The State of Recycling in The Woodlands

Grace DeCarlo of The Woodlands Township discusses the state of curbside recycling in The Woodlands, including participation, diversion, and contamination rates. Using data from their solid waste contractor, Grace examines changes in all three of these measures over the last 5 years and how they compare to national averages. Beyond traditional curbside recycling, The Woodlands Township offers a host of specialty recycling events and programs. The lecture examines the success of these programs before looking ahead to new programs launching in late 2025 and beyond.

Grace DeCarlo has a master’s degree in environmental science with a concentration in sustainable policy and development. She holds a certification in “Managing Integrated Solid Waste Management Systems” from the Solid Waste Association of North America and has received training in community-based social marketing. Grace has served as the Environmental Education Coordinator for Recycling & Waste Minimization in The Woodlands Township since February 2024. In this role, she focuses on multi-faceted education for recycling right, hosting recycling drive-thrus for the community, and the implementation and maintenance of year-round specialty recycling programs.