Baldwin County Commission Recognized by the National Association of Counties for the New Material Recovery Facility’s Role in Resource Responsibly and Economic Development

The Baldwin County Commission has been awarded a 2025 National Association of Counties Achievement Award recognizing innovative county government programs in the Community and Economic Development category.

The Award highlights the new $25 million, 62,000-square-foot Material Recovery Facility MRF) that processes up to 40,000 tons of recyclables annually. By diverting these materials from landfills, the MRF advances environmental sustainability while supplying clean, reusable feedstock to local manufacturers.

Many factors contribute to a community’s ability to achieve sustainable, healthy growth. The MRF is one of those factors. Thankfully, five years ago, the Commission’s vision, along with a Solid Waste Director’s leadership started a journey of research and partner-building to bring this resource to Baldwin County, which will not only enhance protecting our limited resources but provide an economic resource. Such a realization became very apparent when Novelis, a global leading expert in recycling aluminum, selected Baldwin County to build one of the largest recycled aluminum rolling plants in the world.

Commissioner Billie Jo Underwood stated: “Recycling is more than waste management—it’s a long-term investment in our environment and economy. Including an education component at the MRF ensures we’re not only processing materials but also preparing future generations to value and protect our resources.”

Terri Graham, CEO of the Solid Waste Disposal Authority, added: “The Baldwin County Material Recovery Facility is more than just an investment, it’s a commitment. Together, we are reshaping the environmental future of the entire Gulf Coast region through a shared dedication to sustainability. By acting today, we aim to support a more resilient, circular economy; one that provides sustainable resources for manufacturers across our state. Relying on raw materials can become a thing of the past. The future lies in reuse, recycling, and responsible innovation.”

The Baldwin County Commission is strategically committed to preserving the community’s resources while providing economic opportunities, creating a well-balanced, high-quality community to work, live and play.

For more information, please fill out a media request submission form at:
https://baldwincountyal.gov/departments/county-administration/media-request.