Broward County encourages residents to recycle as America Recycles Day approaches

As America Recycles Day approaches on November 15, the Solid Waste Authority of Broward County (SWA) is urging residents to adopt better recycling habits and reduce household waste amid growing concerns about the county's waste management challenges.

According to the SWA, Broward County generates approximately 20,000 pounds of waste per minute, while its recycling rate stands at just 41%, significantly below Florida's statewide goal of 75%.

The authority, which brings together leaders from 26 municipalities and Broward County, is working to address the growing waste problem through coordinated efforts to improve recycling, reduce waste and encourage more sustainable practices.

As part of this year's America Recycles Day observance, the SWA is highlighting the work of Arc Broward, a Sunrise-based nonprofit organization celebrating its 70th anniversary, for its commitment to waste reduction and environmentally responsible practices.

Arc Broward supports children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities through various programs, including Arc Culinary, which provides workforce training for individuals pursuing careers as chefs and food service professionals.

Through a partnership with the Museum of Discovery and Science (MODS) in Fort Lauderdale, Arc Culinary combines workforce development with sustainable food preparation and packaging practices.

Each week, students in the program prepare fresh, grab-and-go meals using compostable and recyclable packaging. The meals are delivered to the museum's Elements Café and other locations throughout Broward County.

The initiative also teaches participants about sustainable food preparation and the importance of using recyclable materials, demonstrating how local organizations can incorporate waste reduction into their daily operations.

Beyond recognizing businesses and nonprofits, the SWA is encouraging residents to take steps at home to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills.

According to the authority, the average Broward County household discards approximately 900 pounds of materials annually that could otherwise be recycled or reused.

Residents are encouraged to familiarize themselves with their municipality's recycling guidelines and avoid placing items such as plastic grocery bags, plastic films and wraps, Styrofoam containers, cords, hoses, batteries, food waste and diapers in recycling carts.

The authority also recommends reusing takeout containers, finding creative ways to use leftover food, donating gently used clothing and household items, and repurposing materials instead of throwing them away.

Residents can find additional recycling information, donation locations and waste reduction tips at browardrecycles.org.

The SWA is also inviting residents to share their own recycling and reuse ideas through its online recycling tips platform.

In recognition of America Recycles Day, the authority is encouraging residents to take its Waste Less and Recycle Right Pledge, aimed at promoting responsible recycling habits and reducing waste across Broward County.

The initiative is part of the SWA's broader efforts to improve recycling participation and move Broward County closer to Florida's 75% recycling goal.