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District Joins Responsible Flushing Alliance in Celebrating First #FlushSmart Day

06/30/2022

Today the Responsible Flushing Alliance (RFA) announced that July 1 is officially #FlushSmart day, dedicated to practicing smart flushing habits by preventing non-flushable materials from entering our wastewater systems. Downers Grove Sanitary District recognizes the observance and joins RFA in promoting smart flushing habits to help influence consumer behavior for the benefit of wastewater infrastructure and the environment.

The announcement coincides with the enactment of a law that requires the “Do Not Flush” symbol to be placed on the packaging of wipes products that could pose a danger for creating clogs, including baby wipes and cleaning wipes.

“Local governments across the country spend an estimated $440 million in a year removing clogs caused by improperly flushed single-use wipes products. Downers Grove Sanitary District is no exception,” said District General Manager Amy Underwood. “We hear from customers all the time – they want to help the environment, but don’t know where to start. Properly reading package labeling, looking for the ‘Do Not Flush’ symbol, and disposing non-flushable products in the trash can is an easy way to help our community and our planet at the same time.”

The RFA and it’s #FlushSmart campaign advocate for consumers to practice responsible flushing habits to protect wastewater infrastructure across Illinois. By improperly disposing of non-flushable products, clogs can develop in family homes and community wastewater systems that waste consumer earnings and city/municipal dollars. These products can congeal with fats, oils, and grease (FOGs) to create concrete-like masses known as fatbergs. The negative results can include sewer backups and overflows, contamination of the environment and water supply, and infrastructure damage at wastewater facilities.

“We are pioneering this effort by creating a first-of-its kind educational initiative to fix a very simple but concerning problem,” said RFA President Lara Wyss. “Nearly 60% of consumers indicated in a 2021 survey that they have disposed of something non-flushable in the toilet during the previous year. We are hopeful that the #FlushSmart campaign will reverse this disastrous trend we’re seeing in our wastewater systems.”

For more information about using #FlushSmart habits, go to https://flushsmart.org for access to free educational and informational materials. Or contact the Responsible Flushing Alliance at info@flushsmart.org.

Sewer Problems? Call (630) 969-0664
Our technicians are available at all hours to help you.

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2710 Curtiss Street
P.O. Box 1412
Downers Grove, Illinois 60515-0703

Phone: (630) 969-0664
Fax: (630) 969-0827

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