Texas recycling advocates push for expanded access in multifamily housing

The Senate Committee on Natural Resources convened on April 16, 2025, to discuss critical issues surrounding recycling access and legislation in Texas. A significant focus of the meeting was the lack of recycling options for residents in multifamily housing, with 80% of apartment dwellers lacking access to recycling services. This statistic highlights a major gap in the state's recycling infrastructure, as only 36% of Texans currently have access to recycling.

Cyrus Reid from the Lone Star chapter of the Sierra Club expressed support for proposed legislation aimed at improving recycling efforts. He emphasized the importance of including diverse representatives in the advisory committee overseeing the plan, suggesting that members from municipal solid waste management, environmental advocacy, and consumer groups should be included. Reid advocated for a comprehensive approach that examines the environmental impacts of recycling and seeks to reduce single-use waste products.

Leonard Lang, a veteran in the recycling industry, voiced concerns about the effectiveness of the proposed legislation. Drawing from his extensive experience in California's recycling sector, he warned that without proper expertise and structure, Texas could face worsening recycling challenges. He cautioned that the legislation might not yield the desired improvements.

Sarah Koehler from the Recycling Partnership provided data on recycling access in Texas, revealing that 56% of residents have curbside recycling, while 26% rely on drop-off services. However, only 20% of multifamily residents have access to recycling, underscoring the need for enhanced infrastructure. Koehler highlighted the potential economic benefits of recovering recyclable materials currently sent to landfills, estimating that 3.2 million tons could be redirected into new products.

The discussions at the meeting reflect ongoing efforts to address recycling challenges in Texas, with stakeholders advocating for improved access and infrastructure to foster a more sustainable recycling system. The committee's next steps will likely involve considering the suggestions made by advocates and assessing the potential impact of the proposed legislation on the state's recycling landscape.