Old Tire Collections Result in Environmental Award for Norman

An emphasis on the collection of old tires has led to the City of Norman being honored by the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality and Keep Oklahoma Beautiful as a “Clean Community.”

As reported by the Norman Transcript, the two agencies made the decision based on Norman’s involvement in tire collection events. Norman got the highest award, Level 1—Scissortail Flycatcher.

 

“To be nominated for this award, the main criteria is tire collection events,” said Environmental Services Coordinator Deb Smith. “Since 2010, we collected upwards of 11,000 tires. We also do public education on environmental topics, promote sustainable lawn care, promote rainwater collection and we have a recycling program.”

Several city departments were involved in the tire collection effort.  Parks, stormwater, sanitation, environmental services and the Environmental Control Advisory Board took part.

The city recently held an annual Hazardous Waste event and collected 100,000 pounds of chemicals along with 36,000 pounds of electronics.

The city also accepts tires throughout the year at the transfer station. City leaders said what really helped the city win the honor was its special events like OU’s annual Big event where old tires and other trash were removed from watersheds.