Houston Launches New Multifamily Recycling Pilot Program
Houston is embarking on a significant initiative to boost recycling efforts across the city with the launch of its new multifamily recycling pilot program. This crucial step aims to address the long-standing challenge of limited recycling services for apartment residents, pushing Houston closer to national recycling standards and a more sustainable future.
Addressing Houston’s Recycling Gap
For too long, residents in Houston’s multifamily housing units have faced a scarcity of recycling options. Prior to this new initiative, the city primarily offered recycling services to single-family homes and only a select few multifamily complexes. This disparity has contributed to a notably low recycling rate in Houston.
According to a 2021 report by Environment Texas, Houston’s recycling rate stands at a mere 19%, significantly below the national average of 34.7%. This issue is compounded by the rapid growth of multifamily developments, with commercial real estate company Colliers reporting 9,321 new units underway as of July 2025. As District C Council Member Abbie Kamin highlights, “The more trash we produce, the faster our landfills reach capacity. We’re getting dangerously close to what will cost hundreds of millions of dollars if we don’t start reducing our waste.”
The Pilot Program: What’s Being Done
The discussion for expanding recycling began in 2021 with a budget amendment by Council Member Kamin, which mandated the city to develop an ordinance requiring multifamily buildings to offer recycling options, with an original implementation target of January 2024.
The current one-year pilot program officially commenced on October 1, 2025, led by Council Member Kamin in partnership with Houston’s Solid Waste Management Department. Initially, six properties are participating, but the program remains open for enrollment to any multifamily complex within the city that wishes to join.
No Cost for Participating Properties
A significant benefit for participating complexes is that all program expenses are covered for the first year. This is made possible through grants from two non-profit organizations dedicated to improving recycling systems: The Recycling Partnership and the Alliance to End Plastic Waste. These grants encompass funding for collection crews, recycling containers, educational materials for residents, and all related operational costs.
How to Join the Program
Multifamily complexes interested in providing recycling to their residents can easily inquire about joining the pilot program. Property representatives should contact the office of Council Member Abbie Kamin via email at abbie.kamin@houstontx.gov. Following initial discussions, the pilot program team will schedule a site visit to determine optimal bin placement. According to Jacob Mata, communication manager for Kamin’s office, recycling bins are typically delivered to the property within three to four weeks of the site visit.
Shaping Houston’s Recycling Future
The insights and data gathered from this year-long pilot program will be instrumental in shaping a future, comprehensive multifamily recycling ordinance. The ultimate goal is to bring Houston’s recycling infrastructure in line with other major U.S. cities, ensuring that all residents have access to convenient and effective recycling services.
Recycling Rates Comparison
| Location | Recycling Rate |
|---|---|
| Houston | 19% |
| National Average | 34.7% |
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the new Houston multifamily recycling program?
It’s a year-long pilot program launched on Oct. 1, 2025, to provide recycling services to apartment complexes, aiming to increase Houston’s overall recycling rate. - Who is leading this initiative?
District C Council Member Abbie Kamin and Houston’s Solid Waste Management Department are spearheading the program. - Are there any costs for multifamily properties to participate?
No, the program is free for participating properties for the first year, with all expenses covered by grants from The Recycling Partnership and the Alliance to End Plastic Waste. - How can my apartment complex join the program?
Interested multifamily complexes can contact Council Member Abbie Kamin’s office via email at abbie.kamin@houstontx.gov to discuss participation. - What is the long-term goal of this pilot program?
The data collected will inform a future city-wide ordinance requiring multifamily recycling, helping Houston meet national recycling standards.
This pilot program is a vital step toward a cleaner, more sustainable Houston. If you live in a multifamily complex, encourage your property management to explore this opportunity and help our city divert waste from landfills.
Houston Launches New Multifamily Recycling Pilot
