Chattanooga, September 23, 2025
News Summary
The Tennessee Environmental Council is organizing a Recycling Roundup in Chattanooga, allowing residents to recycle hard-to-dispose materials. Scheduled for September 27, the event aims to combat litter and promote sustainable waste management. Community members can bring items such as electronics, tires, and glass bottles for recycling and benefit from secure paper shredding services. This initiative has successfully diverted significant waste from landfills, engaging local partners and volunteers to enhance ecological responsibility.
Chattanooga Hosts Recycling Roundup on September 27
The Tennessee Environmental Council (TEC) is organizing a Recycling Roundup event on Saturday, September 27, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The event will take place at 951 Watkins Street in Chattanooga, where community members can bring a variety of hard-to-recycle items.
Items accepted include electronics, tires, blocks of Styrofoam, mattresses, glass bottles, medications, medical supplies, pet supplies, eyeglasses, and more. Additionally, secure paper shredding services will be available at the event. This initiative is free and open to everyone interested in recycling.
The Recycling Roundups Initiative, established in late 2022, has already served nearly 6,000 households across over 24 counties in Tennessee. Over 30 Recycling Roundups have been hosted, supported by more than 600 volunteers and community partners. To date, these events have successfully diverted over 700,000 pounds of material from local landfills.
The primary goal of the Recycling Roundups is to combat litter and illegal dumping while alleviating pressure on local landfills. Funding for the event comes from a grant provided by the Tennessee Department of Transportation. TEC acknowledges the support from partners including Overlooked Materials, City of Chattanooga, Public Works Division, and Chattem Chemicals.
A detailed list of accepted materials and item limitations can be found at tectn.org/chattanoogarecycles. Additionally, those looking to volunteer for the event can sign up at flipcause.com/secure/cause_pdetails/MTc2NTA0.
Background Information
The Recycling Roundups Initiative was created as a response to rising concerns about litter and waste management in Tennessee. Many communities struggle with effective recycling options, especially for items that are not typically accepted in curbside recycling programs. The TEC’s initiative provides an accessible solution, encouraging residents to participate in responsible waste disposal.
This event not only aims to improve recycling rates but also fosters community engagement, allowing residents to come together and contribute towards a cleaner environment. By involving local partners and volunteers, TEC has built a strong network dedicated to ecological responsibility.
FAQ
What is the Recycling Roundup event?
The Recycling Roundup event is organized by the Tennessee Environmental Council (TEC) to allow community members to bring hard-to-recycle items for proper disposal.
When and where is the Recycling Roundup taking place?
The event will be held on Saturday, September 27, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at 951 Watkins Street in Chattanooga.
What items can be brought to the Recycling Roundup?
Community members can bring items including electronics, tires, blocks of Styrofoam, mattresses, glass bottles, medications, medical supplies, pet supplies, eyeglasses, and more.
Is there a cost to attend the Recycling Roundup?
The event is free and open to everyone interested in recycling.
What support has TEC received for this initiative?
TEC received funding for the initiative from a grant provided by the Tennessee Department of Transportation, as well as support from partners including Overlooked Materials, City of Chattanooga, Public Works Division, and Chattem Chemicals.
Key Features of the Recycling Roundup Event
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Date | September 27, 2025 |
| Time | 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. |
| Location | 951 Watkins Street, Chattanooga |
| Accepted Items | Electronics, tires, Styrofoam, mattresses, glass bottles, medications, medical supplies, pet supplies, eyeglasses, and more. |
| Cost | Free |
| Paper Shredding | Secure shredding services available on site. |
| Community Impact | Over 700,000 pounds of material diverted from landfills. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Chattanooga Pulse: Help the Environment with Recycling
- Times Free Press: Commentary on City Improvements
- Recycling Today: TRC Announces 2024 Recycler of the Year Awards
- Times Free Press: Scrap Metal Fire at Chattanooga Recycling
- Times Free Press: Amazon Unveils New Warehouse Robot
- Wikipedia: Recycling
- Google Search: Recycling Initiatives Tennessee
- Google Scholar: Recycling Programs Community
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Recycling
- Google News: Recycling Events Tennessee

Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
The CHATTANOOGA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREChattanooga.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Riverbend Festival, Chattanooga Oktoberfest, and Moon River Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Chattanooga, plus leading businesses in manufacturing, insurance, and utilities that power the local economy such as Volkswagen Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and EPB. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.


