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Recycling and Waste Prevention

The Recycling Division is responsible for promoting recycling and waste prevention (reduction and reuse). Baltimore County's only active landfill, Eastern Sanitary Landfill, is already more than half full. Learn more about how we can preserve the life of the County's landfill by reducing our waste and recycling as much as possible.

Residential Single Stream Recycling Program

The Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) receives, sorts and prepares single stream recyclable materials (a mixture of paper, plastic and metal items) for marketing. By marketing the recyclables, the County is able to retain the value of these materials and maximize the financial benefits of its single stream recycling program. You have a direct impact on the County’s success—the more you recycle, the more money the County will earn.

Request a Tour of the MRF

At the MRF, workers are stationed along the conveyor belts to screen out material missed by the sorting equipment, which includes 86 conveyor belts, six sorting screens, three optical sorters and two balers. Watch a video to learn more or request a free, public tour of the MRF.

Request a Presentation

To request a recycling presentation or waste prevention information, call 410-887-2790.

For Businesses

Although the County does not offer recycling collection service to businesses, the Bureau offers advice and guidance to businesses interested in recycling. This includes making presentations about recycling and, in some cases, allowing businesses with advance permission to drop off recyclable paper, cardboard, aluminum, steel and plastic items at one of the County's three drop-off centers.

Clean Green Baltimore County

Learn more about how you can help you reduce your environmental impact by participating in Clean Green Baltimore County initiatives, like planting trees, participating in community cleanups, recycling, switching to renewable energy and more. 

Read The Resource Newsletter

The Resource is Baltimore County's Solid Waste reduction, reuse, recycling and refuse disposal newsletter. Read the most recent and past issues online.

Subscribe to Receive the Newsletter in Your Inbox

Residents can subscribe to the Bureau's email list to receive this monthly newsletter and additional Bureau-related updates in their inbox.

Suggest an Article Topic

If you have a suggestion for an article that you would like to see in The Resource, email recycle@baltimorecountymd.gov.

 

Intern with Us

The Bureau of Solid Waste Management offers paid internships, with a focus on promoting recycling in Baltimore County. The internship starts at $11 per hour, while academic credit is also available (depending on college and university requirements). Flexible start dates and length of internship are available to accommodate academics, jobs and other commitments.

The Bureau accepts resumes on an ongoing basis from motivated, talented individuals with an interest in recycling and waste prevention. Email your resume and cover letter, including grade point average, to Richard Keller at rkeller@baltimorecountymd.gov. For more information, call 410-887-2791

Interns work closely with Bureau staff promoting recycling, waste prevention and best solid waste management practices. Other benefits include:

  • Purposeful work in an office environment engaging in sustainable practices, as well as a team setting that encourages input and ensures feedback
  • Opportunities to initiate your own projects and the freedom to contribute creatively to newsletter and web content
  • Apply and develop skills in public relations, graphic design, research, writing or other areas
  • The chance to represent the Bureau at public events and educational programs
  • Valuable experience working with various agencies in the County government
  • Visit solid waste and recycling facilities and attend meetings
  • Free garage parking

Publications

Read our publications about recycling, composting, reuse, and the County's collection program.

Explore Recycling

 

Contact Us

Bureau of Solid Waste Management

111 West Chesapeake Avenue
Room 211
Towson, Maryland 21204

Hours

Monday through Friday
8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Phone

Fax

410-887-2931

BALTCOGO311

Chief

Nicholas Rodricks

 

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