Flanked by an array of new trash and recycling carts, Mayor David Bieter formally rolled out the new automated trash and no-sort recycling program. The new program, which the City has dubbed “Curb It,” provides carts for all residential trash disposal, offers simplified recycling, and encourages residents to curb waste by promoting the principles of reduce, reuse, and recycle.

“The Curb It program is an important part of a greener and more sustainable Boise,” said Mayor David Bieter. “With the introduction of no-sort recycling, we can all do our part to divert recyclable materials from the landfill and help curb waste.”

Bieter was joined by Public Works Director Neal Oldemeyer and Allied Waste of Idaho General Manager Dave Fisher. The officials explained the new program will help keep customer rates low and neighborhoods clean. They also stressed that the Curb It program offers residents flexibility in terms of different cart options. In addition, City officials believe the volume of recycled materials following the introduction of no-sort recycling may increase by up to 40 percent.

Starting June 22 and continuing through Sept. 4, residents who do not order otherwise will receive a standard, 95-gallon wheeled trash cart; households that currently recycle will also receive a standard, 95-gallon wheeled recycling cart. There will be no additional charge for either cart. Households needing non-standard carts can order the different sizes (48 and 65 gallon) online (www.CurbItBoise.org) or by speaking with a service specialist 24 hours by calling (208-327-8404).

Today’s kickoff marked the beginning of the ordering period. Residents will have more than three weeks (until May 22) to place their order. In addition to choosing non-standard carts, residents who do not currently recycle may place an order for a recycling cart (which will save them $4/month off their trash bill). Backyard compost bins are also being offered at a discounted rate, and with free delivery, for a limited time.

City residents are encouraged to look in their mail next week or go online for more information. People can also view the carts at Zoo Boise, Idaho IceWorld, City Hall and City Hall West, Boise Public Libraries, along with all Boise Zamzows, Capital City Market, the Boise Co-Op, and Albertsons stores at Five Mile and Overland and Parkcenter and Apple.

Curb It’s key features-automated collection and no-sort recycling-were recommendations made in 2008 as part of the City’s Solid Waste Strategic Plan, which was formulated by the solid waste citizen committee.