An edition of: WaterAtlas.orgPresented By: Sarasota County, USF Water Institute

Water-Related News

Recycling rates In Florida continue to climb

News Image

This year's new 2013 recycling data released by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection shows Florida's official recycling rate is now 49 percent, up one percent from last year. This represents a substantial increase in the amount of solid waste recycled -- from 9.7 million tons in 2012 to 11.8 million tons in 2013.

“As we get closer to the 2020 deadline for the 75-percent recycling goal, we need all Florida residents to step up recycling efforts,” said Division of Waste Management Director Jorge Caspary. “While we have made modest improvements again this year, it is still critical for the commercial sector to increase its recycling efforts before the goal can be achieved.”

Lets keep up the great work Florida and achieve the 75% recycling goal by 2020!

Top 10 Counties for Total Recycling Rates:
  1. Hillsborough, 73%
  2. Lee, 70%
  3. Hendry, 68%
  4. Pasco, 67%
  5. Pinellas, 63%
  6. Collier, 60%
  7. Sarasota, 58%
  8. Martin, Palm Beach, 56% (tie)
  9. Monroe, 55%

Top 10 Counties for Traditional Recycling Rates:
  1. Sarasota, 58%
  2. Alachua, Martin, Collier, 54% (three-way tie)
  3. Brevard, 52%
  4. Manatee, 48%
  5. Orange, 47%
  6. Lee, 46%
  7. Duval, Leon, 45%(tie)