Chattanooga Launches Pilot Program for Curbside Composting and Glass Recycling

A NewTerra Compost truck and collection bin. (Photo/Chattamatters – Ian-Alijah Bey)

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The city of Chattanooga has taken a significant step toward environmental sustainability by approving a new pilot program offering curbside composting and glass recycling services. City Council members approved two agreements aimed at making it easier for residents to recycle and reduce waste.

Under the pilot initiative, residents living in neighborhoods around Brainerd Road and Lee Highway may now be eligible to participate in FREE curbside pickup of food scraps and glass bottles. The city has partnered with NewTerra Compost and Overlooked Materials, a local glass recycling company, to provide containers and collection services.

NewTerra will also set up additional recycling containers at the city’s five recycling centers, which are accessible to all residents within Chattanooga city limits. Overlooked Materials will coordinate glass collection at these centers, encouraging more residents to recycle their bottles and jars.

City officials emphasize that this pilot program is a vital step toward more sustainable waste management practices.

The pilot program is budgeted at $150,000 in city funds, supplemented by $105,000 from the state. Residents interested in participating can check eligibility for curbside composting and sign up for a compost bin here. Similarly, residents can register for curbside glass recycling programs and find out more about drop-off options at local recycling centers here.

The program is set to run for an initial period of one year, with plans for potential expansion based on its success.

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