Texas Recycles Day is Saturday, Nov. 15
Texas will celebrate its annual Recycles Day on Saturday, Nov. 15, in an effort to raise awareness about recycling. That’s important because Texas Commission on Environmental Quality statistics indicate that the average Texan is responsible for 7.24 pounds of trash each day (2024 data).
TCEQ reports indicate that more than 2 million tons of materials were diverted from landfills for recycling and reuse purposes in 2024. More than 41.3 million tons of materials still went to the landfill, however, according to the TCEQ’s annual municipal solid waste review.
Across the state, there are 206 landfills, of which 99 are type 1 (standard landfill) serving general needs and collectively have 54 years in reserve capacity. Regional planning commissions such as the North Central Texas Council of Governments, which counts Ellis County as a member, have the primary responsibility for regional solid waste management planning.
The NCTCOG, which serves more than 8.5 million people, has a reserve capacity of about 37 years across its membership. Ellis County itself has two active type 1 landfills.
TCEQ's Take Care of Texas program wants to help local governments, nonprofits, community groups, and all Texans to celebrate recycling awareness. Check out the TCOT Blog to see waste facts, figures, and what you can do to reduce the amount of trash going to landfills.
“Transfer stations diverted the most recyclable materials,” according to the review.
The TCEQ’s Take Care of Texas program also encourages Texans to connect with it via Facebook, Instagram, X, or YouTube. You can also post to your favorite social media platform using the #TexasRecyclesDay and tagging TCOT.
Find free educational resources to download or order at TakeCareOfTexas.org/Resources.
