Conservation
Sustainability in SMP
We’re seeing green. Your park district prioritizes a sustainable future for us all. Inside Summit Metro Parks, we’re working to improve sustainable practices and share ways our visitors can, too.
Sustainable Actions
As careful stewards, we’re constantly working toward new sustainable practices to save taxpayers money and reduce our ecological footprint. Explore some highlights of recent “green” efforts throughout SMP.
Initiatives
See why conservation is at the forefront of our mission.
Composting
Summit Metro Parks has partnered with Rubber City Reuse to bring community composting bins to Firestone Metro Park (Tuscarawas Meadows Area) and Goodyear Heights Metro Park (Main Entrance). Bins will be picked up and replaced at least once a week, ready for visitors to refill with the following compostable items:
- Fruits and vegetables (remove produce stickers)
- Meat, bones, seafood, shellfish and egg shells
- Bread, pasta, grains, legumes and nuts
- Dairy products (limit liquids)
- Leftovers and spoiled food
- Coffee grounds, filters and tea bags (remove metal staples)
- Paper napkins (with no chemicals) and BPI-certified products, including bags, cups, cutlery and packaging
Please only drop off non-bagged items unless the bag is BPI-certified. Do not include trash, yard waste, oil or shortening, plastic bags, plastic foam, twist ties or recyclables (plastic, glass, paper, cardboard, metal or cans).
E-Waste Recycling
Annually more than 10,000 pounds of e-waste are recycled through Summit e-Waste Recycling Solutions bins located throughout the park district. Drop off your e-waste (including old cords, cables, monitors, laptops, Christmas lights, and batteries) at bins located in the following areas:
SMP Green Team
The park district’s staff-led Green Team has been making strides to improve our organization’s sustainable practices. Some highlights include hosting limited-waste events with fully compostable or recyclable items. Composting was available at six events in 2023 and a composting program was launched at the headquarters building.
Maintenance staff have also piloted battery-operated items versus gas tools.
Want to know more?
Attend a sustainability program
Explore our programs and events listing for opportunities to learn how to go green and become more sustainable at home.