“ Want to make a difference? Recycle! When we each do our part, we contribute to a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable Middlesex County. I urge all residents to come to our recycling events. Held throughout the year, they are a convenient way for residents to safely and
SOLID WASTE/ RECYCLING IN MIDDLESEX COUNTY
2.84M tons Total waste produced by residents, businesses, and institutions combined
easily dispose of various waste products.” County Commissioner Deputy Director Shanti Narra Chair, Public Safety and Health Committee
Preserving the environment isn’t just about tossing a can into a bin — it’s about taking simple, everyday steps that collectively make a big difference. In Middlesex County, those steps are supported by robust solid waste and recycling programs designed to make proper recycling not only accessible but easy for every resident. WHY RESPONSIBLE DISPOSAL MATTERS From busy downtowns to quiet suburban neighborhoods, residents play a critical role in safeguarding the places they live, work, and play. Recycling remains one of the most effective ways to reduce landfill waste, conserve natural resources, and prevent harmful materials from entering local waterways. When litter enters storm drains, it can travel directly into rivers and streams, threatening wildlife and polluting the ecosystems that make Middlesex County a vibrant place to call home. To make responsible disposal second nature, the County provides clear guidelines for sorting and preparing materials, including paper, plastics, electronics, and household hazardous waste, along with convenient drop-off centers and regularly scheduled curbside collection services. Middlesex County also hosts recycling events throughout the year, focusing on hazardous waste disposal and paper shredding. These efforts help ensure that recyclables are actually recycled — and not mistakenly placed in the trash.
18 lbs Average waste generated per person, per day
VISIT THE RECYCLE COACH APP for pickup schedules, recycling reminders, and a helpful “what goes where” search tool.
12.6 lbs Average material recycled per person, per day
To learn more or to become a Conservation Corps volunteer, please Contact Julia DeRosso at 732-745-8147 or Julia.DeRosso@co.middlesex.nj.us. Sustainability is, at its core, a community effort. Middlesex County continues to lead the way by offering education, resources, and volunteer opportunities that empower residents to protect their environment today and ensure a greener tomorrow. For more information about recycling programs, cleanup events, preventing pollution in stormwater, and ways to get involved, please visit MiddlesexCountyNJ.gov/recycle and MiddlesexCountyNJ.gov/stormwater .
VOLUNTEER POWER: KEEPING NEW JERSEY CLEAN Recycling is only one chapter in the County’s larger environmental story. Every spring and fall, Middlesex County volunteers participate in shoreline cleanups as part of Clean Ocean Action’s statewide Beach Sweeps. Since the program began in 1985, more than 8.7 million pieces of debris have been removed from New Jersey’s coastline. These events not only protect marine life and water quality but also underscore the tangible impact of community action in the real world. Visit CleanOceanAction.org for information about 2026 Beach Sweeps. The Middlesex County Conservation Corps offers another hands-on opportunity for residents to support local ecosystems. In 2024 alone, volunteers planted 35 native trees and shrubs within Ireland Brook Conservation Area and seeded hundreds of wildflowers at Thompson Park — efforts that strengthen habitats and preserve the natural beauty of County parks and open spaces.
5.4 lbs Average waste disposed of per person, per day
PROTECTING OUR FUTURE One Recycled Item at a Time How Middlesex County is increasing recycling participation, reducing litter, and preserving the environment for generations to come
THE TAKEAWAY Middlesex County residents recycle more than they throw away — a strong indicator of positive habits — but there’s still room to improve recycling accuracy and participation in County sustainability programs.
Source: Middlesex County Division of Solid Waste Management, 2022
COME TO A COUNTY RECYCLING EVENT!
County volunteers clear debris and beautify Middlesex County beaches during annual Beach Sweeps
10 Your Middlesex | 2026 Issue 1
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