Waste Diversion
Waste Reduction Division The City of Detroit is dedicated to minimizing waste and promoting sustainability through the Detroit Climate Strategy. This division focuses on working across city departments and local partners to expand recycling, reducing food waste, and increase composting efforts. By advancing a circular economy—where materials are reused, and waste is minimized—Detroit is building a cleaner, greener future for all.
Resources
Current Initiatives
Detroit Recycles
Led by the Department of Public Works (DPW), Detroit Recycles is our citywide initiative to improve recycling efforts, making it easier for residents to participate in sustainable waste management. This program promotes accessible recycling options across the city, with a focus on increasing awareness and engagement. Learn more.
Household Hazardous Waste Drop-off
Nearly every item found in your garage, basement, kitchen, bathroom cupboards and home office that you know doesn’t belong in the regular trash. Poisons, solvents, heavy metals, and other toxic products should never be poured down a drain or thrown into the trash. These items will only be accepted at: 2000 E. Ferry Street (near I-75 and I-94) CITY OF DETROIT HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE 2018.pdf
Food Scrap Drop-Off
We are working to establish a citywide composting program, including food scrap drop-off sites, to reduce food waste. This program is a direct response to the climate strategy’s emphasis on reducing landfill waste and promoting composting as a method of sustainability. Did you know? Michigan's statewide goal is to cut food waste in half by 2030. This goal is part of the state's MI Healthy Climate Plan, which aims to make Michigan carbon neutral by 2050.
Ban the Ban Advocacy
We are actively advocating for the reversal of policies that hinder waste reduction efforts, including bans on critical composting and recycling programs. We are advocating for the repeal of Michigan's current law, Public Act 389, which prevents local communities from enacting measures to regulate or ban single-use plastic items. This policy limits our ability to address the issue of single-use plastic pollution, specifically plastic bags, much of which ends up in our waterways, contributing to the 22 million pounds of plastic polluting the Great Lakes each year. To learn more visit here Detroit City Council Unanimously Backs State Bill to Repeal Plastic Container Preemption Law, Paving the Way for Local Environmental Action | City of Detroit
Waste Management Planning
Did you know? In March of 2023, Part 115 of Michigan's Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act (PA 451) to regulate solid waste disposal and management. The updates require All Michigan counties to replace their Solid Waste Management Plans with Material Management Plans that sustainable practices like recycling and composting. The Office of Sustainability is monitoring local waste management practices and plans to ensure they align with Detroit’s broader climate goals. Learn more about the plan requirements: Materials Management Planning | Environmental Services
Bring Your Own (BYO) Initiative
If you see this sticker, that means this business welcomes reusable containers! Help reduce single-use waste by bringing your own. If you are interested in getting your business on the BYO map contact SEMI via email: [email protected]
