Neighborhood Initiative Program

The award-winning Neighborhood Initiative Program began in 2004 with only three neighborhoods in Charleston County participating. It has now grown to over 290 neighborhoods with over 290 volunteers helping the County increase recycling rates.

Volunteers put out signs in a heavily-trafficked areas of their neighborhood a couple of days before the neighborhood's recycling pick-up day as a reminder to their neighbors.

The success of this program has been widespread. Recycling rates have increased from 27 percent to 51 percent in five years. More residents in Charleston County are aware of recycling because of seeing the reminder day signs in their neighborhood.
 

Becoming a volunteer

If you would like to help increase your neighborhood's recycling levels by becoming a Neighborhood Initiative Program Volunteer, contact the Charleston County Environmental Management Department at (843) 720-7111.