Recycling Program Expanded

Kansas City's Solid Waste Management Division is expanding its recycling program to include hot and cold paper cups, as well as plastic to-go cups, in residential recycling carts and designated drop-off locations. This addition makes recycling even easier for residents and supports the City's efforts to reduce waste, conserve resources, and build a more sustainable Kansas City.

By recycling, residents help keep valuable materials out of landfills and give those materials a second life as new products. Recyclable items can be transformed into aluminum cans, newspapers, carpet fibers, outdoor furniture, food packaging, jigsaw puzzles, and plastic lumber, reducing the need for raw materials and saving energy.

Materials are collected through Kansas City's curbside recycling service or delivered to a recycling center, then transported to a local processing facility where advanced sorting equipment separates materials by type. Once sorted, the recyclables are shipped to manufacturers and transformed into new products.

Kansas City remains committed to environmental stewardship and providing reliable recycling services for residents. The City continued operating its curbside recycling program during the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrating its dedication to sustainability and service.

Kansas City's recycling centers operate through a partnership with Bridging The Gap and the support of hundreds of volunteers who help make recycling programs successful throughout the community. Residents interested in making a hands-on difference are encouraged to learn more about volunteer opportunites through Bridging The Gap.