Recycling in Kansas City, MO: What Apartment Communities Need to Know

March 28, 2024
kansas city recycling rules

Kansas City, with its rich history and barbecue fame, is also focused on building a sustainable future. Recycling plays a vital role in keeping the City of Fountains clean and green!  Let's break down Kansas City's recycling ordinances and explore how to make recycling easy in your apartment community.

The Basics of Kansas City's Recycling Program

  • Mandatory Participation: Kansas City mandates recycling services for all apartments and multi-family housing complexes.
  • What's Accepted: Kansas City's recycling program accepts a wide range of materials, including:
  • Paper and cardboard (please flatten boxes)
  • Aluminum and steel cans
  • Glass bottles and jars (any color)
  • Plastics #1, #2, #4, #5, and often #7
  • Cartons (from milk, broth, etc.)
  • What's Not Recyclable: Items like plastic bags, food waste, and yard debris can contaminate the recycling stream. Emphasizing clean and empty recyclables is key!

Tips for Effective Recycling in Your Kansas City Apartment

  1. Collection Choices: Contact the City of Kansas City's Solid Waste Division to learn about recycling collection options for your property: https://www.kcmo.gov/city-hall/departments/trash
  2. Visibility is Key: Position labeled recycling bins prominently and conveniently, ideally right next to regular trash bins.
  3. Clear and Concise Communication: Provide residents with user-friendly guides (the city may have resources) explaining what can and cannot be recycled. Regular reminders about recycling in newsletters and on social media are also helpful.
  4. Beyond the Bin: Explore additional ways to reduce waste! Kansas City offers food scrap drop-off locations, which could be an added initiative for your community. More info: [invalid URL removed]

Why Recycling Matters in Kansas City

  • Landfill Limits: Recycling keeps materials out of landfills, extending their lifespan and preserving the region's natural beauty.
  • Resource Conservation: Turning old materials into new products conserves valuable resources.
  • Community Spirit: Successful recycling programs foster a sense of environmental stewardship among residents, which in turn strengthens your apartment community.
  • Renter Appeal: Easy and accessible recycling makes your apartments appealing to those seeking a sustainable lifestyle.

Resources for Recycling Success

  • City of Kansas City, MO - Trash and Recycling Services: Your official source for the latest recycling information, service options, and city updates: https://www.kcmo.gov/city-hall/departments/trash
  • Bridging the Gap: A local non-profit with additional waste reduction programs and resources: [invalid URL removed]
  • WasteFree: Discover waste audits, enhanced recycling solutions, and educational resources: https://www.wastefree.com/

Let's Make Kansas City Greener – Together!

By understanding your city's recycling rules and empowering residents to prioritize recycling, your apartment community becomes a leader in Kansas City's sustainability initiatives.