The City of Phoenix has goals to reach 50% waste diversion by 2030 and zero waste by 2050, consistent with the goals set by the City’s Climate Action Plan. To reach these goals, Phoenix seeks to develop the circular economy and maximize recycling and reuse efforts to further divert resources away from the landfill.
Our efforts will lessen environmental impacts by reducing the amount of greenhouse gases entering the atmosphere while creating healthier communities and spurring economic activity.
The Zero Waste team is a great source of recycling education and information for residents and businesses. Please visit the Residential Recycling page for more information about the city's programs.
New Program! Become a Master Recycler
In order to reach the city's zero waste goal by 2050, the Zero Waste team provides education and community outreach to teach the public about waste diversion. These methods include group tours of the city's North Gateway Transfer Station and Materials Recovery Facility (MRF), educational presentations at schools, neighborhood and community meetings, and hosting informational booths at community events.
The Zero Waste team hosts tours of North Gateway Transfer Station, where the Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) is located. The MRF is where recyclables are both hand-sorted and machine-sorted.
Tour times:
9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
11:00 a.m. - Noon
Noon - 1:00 p.m.
Important Notes:
Tours take place on Thursdays and must be scheduled at least three weeks in advance. Tours last approximately one hour. Your tour group may be combined with another group. Your scheduled tour will start on time. Please arrive at least 5 minutes early to your tour. If you need to cancel your tour, we require 24 hours’ notice.
The Zero Waste team provides presentations to various organizations including schools, neighborhoods, community groups and businesses. Presentations discuss what is recyclable in Phoenix, why it is important and how you can participate. Presentations typically last between 20-30 minutes, but can be modified upon request.
The Zero Waste team participates in various community events all over Phoenix to inform residents about the city of Phoenix zero waste goal by 2050. Please contact us if you would like us to host an informational table at your event!
Become a Master Recycler and help Phoenix achieve zero waste by 2050. Learn effective ways to reduce waste, recycle correctly, and inspire eco-friendly habits in your community. Gain expert insights, participate in local events, and be a part of positive changes in your neighborhood. Send completed application to zerowaste@phoenix.gov.
The Zero Waste team is available to train Phoenix businesses on best recycling practices. Presentations explain how to recycle right and how to ensure maximum participation in the business's recycling program. Presentations last between 20-30 minutes.
The Phoenix Green Business program is a program specifically designed for businesses that take an initiative on sustainability within their workplace. The program is free to businesses and offers many benefits, including social media recognition by the city, a window decal and annual invitation to an exclusive recognition event.
Recycle+ is a great source of resources, activities, and information about zero waste, recycling, composting, and more!
Zero is a big deal (literally) when it comes to teaching kids how to recycle right. He also comes from a long line of sustainable predecessors.
Please fill out the following zero waste request form to request the Zero Waste team to give a presentation to your group, table at your event, or request a tour of the city's recycling facility. One of our team members will reach out to confirm the details of your request.
If you have questions about scheduling a presentation, event tabling or recycling facility tour, please contact the Zero Waste team at (602) 534-0405.
Note: If you have general questions about your trash service, would like to make service changes or would like to request a replacement or repair of your containers, please call (602) 262-6251 or submit a request online.