Waste Reduction and Recycling

The Sedgwick County Environmental Resources office is the primary contact for information about trash and recycling services in Sedgwick County. While recycling is important, residents should try to reduce the items they generate first. If items can't be reduced or reused, then recycling is the next best option.

Simple Waste Reduction Tips

  • Reduce unwanted mail: According to some sources, the average American receives more than 40 pounds of junk mail every year. While recycling it is a good choice, reducing it is even better. Check out Rethink Recycling for more details.
  • Bring your own canvas bag: Instead of saying yes to paper or plastic, bring your own bag to stores, especially the grocery store.
  • Avoid buying bottled water: You can't always avoid it, but if you make a practice of using durable reusable water bottles or straw cups, you will find you rarely buy bottled water anymore.
  • Use durable products rather than disposables: Instead of using paper products, use your dishes instead. Even when you have a party, make it a "green party" by using durable products whenever possible. This is also important in the workplace when hosting meetings with snacks.
  • Eliminate food waste: Food is too good to waste and Americans waste about 25% of all food and drinks they buy, costing us nearly $1,600 annually. Save money and eliminate this waste by planning meals before you make your grocery list. Another tip is to designate a shelf in your refrigerator for leftovers, labeling it "eat me first."

Sedgwick County Recycling Guide

In Sedgwick County, homeowners and businesses can recycle most items, except household trash. Many residents have access to single stream curbside recycling for a matter of a few dollars a month. Browse the recycling guide and find out what and where items can be recycled locally.

Household Hazardous Waste

The local Household Hazardous Waste collection facility takes items like paints, chemicals, batteries, used oil, and even garden chemicals. If you have old paint or other items that cannot be used for its intended purpose, bring it to this facility and it will either be repurposed, or properly disposed of.

Important Links

Contact Info

Have Questions? Contact:

Sedgwick County
Water and Environment
7001 W. 21st St. North
Wichita KS 67205-1759
(316) 660-0143
Fax (316)722-1432

Nancy Larson, RS
Director Pollution Prevention Institute
(316) 660-0104
nlarson@ksu.edu

Jackie Fees
Office Professional Ag & Hort
(316) 660-0143
jfees@ksu.edu