City of Salem and Salem State University to host a series of Zero Waste Events

Salem is set to make waves in sustainability as it proudly announces the hosting of its inaugural Zero Waste Event. The City of Salem and Salem State University are hosting a “Zero Waste Weekend” on Friday, March 22nd through Sunday, March 24th. FREE waste assessments for local businesses are also being held on Wednesday, March 20th, by appointment as part of this event. This initiative underscores the community's unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship and collaboration to build a more sustainable future.

“Ensuring a clean and vibrant community takes meaningful action from all of us,” said Mayor Dominick Pangallo, “Here in Salem, we’re dedicated to the work of sustainability and livability. I’m grateful to the City staff, volunteers, and our partners at Salem State University as we continue to advance efforts for a more sustainable, equitable, and resilient community for all. I encourage all in Salem community members to consider how to reduce waste, and to participate in these events to work toward that shared goal.”

The Zero Waste Weekend, organized by the City of Salem and Salem State University, aims to help residents and students learn to minimize waste and embrace sustainable practices.

Key features of the event include:

• Wednesday March 20th Free Waste Assessments for local businesses. Assessments take about 30-45 min and will include a summary report and ongoing customized guidance to help you start or improve waste reduction programs. Fill out the registration form here to get on the schedule: https://recyclingworksma.com/getassistance/

• Friday, March 22nd, 10:00 AM - 1:30 PM: Salem State University Zero Waste Swap
  • Ellison Campus Center (ECC) Alumni Plaza
  • Rain Location: ECC Martin Luther King, Jr. room)
  • Drop items off at ECC lobby from 12:30 – 6:00 pm on Thursday March 21st or bring items to the event on Friday. Shop the Swap for clothes, shoes, books, office supplies, dorm décor and small dorm room items. Everything will be free! Open to the public.

• Friday, March 22nd: Salem Public Schools – Various activities (not open to the public)

• Saturday March 23rd:
  • 8:00AM -12:00PM, Salem High School, 77 Willson Street: E-Waste Recycling Drive through event. Recycle anything with a plug (some fees apply).
  • 8:00AM -12:00PM, Horace Mann Laboratory School, 79 Willson Street: FREE Document Shredding Drive through event. Paper documents ONLY.
  • 10:00AM - 1:00PM, Community Life Center, 401 Bridge Street: SalemRecycles Free Book Swap & TerraCycle Collection

• Sunday March 24th:
  • 10:00AM - 12:00PM, Gallows Hill Park: Beautification Committee & Keep Salem Beautiful Litter Cleanup (Register here: https://forms.gle/akxQKBXXYM5rWG6z7)

"We are thrilled to host the first-ever Zero Waste Event in our community," said Janelle Rolke, Waste Reduction Coordinator for the City of Salem. "This event serves as a testament to our collective dedication to sustainability and highlights the positive impact that individuals and communities can have on the environment through conscious decision-making and collaboration."

Events are happening around Salem on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, March 22nd through 24th.  All members of the community are encouraged to attend and participate.

For more information about the Zero Waste Event and how to get involved, please visit https://www.greensalem.com or reach out to the contacts listed here.