City to end recycling program on August 1

On August 1, 2023, the city of Douglas will discontinue its curbside recycling service. The city began the residential curbside service in 2013 to continue to provide recycling options to citizens after recycling centers were continuously contaminated.

“It is unfortunate that due to recycling stream contamination and market forces, we have to end the recycling program,” says City Manager Charles Davis. “Together with GFL Environmental, we would like to thank citizens who participated in the program and who were diligent in utilizing the recycling program correctly.”

The City of Douglas began the recycling program in 2008 and throughout the years has faced challenges primarily the contamination of the recycling stream with food, drink, and other household garbage. When the program began, citizens wishing to recycle would bring their recyclables to recycling centers located throughout Douglas, however, the recycling centers began to be contaminated with non-recyclable materials. Recycling centers were closed in 2013 and citizens who chose to continue recycling could request a recycling cart free of charge. After continuous efforts to educate citizens about the recycling program, many still utilize the recycling cart as an additional household garbage cart.

GFL Environmental will begin the collection of blue recycling carts as soon as possible. Those wishing to keep a second cart should contact the Customer Care Center by dialing 3-1-1 or (912)384-3302 to set up arrangements to keep the cart. Customers who wish to keep the second cart will be charged an additional garbage collection fee.

For more information, please contact the City Manager’s Office at (912)389-3401.