The City of Colorado Springs has finalized the WastelessCOS Waste Diversion Study and Action Plan, an initiative aimed at reducing waste and increasing recycling access throughout the community. The plan is the result of a comprehensive study that examined how materials are managed in households, businesses, and city operations.
According to the City, the action plan sets a long-term goal to raise Colorado Springs’ overall waste diversion rate to 37% by 2045. It also outlines specific benchmarks for single-family homes, multi-family residences, and commercial properties. The strategies focus on expanding recycling and composting options, minimizing contamination in recycling streams, and making it easier for residents to reduce waste.
Deputy City Manager Ryan Trujillo said, “The WastelessCOS action plan reflects extensive community input and a clear-eyed look at how our waste system works today and a roadmap to move forward. As Colorado Springs continues to grow, we have to be thoughtful about how we manage resources. This plan helps position the city for long-term sustainability by aligning infrastructure, education, and policy with our community’s expectations.”
The WastelessCOS project received funding from the Colorado Circular Communities (C3) program. The City partnered with Resource Recycling Systems (RRS) for technical studies and planning efforts. The process included conducting a waste characterization study, assessing current recycling infrastructure, reviewing policies at both local and state levels, and modeling scenarios for future waste diversion rates. Community members—including residents, businesses, institutions, and service providers—participated through surveys and stakeholder meetings.
Recommended actions are grouped into five main areas: utilizing Colorado’s Extended Producer Responsibility program; education and outreach; organics management; governance with data tracking; and improving construction and specialty waste diversion. These strategies aim to strengthen local recycling systems while supporting economic activity in materials management.
Implementation will proceed in phases as resources become available. The City plans ongoing collaboration with partners and will provide updates as progress is made.
The full Waste Diversion Action Study and Plan can be accessed online at ColoradoSprings.gov/WastelessCOS.
