SEATTLE (Recycling Monster): The recycling rate in Montgomery County, Maryland, was 45%, which is much higher than the 32% national average. This confirms that the County is moving in the right direction toward its earlier declared zero waste objectives.

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The County has been building better waste diversion systems at its facilities and expanding its recycling and composting programs. Furthermore, the department's efforts to raise awareness and engage the community have been successful. Data indicates that between 2018 and 2022, the County reduced trash per person by 11%. Additionally, there was a noteworthy 110% increase in plastic recycling between 2020 and 2022.

It intends to transition to more sustainable processes and close its Resource Recovery Facility. To guarantee seamless operations, the present contracts will be temporarily extended in the meantime. April 2026 is when the present contract expires. Alternative waste processing technologies that will lower the overall amount of waste that needs to be disposed of are presently being assessed. The County stated that the Resource Recovery Facility won't be shut down until an alternate solution has been successfully implemented.