DEP 101: Recycling

In 2015, Florida recycled 13.8 million tons of municipal solid waste, helping to increase the statewide overall recycling rate to 54 percent. In order for Florida to reach 75 percent recycling by 2020, a goal established by the Florida Legislature in 2008, the department is urging all sectors, especially the commercial sector, to actively increase recycling efforts. 

How does recycling protect the environment?

• Reduces the amount of waste sent to landfills and incinerators.
• Conserves natural resources such as timber, water and minerals.
• Saves energy and prevents pollution.
• Helps sustain the environment for future generations.

Recycling and reuse create nine times more jobs in Florida than sending trash to landfills and incinerators

Recycling and reuse businesses employ 32,000 people in Florida, generating $765 million in annual payroll and $4.4 billion in annual revenue

DEP is Growing the Recycling Economy

Recycling Business Assistance Center (RBAC)

• Helps develop markets for recyclable materials.
• Assists recycling businesses at all levels of the supply chain.
• Partners with Enterprise Florida and the Agency for Workforce Innovation to provide technical assistance and resources to current and potential recycling businesses in Florida.
• Provides information about financing options and general business support.

Florida Recycling Loan Program

• Program offers long-term fixed-rate loans at low-interest rates. Since its inception, the Florida Recycling Loan Program has provided more than $3.9 million
• Provides capital to businesses to purchase recycling equipment and machinery.

Recycling Recognition Program

• Recognizes outstanding recycling achievements by private businesses, institutions, schools, public organizations and citizens across Florida.
• Qualifying for the Recycling Recognition Program demonstrates commitment to Florida’s economic and environmental future.
• DEP has an easy tool that allows businesses to track various types of recycling and product reports