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Recycling & Sustainability in Columbus

Columbus is proud to be a forward-thinking city dedicated to environmental stewardship. As the host city for SWANA’s RCon, we’re excited to showcase our local efforts in recycling, sustainability and climate action. With key partners like Rumpke and the Solid Waste Authority of Central Ohio (SWACO) leading the charge, and with initiatives woven throughout city operations—including the Greater Columbus Convention Center—you’ll find that sustainability is not just a goal here, it’s a way of life.

Trailblazers in Waste Innovation

Columbus is home to two major players in the waste and recycling landscape:

Woman holding recycling bin full of items being sorted

Rumpke Waste & Recycling

Rumpke’s state-of-the-art Recycling & Resource Center in Columbus processes 250 tons of material per day and features advanced technology to sort recyclables more efficiently and cleanly.

SWACO (Solid Waste Authority of Central Ohio)

SWACO aims to improve the solid waste stream and reduce reliance on landfills in Frankin County through public education, grant programs, partnerships and more.

A Citywide Commitment

Led by the Mayor’s Office, Sustainable Columbus is the city’s strategic framework for building a more resilient future. The initiative spans energy, housing, mobility, food and waste with a vision to ensure all Columbus residents have access to clean air, clean water and a stable climate. A few highlighted efforts include:

Sustainable Conventions

The Greater Columbus Convention Center (GCCC) has earned national recognition for its commitment to sustainable operations. Here’s how the facility is going green:

The Smart Farm inside the Greater Columbus Convention Center

First of its kind in a convention center

Indoor Hydroponic Smart Farm

All disposable service items are composted

Single-Stream Recycling Program

100% of energy usage is offset with renewable energy

Energy Efficiency

Man filling up reusable water bottle under kitchen faucet

Low-flow water fixtures and drip lines

Water Conservation

Learn More about GCCC Green Initiatives

Be a Part of Columbus’ Sustainable Story

Whether it’s sorting recyclables in your hotel, refilling your water bottle at a hydration station, or supporting local green businesses, every action counts. Here are a few ways you can stay green during your visit:

Use your hotel’s recycling and towel reuse programs
Walk, bike or take public transit—many routes are just steps from the Greater Columbus Convention Center
Support GreenSpot-certified restaurants

Together, we can make a lasting impact.