St. Johns County is paving the way for environmental stewardship in Florida, hitting a record-high recycling rate last year. With 46% of total waste recycled, the county now ranks proudly within the top 10 of Florida's 67 counties for recycling efforts. This laudable achievement was highlighted in a recent bragging, but it's more than just a pat on the back for residents—it's a beacon of sustainability's potential. "Every ton recycled helps conserve resources, protect our environment, and move us closer to a more sustainable future for St. Johns County," Greg Caldwell, Director for St. Johns County Public Works Department, told officials.
The numbers are, indeed telling. Out of the 800,631 tons of total waste reported in 2024, 371,651 tons were recycled, according to data from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP). The secret sauce? A combo of diligent residential curbside participation, local recycling collaborations, and education that encourages waste reduction at its core. There's a tool in the mix too: the Recycle Coach app, designed to help locals navigate the often murky waters of proper recycling habits, materials, and pickup schedules.
But while the residential side of things appears up to speed, the next frontier, and challenge, is the commercial sector. Businesses are critical in pushing these numbers even higher, where a plethora of recyclable items often escape the records. Reporting on materials such as cardboard, metal, and paper, Chris Benjamin, Outreach Coordinator for St. Johns County Solid Waste Division, emphasized, "By submitting recycling data, businesses help the County increase its recycling rate and reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills."
Recycling in St. Johns County goes beyond curbside bins. The county accepts items such as construction debris, clothing, furniture, organics, and automotive materials at designated drop-off locations. These services make it easier to safely dispose of large or hazardous items. Businesses are also encouraged to participate by reporting their recycling efforts to [email protected] or by calling 904-827-6980.
