Collier County, FL
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Life After the Curb Video
Curious about what happens to your recycling after it leaves the curb? Dive deep into the process with Collier County's informative video! Discover the journey your recyclables take and learn how they are transformed into new materials. Click the link below to watch.
Only place these items into your curbside recycling cart:
- Plastic bottles, jars, jugs and tubs
- Glass bottles and jars
- Metal cans
- Paper, cardboard and cartons
Remember these three basic rules the next time you recycle
- Remove all food waste from containers
- Fill your container with clean and dry recyclables
- Do not bag your recyclables. Do not place any type of plastic bags in your recycling cart
What can I do with special items or household hazardous waste?
Visit one of Collier County's conveniently located Recycling Drop-Off Centers. For a current list of accepted materials and rates, visit colliercountyfl.gov/dispose
How can I recycle plastic bags or packaging?
Plastic bags are not recyclable in curbside recycling. Plastic bags get tangled in equipment used to sort recyclables, which becomes a safety issue for workers. You can drop off plastic bags and packaging at participating stores to be recycled.
Where does my recycling go?
All residential recycling that is collected at the curb is hauled to a Material Resource Facility (MRF) located outside of the county. At the MRF, the material is sorted, baled and shipped to third party wholesalers. Recycled material is then processed into new material, such as bottles, containers, clothes, bicycles, furniture and paper.
Helpful Links
For information regarding Reuse and Recycling Organizations please view our:
Reuse Directory
Thank you for choosing to reuse and donate. You make a difference in our community and our environment. Donating gently used items can help those in need and preserve paradise. Choosing to reuse and donate items allows them to have a second life and not end up in a landfill.
Organizations wishing to be added to this directory, please email recycling@colliercountyfl.gov.
This directory is an alphabetical listing of reuse and recycling organizations in Collier County. Listings are not endorsed or recommended and should not be considered a complete listing of services provided in Collier County. Please call the organization to confirm accepted items.
Recycling is Mandatory for all Businesses in Collier County
Recycling Ordinance 2009-56 requires all businesses, temporary events, venue facilities and institutions to separate and establish a recycling program for recyclable material. Recycling program includes contracting with a recycling hauler for collection.
Collier County works closely with local businesses to create successful waste reduction and recycling programs. Collier County offers waste assessments and recommendations on how to get started. To set up an appointment with a Recycling Coordinator, please call 239-252-2380 or email recycling@colliercountyfl.gov.
Construction and Demolition (C&D)
C&D is a significant and growing portion of the waste produced in Florida today. Section 403.703 of the Florida Statue defines C&D as, “…discarded materials generally considered to be not water-soluble and nonhazardous in nature, including, but not limited to, steel, glass, brick, asphalt roofing material, pipe, gypsum wallboard, and lumber from the construction or destruction of a structure as part of a construction or demolition project or from the renovation of a structure, and including rocks, soils, tree remains, trees, and other vegetative matter that normally results from land clearing or land development operations…”
Contractors are required to provide quarterly reports to Collier County identifying the types and amounts of recyclable material collected. For more details, call 239-252-7575 to speak to a Recycling Coordinator.
Benefits of C&D Recycling
Businesses in the construction, remodeling, roofing and demolition industries benefit from recycling. Recycling can reduce the cost of disposal and transportation of generated material. It also generates reuse for certain material. C&D Recycling can also preserve landfill airspace, save energy and reduce the production of greenhouse gas and other pollutants.
Non-Recyclable C&D Materials
Certain types of material collected from C&D projects are considered toxic or classified as hazardous waste. These material include latex and lead paint, chemical solvents, adhesives and asbestos. For information on the proper disposal of hazardous materials, please visit our Hazardous Materials Management Webpage
Helpful Business Recycling Information:
Collier County's Waste Reduction Award Program (WRAP) recognizes exceptional recycling and sustainability efforts of establishments in Collier County.
The WRAP is awarded to establishments that promote and incorporate recycling and sustainable efforts. This can include reducing and reusing waste, donation of materials or creating an innovative recycling program. Establishments include offices, institutions, multi-family residences, temporary events, retail stores, venues and businesses. Award recipients receive a trophy and spotlight on our website.
You can apply or nominate a establishment for the WRAP Award by contacting recycling@colliercountyfl.gov
Sandalwood Village
Sandalwood Village takes great pride in its waste reduction and recycling initiatives, which are central to preserving landfill space and promoting sustainable living. These efforts reflect a long-term commitment to environmental responsibility, benefiting both the community and the wider ecosystem.
