CEC Monthly Meeting: Policy Solutions for a Circular Texas

7/29/2026
5:30 PM - 7:00 PM Central

Register for this Event

CEC Sponsored Event

Join Citizens' Environmental Coalition for an engaging panel discussion exploring policy tools that may increase recycling, reduce plastic pollution and promote a more circular economy in Texas. The expert panel will introduce container deposit systems, waste fees and extended producer responsibility (EPR) laws, what we can learn from other states and jurisdictions that have implemented these programs and what may be the best tools for Houston and Texas. 

This event is generously sponsored by the Consulate General of the Federal Republic of Germany. Venue generously provided by Adaapta.

Houston faces real challenges when it comes to recycling and plastic pollution threatening our health, nature, wallets and quality of life.

• The city’s recycling rate is estimated at only about 18%, below both the statewide (23%)  and national recycling rates (32%), while contamination in Houston’s recycling stream is over 40% compared to the national average of 25%.
• Galveston Bay holds one of the highest concentrations of microplastics in the United States, with researchers estimating 20.4 trillion of pieces of plastic debris in its surface waters. 
• Houston’s McCarty landfill could reach capacity in just nine years. Building a new landfill would take approximately 15 years and would likely be located farther from the city — increasing costs, truck traffic, and pollution.

These local realities underscore the need to look beyond changing individual behavior and explore policy tools that can improve material use and recovery, minimize single-use plastics and packaging, and encourage circular design by holding consumer packaged goods companies and their supply chain accountable.

Panelists:
Beth Martin, Environment Texas
Adrian Hernandez, State of Texas Recycling Alliance 

Moderator: 
Steve Stelzer, Citizens’ Environmental Coalition

Our monthly meetings are FREE for CEC members and guests to attend. Registration is encouraged to help us plan for seating and refreshments.

Refreshments will be provided. Please help us be a green event by bringing your reusable water bottle. 
 

Setting: In-Person
Headquarters
3302 Canal St
Houston, TX 77003

Click here for Google Maps

CEC
(phone: 713-524-4232)

Frequently Asked Questions

Who should attend?
This event is designed for sustainability professionals, community advocates, local government staff, students, educators, nonprofit leaders, businesses, and concerned residents who want to better understand policy solutions to improve recycling infrastructure, promote more efficient material use, and design for reuse in Houston and Texas.

Is the event free?
Yes! This event is free to attend. 

Do I need to register?
Please register to help us plan for refreshments. As a green event, we want to avoid excessive food waste.

Is registration restricted to CEC members?
Guests are warmly welcomed to attend. We welcome anyone interested in this topic to come and learn.

Where do I park?
Park in Headquarter's surface parking lots. 
 

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7/29/2026

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July 2026 Monthly Meeting