Collier County has reached a 78 percent recycling rate and now ranks second in the state among 67 counties. One of only three counties to surpass the 75 percent mark set by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP), the county recycled approximately 1.3 million tons of the 1.7 million tons of waste collected in 2022 according to the FDEP. This is the second time Collier County has reached the statewide goal and represents an increase of three percentage points over the previous year.
“Our exceptional recycling rate is possible because of our residents, visitors and businesses who are dedicated to recycling and preserving our paradise each and every day,” said Solid and Hazardous Waste Management Director Kari Hodgson. “Each person’s participation makes a difference.”
Collier County’s residential collection program recycles glass, metal cans, plastic bottles, paper and cardboard. The award-winning foam recycling program collects polystyrene foam at all Recycling Drop-Off Centers. In addition, yard waste, construction and demolition materials, appliances and electronics are recycled. The Landfill also hosts a Gas to Energy Facility that converts landfill gas to electricity that powers 3,000 homes in Collier County.