Require Minnesota Public Schools with over 1,000 students to contract with state-certified recycling service providers

for the proper collection, sorting, and recycling of recyclable materials generated on school grounds.

 

The purpose of this bill is to increase waste diversion and recycling rates in Minnesota public schools, standardize

recycling practices among school districts, reduce landfill waste, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

 

The 2050 projected total waste generation is around 3.78 billion metric tons. Waste generation leads to pollution and

depletion of natural resources. Minnesota’s existing recycling laws vary in implementation across school districts. Many

schools lack consistent recycling services and maintenance. Large schools (over 1,000 students) generate significantly

higher waste volumes and have greater operational capacity to implement this system.

 

“Total waste generation” (metric tons): The amount of discarded materials measured globally, internationally, or

domestically.

“Recyclable materials”: include paper, cardboard, plastics #1-#5, aluminum, and glass.

“Public school”: Any elementary, middle, or secondary school funded by state funds.

“MCPA”: Minnesota Pollution Control Agency

“Certification”: MCPA-issued authorization confirming compliance with state recycling and reporting standards.

“Certified Recycling Service provider”: Any company or organization engaged in the collection, sorting, or processing of

recycling materials, certified by the MPCA.

“Minnesota School Recycling Grant Fund”: Supports schools in implementing and improving waste reduction and recycling

programs by funding a variety of purchases and projects. Offered by individual Minnesota Counties.

“Solid Waste Management Tax”: A statewide tax collected annually for Waste Management. Collects about 113 million

dollars per year.

 

 

Use of the Minnesota School Recycling Grant Fund and 0.1% of the statewide Solid Waste Management tax (roughly $113,700,

estimating $3,000 - $10,000 per Minnesota public school).

 

Schools failing to contract with a certified provider or submit annual recycling reports by the deadline shall be

subject to a written warning on the first offense, a fine of up to $500 per school for continued noncompliance after 90

days.

 

August 1st, 2026