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Recycling researchers want input from Abilene residents

The ACU Wildlife Society, Wildcats for Sustainability, and the Inland Ocean Coalition volunteers cleaning Lake Kirby Park.
Colton McCaleb
The ACU Wildlife Society, Wildcats for Sustainability, and the Inland Ocean Coalition volunteers cleaning Lake Kirby Park in 2022.

Recycling rates in Texas reveal that it is one of the more wasteful states in the nation. At 23%, the statewide rate falls well below the national average of 34%.

Abilene is one of eight Texas cities participating in a survey aiming to collect data on residential solid waste and recycling. The city runs ten drop-off recycling centers. Residents can also opt for private recycling pickup through Good Earth Recycling.

University of North Texas Professor of Anthropology Jamie Johnson is leading the effort. She says researchers hope to develop better education and outreach to reduce recycling contamination, “The responses there in are going to be heard by the Lone Star Chapter of the Solid Waste Association of North America, how Abilene residents feel about solid waste and recycling and perhaps how their city might be able to serve them better.”

Researchers want responses from residents living in single-family homes. The survey will be open until the end of November.