Background

Baton Rouge, LA (pop. 230,058), is at the center of a metropolitan statistical area exceeding 800,000 residents — the second most populated area in the state behind greater New Orleans. But, it may have the state’s most impressive recycling network, combining a single-stream curbside recycling program with an ever-growing web of drop-off points for all-things recyclable, including e-waste, household hazardous waste and much more. The recycling program, which currently sports an approximate 40% diversion rate, uses 64-gallon roll carts for its weekly collection.

Materials recycled

Paper Junk mail, coupons, white and colored paper, gift wrap, envelopes, paper grocery bags, shopping bags (remove handles), catalogs, magazines, newspapers and inserts, paperback books, telephone books, clean drink cartons (no lids/caps), paperboard, corrugated cardboard, paper egg cartons and shredded paper are accepted. Plastics Plastics number 1 through 7, including drinking bottles, rinsed food containers, detergent bottles, shampoo bottles, prescription vials, baby wipe containers, emptied and rinsed household cleaner/bleach bottles, flower pots and buckets (5 gallons or smaller with metal handles removed). No polystyrene, plastic bags, bubble wrap, plastic film and lids/caps. Metals Aluminum cans, tin/steel cans and metal lids are accepted. All items must be empty and rinsed. Glass Clear, brown and green beverage bottles and food jars (emptied and rinsed) and wine bottles (remove top, cork and foil and rinse) are accepted.

Frequency

Curbside recycling pick-up occurs weekly based upon location in the city. Carts may be curbside no earlier than 6 p.m. the evening prior to collection and no later than 5 a.m. on collection day to ensure pick-up. Carts should be 3 feet from any obstructions, including accompanying garbage cart. A collection map is available online.

Other programs

Household hazardous waste collection days regularly occur in Baton Rouge for safe, convenient drop-off of items like paint, batteries, household cleaners and much more. Consult the Baton Rouge Recycling Office website below for the latest info. Electronic waste items can be dropped off for safe, responsible recycling at the Capital Area Corporate Recycling Council office (1400 Main St.) Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. For information on which items are accepted and applicable fees, visit the CACRC website. Christmas trees are collected for reuse at the curb every January following the holiday. Baton Rouge residents looking to get rid of personal items but avoid the trash can use the Red Stick Free-Use Network, a free service that connects locals giving items away with those looking for them.

More information

Visit the City of Baton Rouge Recycling Office website for more recycling program info.