Rutherford County Expands Recycling Options with 13 Convenience Centers and 85 Partner Locations

The Rutherford County Public Works Committee meeting on June 16, 2025, focused on enhancing recycling efforts and addressing contamination issues in local recycling programs. Committee members discussed the importance of proper recycling practices, emphasizing that "wish cycling"—placing non-recyclable items in recycling bins—can lead to significant contamination, which risks the entire batch being sent to landfills.

The committee evaluated the county's 13 convenience centers, noting that each center accepts multiple categories of recyclable materials. Currently, the Haley Road Center is closed for remodeling, but the county is optimistic about its reopening. In addition to the convenience centers, the committee highlighted partnerships with private sector organizations, which have provided 85 additional recycling locations in the region, with 95% of these situated in Rutherford County.

The meeting also introduced a new online resource, Recycle Right TM, designed to help residents easily locate recycling options. The website features a user-friendly interface where residents can find information on what items can be recycled and where to take them. Each listed location has been vetted to ensure that materials are recycled properly and not sent to landfills.

The committee reassured residents that signage at participating businesses, such as Staples and Office Depot, will guide them on how to recycle items effectively. The initiative aims to improve recycling rates and reduce contamination, ultimately benefiting the environment and the community.

As the county continues to update its recycling resources, residents are encouraged to utilize these tools to enhance their recycling efforts and contribute to a more sustainable Rutherford County.