Utilities Newsletter
Nov/Dec 2024
Cheers to Zero Waste Holidays
Did you know that nationwide, between November and January, consumers throw away a million tons of extra garbage each week? Consider implementing these five zero-waste practices to avoid excess waste while still making holiday memories.
- Limit leftovers. Waste less food after big holiday meals by sending guests home with leftovers in reusable containers and storing leftovers for longer-lasting freshness. See more tips for reducing food waste at BellevueWA.gov/recycle-food-waste.
- Ditch disposables. Say no to single-use plastic straws, utensils, and water bottles. A few extra dishes can save tons of plastic waste from landfill.
- Flatten and recycle cardboard boxes in covered recycling carts. This saves space, keeps cardboard clean and dry, and ensures your boxes can be made into new products.
- Wrap with reusables. Save durable items like bags, boxes, and bows for second use. Make it a family game to find the most creative zero-waste wrapping!
- Remember to recycle when the holiday is over. Most wrapping paper can be recycled in your curbside cart. Many organizations offer holiday light recycling collections, and you can compost your holiday tree and other greenery.
See your local recycling guide and KingCounty.gov/green-holidays for more ways to enjoy a zero-waste winter holiday season.
Preserving Trees for a Healthy Environment
The City Council approved updates to Bellevue’s tree protection codes this summer to help safeguard our vital tree canopy, which plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of our watershed. Trees are essential not only to Bellevue’s identity but also to our environment—they filter pollutants, manage stormwater, and provide critical habitat for wildlife.
The updated tree code now requires property owners to obtain a permit before removing any significant or landmark tree. For larger developments, a new “tree credit” system has been introduced, encouraging developers to preserve or replace trees to maintain our community’s tree density. More details are available at BellevueWA.gov/development-services.
Don’t Drip and Drive
During the rainy season, it’s more important than ever to fix car leaks. When oil from your car leaks, the rain carries it into storm drains and straight into our creeks, rivers, and Puget Sound. Oil and other petroleum products are toxic to people, wildlife, and plants. Make sure to check your vehicle for leaks regularly to protect water quality, people, and wildlife. For more information about vehicle leaks, visit FixCarLeaks.org. For more overall car care tips that help protect water quality, visit PugetSoundStartsHere.org.
Need Help Paying Your Utility Bill?
Bellevue Utilities has several programs to help qualifying low-income residents and residents facing financial hardship. For information on qualifying and applying for these programs, visit BellevueWA.gov/utility-relief, or contact us at 425-452-5285 or utilityrelief@bellevuewa.gov.