Most people know garbage goes to the landfill after it leaves the curb, but where does recycling go?
The great news is, not to the landfill!
In November 2021, Metro Waste Authority began operations at Metro Recycling Facility to process recyclables and prepare them to be made into something new.
The agency’s Board of Directors approved the recycling facility to provide the same regional, and sustainable, approach to recyclables that have been successful with garbage for more than 50 years. Through this approach, a state-of-the-art processing facility, complete with the latest technology and an interactive education center, was made possible.
Metro residents can feel confident knowing when the right items are in the Curb It! cart at home, it is responsibly and successfully recycled!
In the first year of operations, Metro Recycling Facility has made a great impact:
- 25,000 tons of recyclables received = less items going to the landfill!
- 30% cleaner material = more opportunities to be made into something new!
- 50 community groups visited = more people learning how to recycle right!
This progress is something everyone in the metro can and should be proud of. The facility was awarded the 2022 Outstanding Facility/Program Award from the Iowa Society of Solid Waste Operations and the 2022 Infrastructure Award from the Iowa Recycling Association. The facility was also named 2022 Recycling Facility of the Year, Honorable Mention, by the National Waste & Recycling Association.
Metro Waste Authority is a government agency that was formed in 1969 to serve metro communities for safe, smart waste disposal. The agency remains committed to this mission and will continue providing programs and facilities to meet the needs of growing metro communities.
Success depends on each resident doing their part to put the right things in the Curb It! cart at home and keeping the wrong things out. If ever in doubt, check out Metro Waste Authority’s Recycling Guide at www.WhereItShouldGo.com/RecyclingGuide, or give them a call at (515) 244-0021.