Section Contents

Collection & Management Methods

The most effective approach to Solid Waste Management is a combination of methods.Combination is important because no single approach will solve the challenge. Across the country, many cities and counties have found creative ways to reduce and better manage their municipal solid waste.

Home Chemical Management

Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) such as oil based paints, motor oil, pesticides and lead-acid batteries present a real disposal challenge. While these wastes constitute only a small percentage of the residential waste stream, the potential damage from improper disposal is significant.

Used Electronics

Used electronics represent the fastest growing segment of the municipal waste stream and includes electronic products such as TVs, computers, cell phones, VCRs, and stereos. 

Recycling and Source Reduction

The Houston-Galveston Area Council has a regional goal to reduce the per capita amount of solid waste by 80% by the year 2012.

Through the efforts of cities, counties and schools in our region, we've already seen a significant reduction in the waste stream - from 6.2 to 6.15 pounds per day. That translates into 50,000 tons less in regional landfills.

Construction & Demolition Waste

Up to 38% of the waste stream in the H-GAC region fall under the category construction and demolition (C&D) waste. It is estimated that up to 90% of C&D waste can be diverted from the landfill through reuse or recycling. More...

Pharmaceutical Waste

There are many significant health and environmental risks associated with unused and expired drugs in the home. Without convenient disposal options, unused and expired pharmaceuticals are disposed of by dumping them down the drain, flushing them down toilets, and throwing them in the trash. Disposal of pharmaceuticals in landfills may simply postpone the pollution of surface and ground water. Pharmaceuticals are often both very toxic and resistant to chemical treatment and are frequently discharged from wastewater treatment plants unaltered.

Recycling Centers Online Mapping Tool

Our web-based "Recycling Centers Mapping Tool" allows users to view and find recycling centers within our 13-county region.

Regional Recycling Roundtables

H-GAC hosts quarterly regional recycling roundtables, sponsored by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, to promote recycling and waste reduction and provide a forum for discussion about recycling issues within the H-GAC region.