A key element of this success is the community's partnership with the Solid and Hazardous Waste Management Division of Collier County. Through this collaboration, Sandalwood Village provides residents with educational materials and organizes presentations led by County staff. These sessions emphasize the importance of proper recycling and environmental stewardship, equipping residents with the knowledge to make informed, sustainable choices.
By exceeding the minimum requirements of Ordinance 2009-56, the staff and residents of Sandalwood Village have demonstrated a proactive commitment to waste reduction and recycling. Their ongoing efforts have not only reduced waste but also set a positive example for other communities to follow.
This dedication has earned Sandalwood Village the well-deserved recognition of the Waste Reduction Award Program (WRAP), a testament to the collective impact of their hard work in fostering a greener future for all.
Boca Ciega Manor
Boca Ceiga Manor is a vibrant and proactive community made up of 104 residential units. To promote environmental responsibility and sustainability, the community has formed a dedicated Recycling Committee comprised of five residents, including Janice Condron. These individuals take on the important role of overseeing and ensuring that the waste management practices within the community strictly adhere to the guidelines set forth by Collier County Ordinance 2009-56.
The committee and the community have not only met the minimum requirements of the ordinance but have actively exceeded them. Through their diligent efforts, Boca Ceiga Manor proudly maintains a remarkable 0% contamination rate in its recycling stream—a testament to the commitment and hard work of its residents.
In addition to this achievement, the Recycling Committee has taken further initiative by collaborating with the Collier County Solid & Hazardous Waste Management Division. This partnership is aimed at educating all residents on proper recycling methods and waste reduction strategies. The committee has facilitated the distribution of educational outreach materials, provided by Collier County, to each household within the community. By raising awareness and promoting best practices, they are guaranteeing that every resident is empowered to contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable environment.
Boca Ceiga Manor’s Recycling Committee continues to lead by example, fostering a sense of shared responsibility for environmental stewardship among its residents. Their efforts comply with local regulations and demonstrate a forward-thinking approach to sustainable living, which continues to make Collier County the best place to live, work and play.
HeadPinz of Naples
HeadPinz of Naples is dedicated to preserving our paradise by meticulously optimizing its waste management system, guaranteeing no contamination infiltrates the recycling process. Not only does the staff educate their employees, but they also extend their efforts to enlighten their patrons. Instead of settling for the bare minimum, they strive to exceed expectations, ensuring maximal recycling of materials. Their commitment sets a commendable standard for environmental stewardship.
Corkscrew Elementary
Corkscrew Elementary spearheaded a tailored recycling initiative designed to capture recyclables originating from classrooms and throughout the school grounds. Over a span of three months, the dedicated efforts of students and staff resulted in the collection of an impressive 1200 pounds of recyclable materials. This program serves as an invaluable educational tool, instilling in students the significance of recycling, its positive impact on the environment, its role in reducing litter, and its contribution to preserving our paradise. Empowered with the knowledge gained from this initiative, the children are not only equipped to responsibly manage waste at home but they have also been inspiring their parents by demonstrating the importance and efficacy of recycling practices. Corkscrew Elementary students & staff are continuing to make Collier County the best place to live, work, and play.
Vistas Common at Heritage Bay Association, Inc
Vistas at Heritage Bay takes immense pride in its commitment to sustainability, exemplified through its exceptional recycling program. Through ongoing education initiatives, residents are empowered with the knowledge to make informed recycling decisions, while community members' analysis of recycling streams ensures minimal contamination.
Moreover, the community actively maintains a pristine environment by diligently monitoring for litter, hazardous waste, and potential health hazards around its waste management infrastructure. This proactive approach not only safeguards the well-being of residents but also instills a sense of pride and confidence in the conscientious management of their solid waste area. At Vistas at Heritage Bay, environmental stewardship is not just a duty but a shared value that enhances the quality of life for all.
Southwest Waste
Southwest Waste has emerged as a positive force in the waste industry by significantly reducing waste sent to landfills, and continually innovating their recycling methods. Southwest Waste is a dedicated community member committed to driving positive change in the solid waste industry through innovative recycling processes and utilizing state of the art equipment to maximize value of recyclable commodities at their facility.
