Bales of compressed plastic bottles and containers stacked in a recycling facility.

Choctaw Nation Hits Major Environmental Milestone with 50 Million Pounds Recycled

Published October 8, 2025

DURANT, Okla. – The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma (CNO) Recycling Department has announced CNO recycling centers have processed over 50 million pounds of materials. These efforts reflect the Nation’s long-term dedication to sustainability, waste reduction, and protecting natural resources.

“This achievement is a testament to our values and reflects our responsibility to care for the land,” said Tracy Horst, CNO Director of Environmental Compliance. “Our recycling efforts are rooted in our Chahta spirit of respect for the environment and our communities. “

Established in 2007, The Choctaw Nation’s recycling initiative was developed to reduce landfill waste and encourage tribal members and employees to practice environmentally sustainable habits.

The CNO Environmental Protection Service (EPS) division oversees the Nation’s environmental programs and credits much of the success to community involvement and tribal leadership support.

“This accomplishment wouldn’t be possible without the participation of our Choctaw community, partners, and dedicated team members,” said Tye Baker, Senior Director of Environmental Protection Service.

Looking ahead, the Choctaw Nation plans to further expand its green initiatives including reducing energy consumption, limiting single use plastics, and increased educational outreach to promote sustainability throughout southeastern Oklahoma.

For more information on the Choctaw Nation’s environmental programs or to find a recycling center near you, visit the Recycling Centers service page.