RecycleCarver - Carver County Environmental Services

10/21/2026

Just because it’s blue doesn’t mean it belongs in your recycling bin.

We know...it’s frustrating for us too. Despite being sold as “recycling bags,” plastic bags should NOT go in your curbside recycling. Recyclables should go in your cart loose, no bags needed!

Clean, dry plastic bags and film can be recycled separately at participating drop-off locations. Including the Environmental Center and other recycling sites in Carver County.

Misleading product descriptions and recycling claims can make recycling more confusing than it needs to be. If you ever have a question about what goes where, we’re here to help!

https://www.carvercountymn.gov/departments/public-services/environmental-services/recycle/rural-recycling-drop-off-sites

10/20/2026

Do you live in or manage an apartment building, townhouse community, or condominium association? Carver County Environmental Services is now offering grants of up to $5,000 to help improve recycling opportunities for residents.

Funding can be used for projects such as:
• Recycling containers
• Hauling service
• Signs and labels
• Resident education and outreach
• Improving recycling collection areas
• Pilot programs and more

These grants are designed to make recycling easier and more accessible for people living in multifamily housing. Projects that expand organics recycling are also encouraged through funding provided by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency.

Are you a resident who wants better recycling where you live? Talk with your property manager or homeowners' association about applying. Resident groups are also eligible, and Carver County Environmental Services can help you get started.

Learn more and apply: https://www.carvercountymn.gov/departments/public-services/environmental-services/recycle/recycling-grants

10/18/2026

Is your recycling cart overflowing? Good News! In Minnesota waste hauling companies offer additional recycling carts at no additional cost.

10/17/2026

Did you know that an estimated 30-40% of the food supply in the United States is wasted each year?

Here's a helpful tool from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to help you reduce food waste at home by using correct food and beverage storage practices to preserve freshness as long as possible.

The FoodKeeper can help consumers use food while at peak quality and reduce waste and understand food and beverages storage.

10/16/2026

With all the buzzwords we see on packaging, it can be difficult to determine what is or is not actually compostable. If you're trying to host a zero waste get together, make sure and look for the Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI) certification.

Before you buy, try out their easy-to-use search tool to find compostable food ware at stores near you.

Biodegradable Products Institute provides certification services for compostable products. BPI-certified products meet ASTM D6400 or D6868 testing standards to certify they will biodegrade in a managed compost facility.

10/15/2026

Don’t be afraid of a little dirt—composting is easier than you think!

When you recycle organics, you’re building healthier oil and keeping nutrients where they belong. It’s a simple way to reduce waste and make a big difference… and it’s available near you.

Find a drop site near you and start making that small difference that counts.

https://www.carvercountymn.gov/departments/public-services/environmental-services/organics-yard-waste/residential-organics

Brought to you by the Minnesota Composting Council

10/14/2026

To much cardboard? Flattening your boxes will help you pack more in your cart. You can also request additional recycling carts which your curbside hauler should provide at no additional charge.

If you do need to visit one of Carver County's recycling sites, please keep in mind that cardboard volumes have skyrocketed and flattening boxes before placing them in the bins will make it easier for your neighbors to toss theirs in too!

There are also two additional cardboard drop off locations in Victoria, and Chanhassen,

For a complete list of county drop off locations visit: https://www.carvercountymn.gov/departments/public-services/environmental-services/recycle/rural-recycling-drop-off-sites

10/13/2026

In an exciting initiative aimed at reducing waste by promoting borrowing over buying and repair over disposal. The SouthWest Metro Lending Library is now open in Chaska.

Supported with grant funding from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and Carver County Environmental Services, this innovative resource offers residents a chance to access a wide range of tools and other useful items, making DIY projects, home repairs, and outdoor activities more accessible than ever.

For information and instructions on becoming a member visit the link below.

https://southwestmetrolendinglibrary.org/