Mexico City is entering a new stage in waste collection. Starting January 1, 2026, all households must separate their waste correctly for it to be collected. This change aims to improve cleanliness, increase recycling, and protect the environment.
Here’s everything you need to know to comply with the new rules.
1. Types of Waste and Containers
You must separate your waste into three main categories, each with its colored container:
| Type of Waste | What It Includes | Container Color |
|---|---|---|
| Organic | Food scraps, garden waste | Green |
| Recyclable | Paper, cardboard, plastic, glass, metals, aluminum, cans, clothing, textiles, wood, Tetra Pak containers | Gray |
| Non-recyclable | Sanitary waste, used tissues, toilet paper, condoms, sanitary pads, cotton swabs, band-aids, diapers, tampons | Orange |
Official Containers and Awareness Campaign
- The city government will provide three containers per household (one for each type of waste).
- A door-to-door awareness campaign will start in Azcapotzalco and later expand to the rest of the boroughs.
- Garbage trucks will play an informative song to remind citizens about proper separation and collection days.
💡 Practical tip: In addition to the official containers, you can also use your own containers at home as long as they are clearly labeled with the corresponding colors.
2. Collection Days
Each type of waste is collected on specific days:
Organic Waste (Green)
- Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday
Recyclable Waste (Gray)
- Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday
- Large recyclable items will only be collected on Sunday
Non-recyclable Waste (Orange)
- Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday
❗ Important: If you mix the waste or put it out on the wrong day, the garbage truck will not collect it.
3. Fines and Oversight
Currently, there are no monetary fines for not separating waste, but:
- The Integrated Waste Management Agency (AGIR) will supervise waste collection and disposal.
- Waste that is not properly separated will remain at home until the next correct collection day.
- The campaign focuses on education and environmental awareness, encouraging citizens to separate waste correctly at home.
4. How to Organize Waste Separation at Home
- Label your containers: Green, Gray, and Orange.
- Use small containers inside your home to separate waste in the kitchen or bathroom.
- Rinse recyclables to prevent odors and pests.
- Compost organic waste if you have a garden or space for it.
- Create a family calendar with collection days for each type of waste.
- Teach everyone at home which waste goes in which container.
5. Benefits of Separating Waste
- Less waste sent to landfills.
- Increased recycling and material reuse.
- Contribution to the “Zero Waste” program and the circular economy.
- Improved cleanliness and environmental quality in the city.
✅ Practical Summary
- Separate organic, recyclable, and non-recyclable waste.
- Use color-coded containers.
- Respect the collection days for each type of waste.
- Be consistent and educate your family.
Following these rules ensures your waste is collected correctly and helps make Mexico City a cleaner and more sustainable city.
