Greensboro set to begin final year of current loose leaf collection program

The city of Greensboro will begin the last year of its current loose leaf collection program in the coming weeks.

There are two scheduled collection periods. Leaves that are curbside by Nov. 6 will be picked up by late December. The second collection period runs between early January and February.

In August, the city council voted to eliminate the use of plastic bags for yard waste and end vacuum leaf collection starting in 2024. Councilmember Marikay Abuzuaiter said at the time the change would save money and make Greensboro cleaner and more environmentally safe.

"Plastic bags of leaves will not have to be cut open individually, and hiring more temp staff for that," she said. "Plus that is dangerous work."

According to the city, the changes will save $10 million over 15 years.

Residents will be provided with a collection container for leaves in 2024. They can purchase a second bin or use biodegradable paper bags for additional yard waste.

The current loose leaf collection schedule may change due to inclement weather.