Overview

Input Open: June 8-Aug 31 open in new window

Project Overview

Recycling is one of the simplest ways we can reduce waste and protect our environment. But it only works if people can actually do it. With local landfills reaching capacity, it’s more important than ever. PlanRVA, in partnership with the Central Virginia Waste Management Authority (CVWMA), is studying barriers to recycling so we can make recycling easier, reduce waste, and create a more sustainable future for our region.

There are several potential factors that can make recycling difficult or impossible:

  1. Limited knowledge of solid waste practices
  2. Confusion and myths about recycling
  3. Insufficient or inconsistent information from sources of authority
  4. Service availability and accessibility

How?

We will research and talk directly to communities about their thoughts and experiences around recycling. There won't be a one-size-all solution; People in different community and housing types will experience different experiences when it comes to recycling. The barriers faced by an individual living in a multi-story apartment complex in downtown Richmond may be drastically different than those of a family living in rural Charles City, for example.

We will look for trends and commonalities in experiences, knowledge, and behavior between people living in different housing structures and community types.

The end result will be a recommendations report that will guide improvements aimed at helping people recycle with more success.

Who?

PlanRVA is leading the study and is working in close partnership with the Central Virginia Waste Management Authority (CVWMA), which is the public service body that implements solid waste management and recycling programs for our region.

cut out paper clipping letters spelling RECYCLE with images of recyclable materials floating in background. Woman with rust colored cardigan looks confused, hand on head.

Why

  • Regional landfills are filling up fast, and they can be detrimental to public health and wellbeing. No one likes to live near them! Recycling as much as possible can help relieve the pressure on existing landfills and delay the point at which new ones might need to be created.
  • Recycling is something everyone can do for our region and our environment - it should be easy, but it's not always!

✏️Survey

Your input is desired from June 8-Aug 31, 2026.

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

We know there are questions about recycling that are specific to neighborhoods, localities and type of residence (apartment, house, group living community). These frequently asked questions may not address your specific need, but could help expand knowledge about regional recycling practices, rules, and general facts.

Curious about recycling center drop off locations? Visit the drop off listing on CVWMA's website.

Recycling right is just as important as recycling more.

Unaccepted items can contaminate the recycling stream. This can ruin an entire batch of recycling, causing it to be trashed instead.

  • Recyclables must be clean and free of food waste.
  • Plastic bags and wrap are not accepted in CVWMA recycling programs.
  • Recyclables should be loose in the container (not bagged).
  • Keep Styrofoam, shredded paper, batteries, hoses and cords out of recycling containers.
  • Yes! Used pizza boxes ARE recyclable!


Learn more about what can be recycled, and the programs offered by CVWMA here.


Once picked up, your cans, bottles, plastics, paper and glass go to a Material Recovery Facility, or MRF.

The MRF is where items are separated, prepared and shipped out for their next life as new products. All recyclables collected through CVWMA programs are processed at a MRF in Chester, Virginia. The facility is owned and operated by TFC Recycling.

Watch the “Journey to the MRF” video for a look inside the amazing recycling process!


CVWMA compiles the annual regional recycling rate and submits a report to the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality.

Virginia requires the region to recycle at least 25% of its waste each year.

The regional recycling rate for CVWMA’s service area has consistently remained above 55%, thanks to the efforts of residents and businesses who choose to recycle.

Click the here for details about each year’s rate.


Curbside customers

Look up your recycling day: Enter your address in CVWMA's Customer Portal.


Check out the CVWMA calendar of events across the region (they serve 13 localities!)

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