Austin Resource Recovery

Are you ready to build a zero-waste workplace? Can your multifamily community help support a greener future? There are many benefits to thinking more sustainably beyond keeping materials out of landfill.

• Save money by reducing what you buy

• Create a safer, more organized workplace and multifamily community

• Stand out from your competition

• Build a stronger work culture and more engaged employees or residents

Why are your actions so important? 85% of Austin’s landfill waste comes from businesses and multifamily communities. Over 80% of that waste is reusable, recyclable, or compostable. Together we can make Austin an even better place to live and work. 

37 percent compostable, 26 percent recyclable, 19 percent hard to recycle and landfill, and 18 percent recoverable and reusable.
  1. Start a Green Team
    • Encourage employees, coworkers or residents to participate and empower them to reduce waste and recycle better. Give rewards or recognition that inspire a more sustainable culture.
  2. Reduce paper use
    • Take steps toward a paperless policy when possible. Provide email receipts or change processes to reduce printing. Buy 100% recycled paper for required printing.
  3. Review purchases and processes to reduce waste 
    • Find vendors that offer take-back programs for materials like pallets, buckets, and plastic packaging. Provide single-use items including napkins and utensils by request only to reduce your inventory costs and waste bill.
  4. Collect batteries and electronics
    • Set up bins for batteries and electronics. Austin and Travis County residents can schedule an appointment to drop them off for free at Austin’s Recycle and Reuse Drop-off Center.
  5. Collect plastic bags and film
    • Plastic bags and film cannot be recycled in your blue bin. Set up a separate bin in a convenient place to gather these materials. Use the Austin Reuse Directory to find where to drop them off.
  1. Buy durable and repair broken items
    • Buy energy-efficient appliances with multi-year warrantees or high-quality furniture made with durable materials to reduce costs over time. Austin Energy has rebates and incentives to help you make smart energy choices and save money. 
  2. Buy used or rent items
    • Buy used furniture and appliances or rent equipment to reduce costs. Use the Austin Reuse Directory to find where to rent or buy responsibly while supporting our local reuse economy.
  3. Collect and donate used items
    • Schedule recurring collection days and ask employees, coworkers or residents to bring in items for donation. Use the Austin Reuse Directory to find where to donate items.
  4. Switch from single-use plastics to reusable options
    • Ditch single-use cups, plates, and utensils for reusable mugs and dishware. Apply for up to $1,800 in rebates to make the switch. Encourage employees, coworkers or residents to bring their own coffee mugs.
  5. Start composting

Are you already building a more sustainable workplace? Share what has worked for you to inspire others to follow your lead.

Start composting

Rebates available to build a more sustainable business

  • Get up to $3,000 in rebates to start your journey to becoming a zero-waste business or multifamily community. 
  • Learn more and apply online.
  • Rebate limitations and other restrictions apply.

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Learn more about the City of Austin’s Universal Recycling Ordinance.


Use the What Do I Do With tool as a guide to recycling, reusing, and composting.

Here are 10 Ideas to Get Started