The Florida Legislature established the Energy, Climate Change and Economic Security Act of 2008 to include a statewide weight-based recycling goal of 75% by 2020.  There is no provision in the statute for the goal to sunset after 2020.

The act directed the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to establish a reporting protocol for counties to report annually. The legislature established interim recycling goals: 40% by 2012; 50% by 2014; 60% by 2016; and 70% by 2018. DEP successfully established an annual reporting protocol for counties. Additionally, Florida achieved the interim goals established for 2012 and 2014. Florida achieved the interim goals established for 2012 and 2014; however, the state did not meet the 2016 interim goal of 60% and the recycling rate has continued to hold steady at just below 50%.

The department has suggested ways to increase recycling in Florida, as recommended in the 2016, 2018 and 2020 reports. These include options for focusing on markets, construction and demolition debris recycling, organics recycling, commercial recycling, and education and outreach. 

DEP continues to work with local governments and the recycling industry of Florida to implement critical programs and changes to improve recycling. Through partnerships with Florida recycling stakeholders, the department has a unique opportunity to transform Florida recycling from an aspirational goal into a program that incorporates source reduction, diversion of waste, recycling, and consideration of the full environmental impact of materials used from cradle to grave. The Recycling Program is exploring food waste diversion, market development research and engagement, education and outreach and collection and evaluation of solid waste and recycling data. 

We can all contribute by recycling as much as possible at or away from home. Contact your county recycling coordinators to see how you, your family, your business or your organization can help.

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    Recycling in Florida

    Recycling Resources

    • Contacts.
      Questions about local programs or other information about your county? Call your County Recycling Coordinator or visit their website.
    • Rethink.Reset.Recycle.
      Digital and printable resources (i.e. web banner, fact sheet, infographic and more) – to help recycling coordinators and green teams promote recycling.
    • Recycling Publications.
    • Additional Resources.
    Last Modified: Wednesday, Oct 16, 2024 - 09:52am