Garbage and recycling trends

MINNEAPOLIS WASTE REPORT
The 2024 waste and recycling breakdown in Minneapolis shows an increase in the total waste generated (132,350 tons) when compared to 2023 (130,366 tons). This is an increase of 0.6 pounds per household per week.
The biggest changes were found in the following material categories:
• Increase in garbage (0.6 lbs / household / week)
• Decrease in traditional recyclables (0.35 lbs / household / week)
Recycling contamination in 2024 was 10.91%; this is a decrease of 1% compared to 2023.The top contaminants found in recycling carts include:
• Plastic bags and films
• Recycling in plastic bags
• Large plastic items (storage tubs, laundry baskets, kids toys)
• Random metal items (pipes, poles, reusable coffee / water bottles, pots and pans)
Four truck-loads of organics were sorted by hand in fall 2024. The average contamination rate for organics was found to be 1.1%. This is a very low contamination rate. Top contaminants found in organics include:
• Plastic-lined paper items (not BPI certified)
• Non-compostable plastic bags
• Pet waste and bedding
As of Jan. 1, 2025, a new state law went into effect requiring compostable products to be clearly and accurately labeled. Submit a report to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency whenever you find a product labeled compostable that is not actually compostable.

UPCOMING FIX-IT CLINIC
• Saturday, March 8 (12 - 4 p.m.) Fix-It Clinic at Lynnhurst Rec Center (1345 Minnehaha Pkwy., Minneapolis)

GARDEN TOOL SWAPS
Garden tool swaps will be held on Saturday, May 3 and May 10, 2025 at multiple locations across the city. More details to come. If your neighborhood organization wants to be a host site, contact GreenCorps member Margo Ashmore: margo.ashmore@minneapolismn.gov, 612-258-5635.
Check out Hennepin County’s Choose to Reuse website and Reuse Minnesota’s website for upcoming sales, swaps and tips and tricks to reuse, repair, and shop used.