 In September, the City of Iowa City launched Project Cleanup, a new volunteer-driven program aimed at supporting community-led litter removal efforts across the city. The initiative encourages residents to help keep neighborhoods and walking routes clean and beautiful.
Those interested in participating can stop by either the Iowa City Public Library, City Hall, the Senior Center, or Mercer Park Aquatic Center to pick up a free Project Cleanup Kit. Each kit includes:
- One pair of reusable gloves
- One 16-gallon orange garbage bag
- An instruction sheet with safety and disposal tips
Volunteers are encouraged to clean up litter in public spaces or along familiar routes, but are reminded to obtain permission before entering private property.
After completing a cleanup, volunteers can place their filled orange bags next to their waste receptacle on their regular curbside collection day. No $2.50 sticker is required for disposal of these Project Cleanup bags when used for volunteer litter collection.
To help track the program’s impact, cleanup leaders are encouraged to visit icgov.org/projectcleanup and complete a short survey. The form asks for basic details about the cleanup, including location and number of bags collected.
For more information or to get involved, visit icgov.org/projectcleanup.
 The next Iowa City Repair Cafe will take place from 9 am-1 pm on October 18 at the Eastside Recycling Center in Iowa City. Volunteers will be available to help you fix your clothes, computers, small appliances and electronics, and more. Anyone interested in volunteering their skills can sign up at www.linkolla.com/icrepair1018. Follow us on Facebook or Instagram for more updates!
 James McCoy
Iowa City Climate Advocates Member
 How do you take climate action?
Working with Iowa City Climate Advocates is a meaningful way to address climate change for me. Our local group acts through Citizen’s Climate Lobby to advocate for federal climate legislation; keeping the issue in front of our legislators. At times when our government is not receptive to addressing climate change, our chapter can act locally as with our Carbon Offsets for Habitat Solar Project.
Why is it important to take climate action?
We are at a critical time in our history when we have the opportunity to avoid the worst effects of climate change. What we do individually and collectively will determine our climate future.
What can others do to take climate action?
If you want to offset carbon emissions from a plane flight or other carbon intensive activity, go to habitatsolar.org where you can offset the CO2 emissions for 22 cents per kilogram. Not only will you make your activity carbon neutral; you will also be helping a low-income family with their energy bills. This program, started in May 2025, has already generated over $43,000 for solar installations on Habitat homes!
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