By using innovative technology in the material sorting industry, their facility has systematically reduced the amount of waste sent to landfills and maximized the value of recycling commodities. They are also continuously exploring new methods and technologies to improve their recycling operations and resource recovery. They have been implementing efficient waste sorting and diversion programs, redirecting a significant portion of discarded materials towards recycling streams, promoting a circular economy, and minimizing the need for new raw materials, thereby, assisting businesses and organizations in meeting their sustainability goals.
Further, their facility sorted and recycled more than 3,500 tons of hurricane generated debris. Their actions to reduce, reuse, and recycle has contributed to the overall good of Collier County and demonstrates their commitment to help make Collier County the best place to live, work, and play.
Pet Supplies Plus
In a commendable display of commitment to environmental sustainability, Pet Supplies Plus, 4800 Davis Blvd offers a wide variety of pet supplies and services for all your furry friends was honored with the Waste Reduction Award Program (WRAP) on Tuesday, November 28. The WRAP, a recognition initiative by Collier County Waste Reduction & Recycling team, acknowledges outstanding recycling and sustainability efforts within the county.
Pet Supplies Plus stood out for their comprehensive approach to promoting and integrating recycling and sustainable practices. Embracing diverse initiatives focused on reducing, reusing, and recycling, the company has become an inspiration of eco-consciousness within the community.
One of their recent endeavors involves a partnership with a global innovative recycling management company, Terra Cycle. Through this collaboration, locals can drop off empty pet food and treat bags at their stores for recycling. These collected bags undergo a thorough process of cleaning and separation by material type. The resulting materials are then recycled into raw formats used by manufacturers to create new products.
Additionally, Pet Supplies Plus actively partners with local animal rescue and animal food banks. They encourage donations of items that would typically find their way to landfills. By accepting and redistributing these contributions of pet products, the company ensures these items are given a new life, effectively reducing landfill waste. Beyond being a retailer, Pet Supplies Plus has transcended its role by actively involving the community in their eco-friendly initiatives. Their dedication to waste management significantly contributes to the betterment of Collier County, setting an admirable standard in the industry. Their efforts showcase a genuine commitment to enhancing the quality of life for residents while promoting a sustainable approach where we live, work and play.
The recognition of Pet Supplies Plus with the WRAP award not only highlights their remarkable initiatives but also serves as inspiration for others within the industry to adopt similar practices, fostering a more sustainable future for the region.
School Tours and Presentations
Tours
Collier County offers tours of the county owned Landfill, Landfill Gas-to-Energy Facility, Household Hazardous Collection Center and the county’s four main Recycling Drop-Off Centers. Tours can be catered to the audience’s interests and presentations are available on site or remotely. Participants will learn how Collier County’s programs and services for waste, recycling, and household hazardous waste are managed to keep Collier County the best place to live, work and play.
Thanks to participants like yourself and the care and support from businesses, Collier County reached the State Recycling Goal of 75% in 2021. Collier County is also the first county to offer foam recycling.
Learn how Collier County manages various waste streams and an in-depth look at life after the curb. A driving tour is also included for an up-close look at what happens after garbage is collected from homes and businesses.
Tour details:
- An appointment is mandatory - available Monday through Friday. Guests must provide their own transportation (busses can be accommodated)
- Groups, civic associations, homeowner associations, schools and universities are welcomed
- The length and content of the tour can be accommodated to best suit your groups interest
To schedule a tour, please email recycling@colliercountyfl.gov or contact 239-252-7575. Please include the following information
- Contact name, email and telephone number
- Total number of participants
- Age of children participants
- Additional information you would like us to know (i.e. participant limitations, accommodations, etc.)
Presentations
Collier County offers in-person or virtual presentations on how garbage is managed, curbside services, the proper disposal of household hazardous waste, the importance of recycling and what items are recyclable, hurricane preparation and how to use the county's recycling search tool and game. The length and content of presentations can be personalized to fit the group's interests.
Presentations are available to:
- Civic Organizations
- Homeowners Associations
- Schools and Universities
- Business Employees
- Collier County Residents
Recycling is Mandatory at all Events
Recycling services are an open market. Event organizers may utilize any licensed recycling hauler. Click here for a list of recycling haulers. Collier County offers portable recycling containers for use. A county Recycling Coordinator may provide assistance in setting up recycling at temporary events.
Event organizers must utilize WM, (239) 649-2212, for garbage service if the event is located in Collier County. Event organizers must use Waste Pro, (239) 657-2729, if the event is located in the area of Immokalee.
