Small change. Big impact: Recycling right in Fort Worth

Small change. Big impact: Recycling right in Fort Worth

Published on March 18, 2026

March 18 is Global Recycling Day - a day dedicated to recognizing the essential role recycling plays in conserving resources, reducing waste and supporting a more sustainable planet. It's a great opportunity for Fort Worth residents to take a fresh look at their recycling habits and make small improvements that can create a lasting impact throughout the community and beyond.

Recycling in Fort Worth starts with small, everyday choices - and those choices add up to a big impact for the city. Through the City's Rethink Waste initiative, residents are encouraged to take simple steps that help reduce contamination, protect resources and keep recyclable materials moving through the system.

Recycling works best when the basics are followed. Paper and cardboard, plastic containers, metal cans, and glass bottles and jars can all be recycled when items are empty, clean and dry. Keeping plastic bags, food and liquids out of the recycling cart helps ensure materials can be properly sorted and processed. These small habits at home, at work and in public spaces help strengthen recycling efforts citywide.

Once recyclables are collected, they are taken to a state-of-the-art Material Recovery Facility (MRF), where materials are sorted, bundled and prepared to be turned into new products. Recycling correctly at the cart plays an important role in keeping this system efficient and effective for Fort Worth.

Resources

• Learn more about how small recycling habits create a big impact. Watch the "Small Change. Big Impact." video and explore recycling resources through Rethink Waste.
• Find City of Fort Worth recycling guidelines, accepted materials and additional resources.

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• Environment