JONESBORO, Ark. — Jonesboro has been recognized for its environmental efforts, earning the 2026 Government Recycler of the Year award at the Arkansas Recycling Convention.
Sanitation Director Patrick Courtois credited the city’s community-wide participation for the achievement. "If you want our city to continue to look good and continue to grow, you have to get involved," Courtois said. "That’s the bottom line."
Over the past year, Jonesboro collected over 26,000 pounds of cardboard and filled four large roll-off containers with recycled glass, according to city officials. Much of the success stemmed from expanded drop-off recycling options and special community events aimed at responsibly disposing of bulk items like household junk.
Despite the recognition, Courtois noted that only about 33% of Jonesboro's approximate 82,000 residents actively recycle, leaving room for growth.
City leaders underscored the broader benefits of recycling as well. Mayor Harold Copenhaver attributed the accomplishment to city employees’ dedication and innovative approaches to waste management. “It’s not only an honor for the city, but it’s also an honor for the employees of the city,” Copenhaver said. “This is their due diligence, their hard work, their creativity with ideas.”
Recycling also offers financial advantages, officials noted, by reducing landfill disposal costs. Over time, these savings ease pressure on both the city budget and taxpayers.
The City of Jonesboro has vowed to continue finding ways to engage more residents in environmental stewardship while building on its current programs.