NEW ORLEANS, LA - On Tuesday, December 9, 2025, the Quality of Life Committee convened to hear updates on recycling from Glass Half Full and the Department of Sanitation.

Glass Half Full Recycling Updates

Franziska Trautmann, Co-Founder and CEO of Glass Half Full, briefed the Committee on the company’s latest recycling initiatives. Trautmann highlighted the Louisa St. facility as its most popular drop-off site and the central hub for collection and sorting in Greater New Orleans.

Since launching in 2020, Glass Half Full has diverted 12 million pounds of glass and over one million pounds of other recyclables. The company has also completed six successful coastal restoration projects. The organization plans to add more free glass drop-off sites citywide and continue supporting the expansion of curbside recycling.

View the full presentation here.

Department of Sanitation Recycling Updates

Chris Lang from the Office of Resilience & Sustainability outlined the Department of Sanitation’s current recycling efforts. Lang noted that roughly 58% of households have not opted into the recycling cart program, and the department aims to reduce this through community outreach and education.

The Department has secured approximately $5.3 million in federal and non-profit funding to expand curbside recycling for single-family homes by boosting participation, improving education, and developing a 10-year Solid Waste Master Plan. These funds must be spent by March 31, 2026, though the department is seeking an extension.

View the full presentation here.

To view the meeting agenda click here.