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Recycling Facts in Texas

The state of Texas is the second largest in the U.S. by population. The U.S. Census Bureau estimates that Texas is home to 24,326,974 residents. Like many areas in the South, Texas has been a little bit slow in bolstering its environmental efforts, including recycling.

  1. Participation

    • Participation in recycling programs remains quite low in most parts of Texas. Houston, the largest city in Texas (by population), only recycles 2.6 percent of its waste. In contrast, the city of San Francisco (CA) recycles approximately 69 percent of its waste.

    Economic Effects

    • The Texas recycling industry employs about 20,000 workers state-wide. The recycling industry adds approximately $2.9 billion to the Texas economy each year.

    Landfills

    • Texas has been effective in decreasing the number of landfills in the state. In 1990, the state of Texas operated 790 landfills. By 2002, the number of landfills had been reduced to 190.

    Solid Waste Composition

    • A whopping 36 percent of solid waste in Texas comes from paper. Approximately 20 percent comes from lawn/yard clippings. Plastics only make up eight percent and metals make up five percent.

    Recyling Capital of Texas

    • According to a study by Men's Health magazine, the city of San Antonio ranked third in the U.S. for recycling. San Antonio is the only city in Texas to come close to even come close to making the list. Fresno, California received the top honors.

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