Since 1989, mandatory state agency recycling programs have grown from programs in which aluminum cans and office paper were generally the only materials collected. Now many state agencies routinely recycle through the Department of General Services and through individual collection contracts for items such as all paper grades, magazines and books, plastic beverage containers, toner cartridges, and metal,   In the past Virginia state agencies have reported an average recycling rate of 30 percent.

DEQ and the Department of General Services work together to provide recycling and surplus property guidance information.  Such guidance includes market and recycling content information, resource information or referrals, program development and implementation assistance, and related state policies and procedures.

State Agency Recycling Legislation

• Section 10.1-1425.6: Recycling duties of state agencies
• Section 2.2-4323: Purchase programs for recycled goods; agency responsibilities
• Section 2.2-4326: Preference for recycled paper and paper products used by state agencies
• Section 2.2-4313: Petition Department of General Services for recycled goods and products; periodic review of procurement standards
• Section 2.2-4324: Preference for Virginia products with recycled content and for Virginia firms