, right here in Philly
By Rosamelia Lara Sanchez, Christina Griffith and Lauren McCutcheon
Ideas We Should Steal: Manufacturers Paying for Recyclable Waste
In California, Colorado and other states, Extended Producer Responsibility laws help fund recycling efforts in underserved communities. Could a similar rule improve Philadelphia's trash problem?
By Courtney DuChene
Did Mayor Parker Get Cleaning Basics … Wrong?
The City’s former Litter Czar on how Mayor Parker’s proposed cleaning plan falls short of what Philthadelphia really needs
By Nicolas Esposito
Guest Commentary: The Ugly Opportunity Lurking Beneath City Hall
Mayor Parker wants to “clean and green” the city? A longtime Philadelphia journalist knows just where she can start
By Linn Washington Jr.
How to Clean and Green Philly, For Real
The City’s former Litter Czar gives Mayor Parker mixed reviews on her cleaning and greening agenda so far — and offers ways to step it up
By Nicolas Esposito
Three Quick Wins for Cherelle Parker
Here’s how our new mayor can make friends with her constituents right quick
By Roxanne Patel Shepelavy
Citizen of the Year 2023 Awards: Michelle Belser
The Citizen’s 2023 Block Captain of the Year gets her neighbors to vote in record numbers, and makes sure the block isn’t just clean — it’s beautiful.
By Natalie Pompilio