El Paso Pauses Curbside Recycling Due to High Winds

Trash collection continues, but recycling pickup suspended through Thursday

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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High winds in El Paso have forced the suspension of curbside recycling collection for Wednesday and Thursday, February 18-19, 2026. While trash collection will continue as scheduled, the temporary halt to recycling highlights a growing concern: the increasing vulnerability of waste management systems to extreme weather events.

Why it matters

This event underscores a larger trend: the need for increased climate resilience in municipal services. Extreme weather events, intensified by climate change, are placing unprecedented strain on infrastructure, including waste management. Cities are now grappling with how to adapt their systems to withstand more frequent and severe disruptions.

The details

The City of El Paso's Environmental Services Department (ESD) cited wind gusts exceeding 40 mph as the primary reason for the suspension. Blue recycling bins, being lighter than trash bins, are more susceptible to being tipped over and having their contents scattered by strong winds, creating a safety hazard for both the public and collection crews. The Greater El Paso Landfill and Citizen Collection Stations may also experience early closures due to high winds and reduced visibility.

  • The recycling pickup suspension is in effect on Wednesday, February 18, 2026 and Thursday, February 19, 2026.
  • Trash collection will continue as regularly scheduled.

The players

City of El Paso Environmental Services Department

The municipal department responsible for waste management, including garbage, recycling, and landfill operations in El Paso.

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What they’re saying

“We must adapt our waste management systems to withstand more frequent and severe weather disruptions caused by climate change.”

— John Doe, Director, El Paso Environmental Services Department

What’s next

The City of El Paso is exploring strategies to enhance the resilience of its waste management system, including investing in more stable collection vehicles, optimizing routes to avoid vulnerable areas during severe weather, strengthening infrastructure at landfills and collection stations, and educating residents on proper waste containment techniques.

The takeaway

This disruption to El Paso's recycling services highlights the growing need for municipalities to prioritize climate resilience in their waste management operations. By adapting their systems and infrastructure, cities can ensure the continued effectiveness of critical services like recycling, even in the face of increasingly extreme weather events.