Background

Richmond (pop. 210,309), the capital of Virginia and the fifth-largest city in the state, is unique in that it is an independent city — it is not a part of any county within the state. In another unique touch, Richmond’s recyclables are managed by the Central Virginia Waste Management Authority, which oversees solid waste management for 13 local governments within the central Virginia area. CVWMA’s recycling program is the largest in the state, recycling more than 34,000 tons of material annually. Richmonders can participate in the program by purchasing a 96-gallon roll cart for $65 or ordering a free 24-gallon bin (both receptacles support single-stream recycling).

Materials recycled

Paper Including corrugated cardboard, newspaper, magazines, catalogs, computer paper, junk mail, paperboard and paper bags. No food-contaminated items, such as pizza boxes. Plastics Only narrow-neck PETE (plastic #1) or HDPE (plastic #2) bottles are accepted. No caps or lids. Metals Including aluminum cans and steel/tin cans. Glass Clear, brown and green glass jars and bottles are accepted. No lids.

Frequency

Curbside recycling pick-up occurs on a biweekly basis. Carts must be placed curbside by 7 a.m. day of pick-up. A collection schedule is available online.

Other programs

CVWMA offers 32 drop-off recycling locations in 11 cities/counties around the Richmond area. Some of these containers allow for mixed items, such as paper items, plastics, metals and glass, while other locations are only for newspapers, magazines and catalogs. A complete list can be found online. CVWMA hosts many e-waste drop-off events throughout the year. For full details and a schedule of upcoming events, click here. Richmond utilizes seasonal leaf collection. Updated schedules can be found on the city’s website.

More information

Visit the Central Virgnia Waste Management Authority website for more recycling program info.