Corpus Christi recycling program diverts more than one ton of waste from landfill at major events

A new grant-funded effort collected recyclable materials at Earth Day-Bay Day, the Buc Days Night Parade, and Beach to Bay for the first time.

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — Corpus Christi’s Solid Waste Services Recycling Program collected more than 1 ton of recyclable materials at three of the city’s largest annual events this year, helping divert waste from local landfills through a new grant-funded initiative.

The effort was made possible through a Can’d Aid Crush It Crusade Grant, which allowed the city to offer recycling collection for the first time at Earth Day-Bay Day, the Buc Days Night Parade and the Beach to Bay Relay Marathon.

City officials said nearly 100,000 people attended the events. In total, crews collected more than 5.5 tons of trash and recyclable materials. More than 1 ton was recyclable, including about 1,000 pounds of aluminum cans.

According to the city, roughly 20% of all materials collected at the events were diverted from the landfill through recycling efforts.

Solid Waste Services Director Philip Aldridge said the program’s early success is helping the city build partnerships with local organizations and expand recycling opportunities at future events.

At Earth Day-Bay Day, organizers introduced recycling collection for the first time. City officials said plans are already underway to expand recycling efforts and encourage the use of more recyclable and compostable materials at future events.

During the Buc Days Night Parade, Solid Waste Services distributed reusable recycling bags and collected materials throughout the event. Organizers have invited the city to return next year and expand recycling efforts across additional festival activities.

At the Beach to Bay Relay Marathon, crews collected aluminum cans, cardboard and plastic bottles at the finish-line celebration. Event organizers have also invited the city back, with plans to increase volunteer participation and add more collection stations.

The city said the grant program will continue supporting recycling efforts at community events throughout the 2027 fiscal year.