During the recent Staunton City Council meeting on April 24, 2025, a resident raised significant concerns regarding the city's new trash system, particularly its impact on the environment. The resident, an 86-year-old woman, expressed frustration over the requirement to place yard waste in plastic bags, arguing that this practice contradicts efforts to reduce plastic pollution.

She highlighted that while separating yard waste from kitchen trash is beneficial, using plastic bags for yard waste undermines these environmental goals. The resident noted that yard waste decomposes more quickly than plastic, which has a long lifespan in landfills. This contradiction poses a challenge for residents who wish to contribute positively to environmental efforts.

Additionally, the resident shared her personal struggle with managing the larger trash bins required by the new system, emphasizing that the current setup is not user-friendly for elderly citizens. Her comments reflect a broader concern about accessibility and practicality in waste management systems, particularly for vulnerable populations.

The discussion underscores the need for the city to consider alternative solutions that align with environmental goals while also accommodating the needs of all residents. As Staunton moves forward with its waste management policies, the council may need to explore options that reduce plastic use and enhance accessibility for seniors and others facing similar challenges.