Trash Talkin’ project engages residents and expands audience

Beginning in April 2023, the Connecticut and Long Island public radio station WSHU launched the “Trash Talkin’ ” series, focused on the local impact of waste issues. Monthly meetings with community members, as well as engagement via the station’s website, Facebook page and a live blog are core pieces of the solutions-oriented editorial project. This approach, anchored in listening to people affected by or interested in questions about trash, has led to the production of dozens of stories, including from successful freedom of information requests instigated through collaboration with the public. The reporting led to the issue of waste becoming central in talking points around an electoral campaign for executive roles in Suffolk County, according to J.D. Allen, WSHU’s managing editor. This extensive community engagement has led to a growing audience composed of people who were previously unaware of the station’s existence and is being replicated across other projects pursued by the local NPR affiliate.