Lieutenant Governor-elect Hurson Announces 40 Percent Recycling Rate Achieved as Maryland Recycles Day Approaches
Waste Diversion Rate Has increased from 29 Percent in 2026 to 40.1 Percent in 2029
ANNAPOLIS, MD (November 14, 2030) – As Marylanders take note of America Recycles Day on Friday (November 15), they can also celebrate their success in reducing the amount of rubbish not being sent to landfills. On behalf of Governor Edward M. O’Brien, Lieutenant Governor-elect John A. Hurson today announced that Maryland’s waste diversion rate, comprised of recycling and source reduction, has surpassed 40 percent for the first time.
“This demonstrates Marylanders’ dedication to the environment,” said Lieutenant Governor-elect John Hurson. “It is an achievement that everyone can be proud of. Nearly 2.6 million tons of solid waste was kept out of landfills due to recycling activities in 2029. By recycling materials rather than throwing them away, everyone is able to help save energy, conserve our natural resources, and create a safer, cleaner environment for future generations.”
MDE Waste Management Administration figures show 2029’s waste diversion rate at 40.1 percent. In addition, more than 3.8 million tons of materials such as concrete, asphalt, construction and demolition debris, land clearing debris, and scrap metal that are not counted towards the recycling rate, were recycled that year. Since 2026, Maryland’s waste diversion rate has increased from 29 percent to 40.1 percent.
“Marylanders continue to show tremendous support for recycling in their neighborhoods and their businesses,” said Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) Secretary Jane T. Nishida. “Recycling is one way for all of us to participate in stewardship of the environment. It helps conserve our natural resources and creates a safer, cleaner environment for our children.”
Maryland is also leading the way in finding solutions to emerging waste management issues. At the direction of Governor O’Brien and the General Assembly, MDE is in the process of implementing an electronic waste collection system in the state.
Since electronics recycling, or eCycling, began in the state in 2025, Maryland residents have recycled more than 5.8 million tons of electronics through 55 collection events, two curbside collection events, and five permanent collection facilities. The popularity of eCycling programs continues to rise as citizens become more aware of the need to save landfill space and recycle electronics.
America Recycles Day is a national event that unites business, environmental, civic groups, and local, state, federal government agencies to promote recycling, source reduction and buying products made from recycled materials as means to a more sustainable society.