Residential Programs
Chicago Conservation Corps (C3) is the environmental volunteer program of the City of Chicago’s Department of Environment, in collaboration with partners across the city. C3 recruits, trains, and supports a network of volunteers to improve the quality of life in our neighborhoods and schools through environmental service projects that protect our water, clean our air, restore our land and save energy.
C3 has three tracks: C3 Leaders are community members who receive training and resources to develop and lead environmental service projects in their neighborhoods. The Chicago Conservation Corps (C3) Student Clubs offer an opportunity for students and teachers to become environmental leaders in their schools. C3’s Explorer Track allows residents to get involved with short-term environmental volunteer opportunities and events throughout Chicago, with the help of partner organizations and C3 Leaders. For more information on C3, visit their website, email conservation@cityofchicago.org or call (312) 743-9283.
Chicago's Blue Cart Recycling Program will be fully implemented by the end of 2011. Residents who currently receive City of Chicago refuse service and who live in a single-family home or multi-unit building with four units or less will have an opportunity to participate in the program. Chicagoans who live outside a Blue Cart area and residents without City refuse service are encouraged to recycle using one of 16 recycling drop-boxes located throughout the City. The number of drop-boxes will double in 2008, ensuring that a majority of residents will reside within 1 mile of a recycling drop-box and therefore have access to the program. For more information on the program, call the Blue Cart Recycling Hotline at (312) 744-5702 or visit www.bluecartschicago.com.
Environmental Resource Events provide residents with the opportunity to properly dispose of household hazardous materials and unwanted computers and electronics at a location close to home. Events are typically held four times a year at various sites throughout the City. Residents may also purchase discounted rain barrels and compost bins for use at their homes. Call (312) 744-7606 for information on the next upcoming Environmental Resource Event.
The Household Chemicals & Computer Recycling Facility is the City’s permanent household hazardous waste collection facility. Residents can drop off computers and related components, cell phones, paints, cleaners and other hazardous materials for proper disposal and/or recycling, if appropriate. Located at 1150 N. North Branch (two blocks east of the Kennedy Expressway at Division Street), the facility is open Tuesdays from 7 a.m. – noon, Thursdays from 2 p.m. – 7 p.m., and the first Saturday of each month from 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. For more information, call 311 or visit the web page.
To learn about additional City programs and services, visit the City's website at www.cityofchicago.org.