Business Details
39 Years
experience
Tulsa's Premier Recycling & Environmental Education Trust
Founded in 1987, the Metropolitan Environmental (The M.e.t.) has dedicated over three decades to advancing environmental responsibility through education and community engagement. Our organization operates eight recycling centers across seven member communities, serving residents and businesses with comprehensive recycling solutions. We collaborate with 10 local governments to ensure regulatory compliance while promoting sustainable practices that reduce waste streams. Our hazardous waste collection programs, including Oklahoma's first biannual pollutant collection events, have diverted thousands of pounds of toxic materials from landfills.We employ 75 individuals with disabilities, integrating workforce development with environmental stewardship. Through educational resources, public awareness campaigns, and specialized collection events, we empower communities to adopt eco-conscious habits. Our annual Tulsa-area recycling directory connects residents with local recycling services, while our voucher program facilitates household pollutant disposal. With a board representing diverse municipalities, we combine technical expertise in waste management with policy leadership to shape Oklahoma's environmental future.
Services
Recycling Centers
Hazardous Waste Disposal
Educational Programs
Event Recycling Support
Community Cleanup Services
Details
- Year established: 1987
Highlights and features
- 30+ years of environmental stewardship experience in Oklahoma
- 8 strategically located recycling centers serving 10 member communities
- Employment program supporting 75 individuals with disabilities
- Pioneered Oklahoma's first hazardous waste collection initiatives
- Comprehensive educational resources for schools and local governments
Services
Recycling Centers
Our network of eight recycling centers accepts aluminum cans, plastics #1-2, glass bottles, paper products, and electronics. We provide convenient drop-off locations for residential recyclables while creating employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities through sorting operations.
Hazardous Waste Disposal
We manage proper disposal of household hazardous waste including chemicals, medications, mercury, and automotive fluids. Our voucher program grants member communities access to Tulsa's Household Pollutant Collection Facility, continuing our legacy as Oklahoma's first hazardous waste collection authority.
Educational Programs
We develop educational resources for schools and local governments while organizing community events like America Recycles Day. Our initiatives include informational series on waste reduction and partnerships with environmental coalitions to promote sustainable practices.
Event Recycling Support
We provide recycling solutions for community events, festivals, and public gatherings. Our bin loan program ensures proper waste management at local functions while supporting organizers through our established network of environmental partners.
Community Cleanup Services
We organize large-scale cleanup initiatives like the Turley Community Cleanup Day and Enviro Expo. These events combine waste collection with public education, addressing litter prevention and proper disposal methods through hands-on community participation.
People
Ellen Bussert
Board Member
Representing Bixby on the board, Ellen brings 20 years of environmental policy experience from Oklahoma DEQ. A recycling coalition founder, she has supported The M.e.t. since its inception in 1987.
Derek Campbell
Board Member
Sand Springs' City Engineer oversees all municipal environmental operations. With engineering and MBA degrees, he manages 75 employees while serving on regional transportation policy committees.
James Rea
Board Member
Tulsa County Deputy Commissioner combines legal expertise with environmental leadership. A Navy veteran, he holds multiple advanced degrees and previously advised county officials on environmental litigation.
Terry Ball
Board Member
Tulsa's Streets and Stormwater Director manages solid waste agreements and infrastructure projects. As a licensed engineer, he leads 300 employees while implementing citywide environmental compliance measures.
David White
Board Member
Claremore's Public Works Project Manager holds a Masters in Public Administration. With 15+ years of municipal experience, he advocates for environmental responsibility through infrastructure development and policy implementation.
Questions
What materials can I recycle at The M.e.t. centers?
Our centers accept aluminum cans, plastics #1-2, glass bottles, newspapers, office paper, magazines, phone books, batteries, oil, and antifreeze. Check our website for specific location details.
How do I dispose of household hazardous waste?
Through our voucher program, member communities can access Tulsa's Household Pollutant Collection Facility twice weekly. Visit our website for facility location and accepted materials.
Do you offer recycling education for schools?
We provide educational resources and programs for schools, including classroom materials and hands-on recycling demonstrations. Contact us to schedule a presentation or field trip.
Where are your recycling centers located?
We operate centers in Bixby, Broken Arrow, Claremore, Collinsville, Glenpool, Sand Springs, Central Tulsa, Downtown Tulsa, and Owasso. View our website for specific addresses and hours.
What happens to recycled materials?
Collected materials are sorted at our centers then processed for reuse in manufacturing. Our employment program integrates material handling with job training for individuals with disabilities.