Permit Requirements
The following documents must be completed with your permit application:
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Solid Waste Temporary Event Recycling Plan
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Solid Waste Haulers Contract
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Recycling Haulers Contract or a Self-Hauling Certificate
Prior to the Event
- Place a suitable number of recycling containers throughout the event, generally one next to each waste container.
- Use proper labeling and signage of recycling containers
- Notify staff and vendors where containers are located and what items are accepted
During the Event
- Encourage participation of recycling and the location of the bins
- Check your recycling containers for proper usage to help prevent contamination
- Ensure that containers do not get overfilled
After the Event
- Reuse or donate leftover items and food
- Ensure all the generated recyclables are properly recycled
- Notify Collier County, recycling@colliercountyfl.gov, the amount of recycling and garbage generated at the event
Please contact a Recycling Coordinator by contacting (239) 252-7575 or email recycling@colliercountyfl.gov if you have any questions or need assistance in setting up a recycling plan.
Foam Polystyrene Recycling
Collier County accepts foam polystyrene to be recycled into new materials. Foam polystyrene can only be dropped off at a Recycling Drop-Off Center. DO NOT place foam polystyrene in curbside recycling carts.
Recycling Drop-Off Centers only accept the following foam polystyrene products:
- Clean packaging used for appliances, electronics, furniture and coolers
- Clean food containers such as egg cartons, trays, cups and plates
Recycling Drop-Off Centers DO NOT accept the following foam polystyrene products:
- Packing peanuts
- Thin-flexible foam
- Foam with stickers or tape
- Black, blue and pink foam
Foam polystyrene can be recycled into several products, such as surfboards, picture frames, construction material and packaging.
Holiday Recycling
How do I dispose of my Christmas tree if I have residential curbside service?
Residents of single family homes with curbside collection service may place Christmas trees curbside on their regularly scheduled yard waste collection day. The tree will be collected free of charge. Trees must be free of all decorations including lights, tinsel and ornaments.
Do not wrap trees in plastic. In order to fit into the waste collection trucks, trees over six feet in length must be cut in half. Trees should be placed curbside before 6 a.m. on the yard waste collection day, but no earlier than 6 p.m. the evening prior.
I live in a condominium with commercial service, how do I dispose of my Christmas tree?
Residents of multi-family complexes, those with dumpster and compactor service, may contact the property management. Please do not place trees in dumpsters or compactors.
Live Christmas trees may also be taken to one of Collier County's recycling drop-off centers at no charge. Artificial Christmas trees are not accepted at recycling drop-off centers.
What do I do with my cardboard and gift boxes?
Gift boxes can be reused or be placed in your recycling cart. Cardboard boxes will only be recycled if broken down flat. Flatten and place small boxes into your recycling cart. Make sure the cardboard does not stop other recyclables from being emptied. Remove all paper and packing material. Cut large boxes to a size not exceeding three feet by three feet. You may place large flattened cardboard next to your recycling cart on the day your recycling is collected. Remember that if you choose not to break down your boxes or place them in your recycling cart, they will not be recycled.
How do I recycle wrapping paper?
Most wrapping paper is fully recyclable and may be placed in your curbside recycling cart. Wrapping material that is not recyclable and must be disposed of in the trash includes:
- Ribbon
- Bows
- Tissue Paper
- Flocked wrapping paper
- Foiled wrapping paper
- Glittered wrap
ECO-FRIENDLY IDEAS FOR THE HOLIDAYS
Green ideas for holiday season:
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Wrap gifts in creative wrapping paper substitutes, such as decorated brown paper grocery bags, children's art work, old maps, newspapers, Sunday comics, or holiday gift bags that can be reused. Reusing gift bags is a great way to recycle over and over again.
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Shipping boxes can also be recycled. The reuse of shipping boxes is fairly easy. Simply cut open the box, flip it inside out, and then use non-toxic paint to decorate the outside of the box.
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If you use traditional wrapping, look for recycled-content wrapping paper.
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If you send holiday cards, buy recycled content cards and envelopes.
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Send electronic cards, they are fun and save trees and energy.
Free Resources
- Residential Guidebook: A comprehensive guide on proper waste disposal and recycling.
- Trilingual “Recycle This!” Magnet: A tool outlining recyclable items in your community.
For additional educational materials such as signage, brochures, magnets, door hangers, stickers, and more to promote proper recycling reach out to Recycling Coordinators at recycling@colliercountyfl.gov. Recycling Coordinators are also available to visit your community and provide free presentations. We are eager to collaborate with your community and make recycling even easier.
Helpful Recycling Links
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