Baldwin County, Ala. — (OBA) — Baldwin County has received a major honor for its efforts to improve recycling and protect the environment. The county’s new Material Recovery Facility (MRF) was recognized by the National Association of Counties for its positive impact on the community. The MRF is helping Baldwin County become a leader in both sustainability and economic growth. Local officials say the facility is an important step toward a cleaner and more resilient future for everyone in the area.

On July 14, 2025, the Baldwin County Commission announced that it had received a National Association of Counties Achievement Award. The award was given in the Community and Economic Development category. The new MRF is a $25 million, 62,000-square-foot building that can process up to 40,000 tons of recyclables every year. By keeping these materials out of landfills, the facility helps the environment and provides clean materials to local manufacturers.

The project began about five years ago, when the Commission and the Solid Waste Director started planning and building partnerships. Their goal was to bring a modern recycling center to Baldwin County. The MRF is already making a difference, not just by handling waste, but also by attracting new businesses to the area. One example is Novelis, a global leader in aluminum recycling, which chose Baldwin County for one of the world’s largest recycled aluminum rolling plants.

Leaders in Baldwin County believe the MRF is more than just a building. Commissioner Billie Jo Underwood said recycling is a long-term investment in both the environment and the economy. She explained that the MRF includes an education program to help teach people, especially young people, about the importance of recycling and protecting resources..

Terri Graham, CEO of the Solid Waste Disposal Authority, said the new facility shows Baldwin County’s commitment to sustainability. She believes the MRF is helping to shape a better future for the whole Gulf Coast region. The focus is on creating a circular economy, where materials are reused and recycled instead of relying on new raw materials.

The Baldwin County Commission says it will keep working to balance growth, protect natural resources, and create new opportunities for residents. The new Material Recovery Facility is a key part of that plan, helping Baldwin County stay a great place to live, work, and play.