Last week, the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) named Beech Grove one of the six “Clean Communities” in the state. Municipalities in Beech Grove and several other communities took part in a pilot program focused on improving environmental sustainability and community wellness through targeted projects.
At the annual kickoff meeting for the program, our city was honored for our achievements as participants. On average, our top-notch curbside recycling program collects around 38 tons per month. Because of our commitment to recycling, that keeps a potential 456 tons of trash out of landfills every year. Additionally, in the third year of our pilot program for reducing food waste, the city reclaimed over 137,000 pounds of food. Another aspect that landed us this recognition was our 18 years as a designated “Tree City USA,” a title earned from the Arbor Day Foundation for cities that meet certain criteria. Through our annual “Going Green in the Grove” event, we demonstrate our dedication to increasing tree cover by distributing trees to residents.
As a lifelong resident of the area, I am proud that the state recognized Beech Grove for our commitment to the wellbeing of our neighbors - a fact that everyone who lives here already knows. It is characteristics of our city like this that are attracting so many new residents. I am excited to continue our efforts to strengthen the economy and improve public health outcomes by keeping the community clean as we welcome new families to our neighborhoods.
Sincerely,
