Development News for Needham, Massachusetts

Successful 'Fix It Clinic' and New Waste Diversion Programs Highlighted

The committee discussed the success of the 'Fix It Clinic' held on April 11th, which partnered RTS, the sustainability manager, and the library. The event had 41 attendees and successfully repaired 15 items, primarily lamps. Feedback indicated a desire for the event to occur twice a year, with RTS, sustainability, and the library exploring options to continue the program. Discussions also touched on potential future locations and formats, such as incorporating a bike repair station or utilizing the senior center. The committee also initiated a food waste diversion program at the Public Safety Administration Building, using grant funds for containers and liners, which diverted an estimated 36 pounds of food waste in its first month. Furthermore, the committee reviewed the 'Food Recovery Table' program at Needham Public Schools, designed to recover unopened, non-refrigerated packaged food and whole fruit, aiming to instill waste sorting habits in students.