Environment

Organic waste collection coming to all Bellingham single-family households in 2025 

Person adding food scraps to a green bin with yellow lid
Starting in early 2025, all single-family homes in Bellingham will begin receiving organic waste collection as part of their standard waste service. Adding this service allows Bellingham to reduce waste, lower climate emissions and meet future statewide requirements. Through this service, organic waste such as food scraps, food-soiled papers, yard waste and approved compostable packaging is collected by Sanitary Service Company (SSC) and composted locally into a nutrient-rich soil amendment. Customers already receiving this service year-round will not be affected by the change.

City investigating sources of stormwater contaminants entering Bellingham Bay 

Sunsetting over marine waters with sailboat anchored in distance and large dock on the side
We are investigating high bacteria levels detected in stormwater near South Boulevard Park. While sources are unknown, and it may end up being many small sources, we're committed to clean water. Help us out: dispose of pet waste properly and report any pollution concerns to 360-778-7979 or cob.org/fix. Help keep our bay healthy!

City Council approves emergency landmark tree protections 

Looking up the side of a large evergreen tree.
To prevent the removal of exceptional trees in anticipation of new regulations, the Bellingham City Council enacted an Emergency Landmark Tree Ordinance on May 20, 2024. It took effect immediately upon approval. This ordinance protects trees that are considered "landmark trees" - the largest, most significant trees in Bellingham - establishes a landmark tree inventory and a permitting process for removal, and establishes a larger fine for illegal removal. 
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