The City of West Chicago received the Earth Flag and Water Quality Flag from DuPage County and SCARCE during the City Council meeting on Monday, April 20. DuPage County Stormwater Committee Chair Jim Zay, Environmental Committee Chair Saba Haider, SCARCE Founder Kay McKeen, and DuPage County Board members Melissa Martinez and Greg Schwarze presented the flags to the City.
The Earth Flag and Water Quality Flag recognize organizations that demonstrate leadership in sustainability and water protection through environmental training, conservation initiatives, recycling programs, and activities that improve local water quality.
Environmental Efforts in West Chicago
The recognition reflects ongoing environmental initiatives led by the City with instrumental support of the West Chicago Environmental Commission, community partners, and residents. Efforts highlighted as part of this recognition include:
Staff sustainability and environmental training provided through SCARCE- Annual Recycling Extravaganza event that divert materials from landfills
- Rain Barrel Sale Program promoting water conservation and stormwater management
- Adopt-A-Highway participation and community cleanup efforts that help protect local waterways
- Tree giveaways through Blooming Fest, helping plant trees throughout the community
- Pumpkin composting collection diverting pumpkins from landfills
- Cooking oil recycling program that prevent improper disposal into drains and waterways
- Holiday light collection diverting materials from landfills
- Native plantings and pollinator habitat improvements, including the monarch habitat at City Hall
- Community recycling and environmental education programs
In celebration of Earth Day, thank you to the West Chicago community for the collective efforts that contribute to continued environmental stewardship for our future generations!
