Public Education, Infrastructure, and Local Partnerships
Strengthening Recycling in Muskegon County
Recycling in Muskegon County is evolving. Over the past four years, the West Michigan Environmental Action Council (WMEAC) has led a collaborative effort to improve recycling education, expand access, and build long-term solutions—working alongside local governments, nonprofits, and community leaders.
This work was supported by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) through its EDA Technical Assistance Grant Program, which provided free technical assistance from Resource Recycling Systems (RRS). Funds were provided by the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. Practical tools and a beginning roadmap for building a more coordinated and sustainable recycling system across the county were created.
♻️ Proposed Recycling Infrastructure: A Hub-and-Spoke Concept
To improve long-term recycling access and efficiency, WMEAC and RRS developed a proposed hub-and-spoke infrastructure model. While still conceptual, it serves as a starting point for future planning and collaboration.
Key features include:
- Centralized hub drop-off locations supported by smaller satellite sites
- Expanded access for rural communities and multifamily housing
- Service enhancements for areas without curbside collection
Opportunities for regional cost-sharing and coordination
Local Partnerships: Collaboration in Action ur Heading Text Here
A core element of this project was the formation of a Recycling Leadership Team made up of committed community leaders, municipal officials, and regional advocates. This team helped guide project decisions and strengthen local collaboration.
At our final stakeholder meeting, we proudly highlighted:
- Cedar Creek Township, for opening its recycling center to Holton Township residents—a model of inter-township cooperation
- The White Lake Area Solid Waste Authority (WLASWA), for providing consistent leadership and service in the White Lake region
These efforts reflect the importance of community-driven partnerships in creating more equitable and effective recycling systems.
🌎 Regional Impact: Supporting the 5-County Materials Management Plan
All project strategies and materials were developed in alignment with the 5-county Regional Materials Management Planning (RMMP) process, led by the West Michigan Shoreline Regional Development Commission (WMSRDC) and Muskegon County.
This project helps position Muskegon County as a regional leader in future-oriented materials management planning.
At our final stakeholder meeting, we proudly highlighted:
- Cedar Creek Township, for opening its recycling center to Holton Township residents—a model of inter-township cooperation
- The White Lake Area Solid Waste Authority (WLASWA), for providing consistent leadership and service in the White Lake region
These efforts reflect the importance of community-driven partnerships in creating more equitable and effective recycling systems.
🚀 The Path Forward
The public education toolkit and proposed infrastructure model developed through this project are now available to support schools, municipalities, and organizations across Muskegon County. These tools are practical, flexible, and ready to support long-term improvements in local recycling systems.
With continued collaboration, we can increase participation, reduce waste, and build a smarter, more connected system that serves everyone in Muskegon County.
Acknowledgments
Project Supported By:
- Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE)
– through the EDA Technical Assistance Grant Program, which provided free technical assistance from Resource Recycling Systems (RRS) - Community Foundation for Muskegon County
Key Partners:
- Resource Recycling Systems (RRS) – Infrastructure modeling and education plan development
- Muskegon County Recycling Leadership Team – A dedicated group of local leaders and volunteers committed to advancing recycling throughout the county
