Waste Disposal Raleigh NC

Garbage, Recycling and Yard Waste

Last updated Jun. 06, 2017 - 2:28 pm

The City of Raleigh Solid Waste Services Department provides reliable waste management solutions to the Raleigh community through residential curbside collection and a variety of specialized services. The Department works proactively to reduce waste and to increase recycling in Raleigh, while demonstrating a commitment to sustainability in all areas of its operations.

Garbage Program

The goal of the Residential (Garbage) Division of the Solid Waste Services (SWS) Department is to safely and efficiently collect residential solid waste and dispose of it at the county landfill. Responsibilities include:

Yard Waste Program

The city of Raleigh Yard Waste Center, which opened in 1992, serves as the recycling center for yard waste collected by city crews as part of the Solid Waste Services Department’s curbside collection program. Items such as grass clippings, shrubbery trimmings, leaves, limbs, logs, brush, pine straw, and hay are recycled into wood chips, mulch and compost, which are then made available to the general public for purchase. In addition to yard waste collected, the center also accepts yard waste from the public for a nominal fee. The yard waste must be generated inside the Raleigh city limits.

Public Speaking and Outreach

Solid Waste Services staff are available to speak to schools, civic groups, neighborhood associations or Scout troops about solid waste issues. Presentations available on:

• recycling
• backyard composting
• vermicomposting

Staff members welcome the opportunity to participate in school science fairs, career days and Earth Day events. In addition, a specialist can provide literature or advice to Girl and Boy Scouts working on environmental badges.

An Education Specialist will tailor a program to meet the needs of any group, from kindergarten students through senior citizens.

Accolades

LEED Platinum Facility
The award-winning Wilders Grove Solid Waste Services Facility was constructed on a portion of the 260-acre city-owned parcel that includes the former Wilders Grove Landfill and the city’s solid waste transfer facility. The SWS Facility, completed in March 2012, is LEED Platinum certified. It reduces energy consumption by more than 40 percent using renewable geothermal energy, LED lighting, solar photo voltaic panels and a web-based building control system. Recycled building materials were incorporated throughout construction of the facility and nearly 95 percent of construction waste was diverted from landfills. Wilders Grove is home to the department’s administrative offices and most operations functions.

Vision and Values

Mission: To create a safe, efficient and effective waste management, disposal and recycling system that protects the natural environment while supporting the City of Raleigh's vision to achieve a sustainable future.