Miami-Dade County’s recycling contamination rates drop to lowest level in years

Miami-Dade County’s recycling contamination rate has declined from nearly 50 percent in 2020 to 36.5 percent, marking one of the County’s most significant improvements in recycling quality in several years. The milestone, which includes a 2.3 percent decrease in the past six months alone, reflects the Miami-Dade County Department of Solid Waste Management’s (DSWM) ongoing efforts to educate residents, expand recycling opportunities, and strengthen enforcement. 

“Every item recycled represents a small but meaningful action toward a healthier environment and a more sustainable future for us all,” said Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava. “This remarkable reduction in recycling contamination demonstrates what can be accomplished when government, schools, community partners, and residents work together toward a shared goal. We are proud of the progress we’ve made, and we thank our residents for embracing better recycling habits that help build a cleaner, greener, and more resilient Miami-Dade.” 

Since 2020, DSWM has expanded curbside recycling by adding new materials while launching initiatives to reduce contamination, including:  
•    Updated recycling cart stickers highlighting accepted materials, soon-to-be deployed.
•    Expanded public education and outreach campaigns focused on proper recycling. 
•    Partnerships with Miami-Dade County Public Schools to educate students. 
•    Community presentations, workshops, and events promoting the Recycle Right initiative. 
•    The launch of the SCRAPP mobile app, giving residents instant recycling guidance. 
•    Educational tours of WM's recycling facility highlighting how AI technology improves recycling, reduces contamination, and maximizes beneficial reuse.
•    Continued collaboration with municipal partners to standardize recycling practices.

Education is complemented by proactive field efforts to reduce contamination. Each month, DSWM Code Enforcement Officers inspect more than 1,000 recycling carts and provide residents with guidance on proper recycling. In addition, AI-powered cameras on recycling collection vehicles help identify contamination, allowing the Department to target education outreach where it is needed most. 
 
“Our progress is proof that education works,” said DSWM Director Aneisha Daniel, PhD. “We believe environmental change begins with informed and engaged residents. Through innovative technology, strong community partnerships, proactive outreach, and dedicated enforcement efforts, we’re making recycling easier to understand and helping residents become active partners in protecting our environment. We’re incredibly grateful to our community for embracing these efforts and helping us build a more sustainable recycling program for everyone.” 
 
Reducing contamination improves the quality and value of recyclable materials, lowers processing costs, decreases landfill disposal, and advances the County’s Zero Waste Master Plan. Residents can learn more at miamidade.gov/recycling.