Reports

Attention Nevada Businesses: Nevada will be using a new internal database called the Sustainability Measurement and Reporting Tool (SMART) to collect recycling rate data from businesses and state agencies in 2023. Visit our guidance page for more information on who should report, how to report, and frequently asked questions: State Agency and Business Reporting.

Annual Recycling Rate Data

In order to generate a report that accurately reflects the state of recycling in Nevada, the Nevada Division of Environmental Protection (NDEP) collects recycling data annually. All Nevada counties are strongly encouraged to participate in this survey. Counties with populations greater than 45,000 are required to participate in this survey.  

Per NAC 444A.110-140, Nevada counties that have an approved recycling plan are required to report the amount of materials diverted from landfills through recycling, with the goal of reaching a recycling rate of 25% two years after implementation. The recycling rate is calculated by taking the ratio of municipal solid waste (MSW) recycled to tons of MSW generated, which includes recyclables and household and commercially generated waste (solid waste imported from other states is not used to calculate the recycling rate). To determine the recycling rate, data is collected from reports submitted by Carson City, Clark, Douglas, Elko, Nye, and Washoe counties — the counties that have adopted recycling programs and, according to the 2020 census, have over 90% of Nevada’s population. 

To determine the recycling rate, data is collected from reports submitted by Carson City, Clark, Douglas, Elko, Nye, and Washoe county recyclers. Because these counties represent over 90% of Nevada’s population (according to the 2020 census), recyclers in these counties are required to submit recycling data. For more information on how to report your business’s recycling data, visit our State Agency and Business Reporting page.

In 2019 Douglas County recycled 57% of its waste—mainly through composting organic matter. Carson City recycled 36% of its waste, due in part to its new single-stream recycling and organics collection programs. Washoe County’s recycling rate was 33%. Clark County, with the largest population, reported a 20% recycling rate. Keep up the good work Nevadans. Together we can make a difference. 

Due to the changeover to a new database for recycling and solid waste data, 2023 Nevada Recycling data will be avialable in the Winter of 2023.

2022 - Coming soon

2021 Nevada Recycling Rate: 23.23% - Download the 2021 State Recycling Rate (pdf, 30.7 KB)

2020 Nevada Recycling Rate: 23.34% - Download the 2020 State Recycling Rate (pdf, 31.1 KB)

2019 Nevada Recycling Rate: 21.7% - Download the 2019 State Recycling Rate (pdf, 65.3 KB) 

2018 Nevada Recycling Rate: 22.0% - Download the 2018 State Recycling Rate (pdf, 63.8 KB) 

2017 Nevada Recycling Rate: 21.0%

2016 Nevada Recycling Rate: 20.7% 

2015 Nevada Recycling Rate: 20.8% 

Biennial Recycling Reports

In accordance with statutes (NRS 444A.070 and NRS 444A.110), the director of the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources must submit a biennial report on or before January 31 of each odd-numbered year that details the status of current and proposed programs for the recycling and reuse of waste materials. This report contains information about recycling in Nevada during 2016 and 2017, the statewide recycling rate, and possible directions for recycling in Nevada.

Download the 2023 Legislative Counsel Bureau Report (pdf) 

Download the 2021 Legislative Counsel Bureau Report (pdf) 

Download the 2019 Legislative Counsel Bureau Report (pdf)

Download the 2017 Legislative Counsel Bureau Report (pdf)

2024 Nevada Residential Recycling Knowledge and Perception Survey