Denton Solid Waste and Recycling has established itself as a national leader in recycling quality following a dramatic reduction in contamination rates. At 67% in 2021, the city鈥檚 contamination rate has now dropped to just 8% as of February 2025, placing Denton among the top municipalities in the nation for effective waste management.
As recycling guidelines have evolved to prioritize quality over quantity, Denton鈥檚 dramatic reduction in contamination since 2021 is even more significant. Stricter global policies have limited the export of certain materials, making it more important than ever to keep recycled items clean. The City鈥檚 commitment to higher standards ensures that more materials are successfully processed, repurposed, and kept out of landfills.
鈥淭his accomplishment is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team, as well as Denton鈥檚 residents and business owners,鈥� said Brian Boerner, Director of Solid Waste and Recycling. 鈥淲e are continually striving to find innovative solutions that promote positive waste management habits, and this dramatic reduction in contamination is clear evidence of our success.鈥�
Denton Solid Waste and Recycling credits this progress to the City鈥檚 extensive public education efforts. Through targeted outreach programs, the department has empowered the Denton community with the tools needed to recycle properly and the importance of reducing contamination.