Murfreesboro, TN - A powerful new short documentary, Waste to Wages, is sparking fresh conversation across Tennessee about the future of recycling—and the economic opportunity buried in our trash. Produced by the Tennessee Environmental Council, the film lays out a bold, bipartisan roadmap for turning the state’s landfill crisis into a job-creating, supply-chain-strengthening solution.

Recycling Rises to the Top

As cities across the Volunteer State overhaul their solid waste programs, recycling is no longer a side note—it’s becoming central to Tennessee’s future. “We’re wasting materials that could be powering Tennessee’s economy,” says Ryan Scott, co-director of the film. “This is about solving real problems with real jobs.”

The documentary champions the idea of a circular economy—one where waste isn’t just discarded, but repurposed to fuel local industries. The council’s vision doesn’t rely on new taxes, but rather on smarter infrastructure investments and public education.

Middle Point’s Closure Sparks Urgency

The looming closure of Middle Point Landfill in Rutherford County has accelerated the need for change. With limited recycling services in many areas, counties like Rutherford, Cannon, Coffee, and Warren are banding together to find long-term solutions. A new Solid Waste Transfer Station in Murfreesboro is part of that strategy, helping manage local trash more efficiently and reduce landfill dependency.

Donna Barrett: Leading the Charge

One of the most vocal advocates is Donna Barrett, a member of the Central Tennessee Solid Waste Planning Board. She’s helping lead the Recycle Right Tennessee initiative, which teaches residents how to recycle properly and reduce contamination. Barrett has also taken her message to the state level, urging lawmakers to update the outdated 1991 Solid Waste Management Act.

“This is a legitimate crisis,” Barrett told lawmakers. “We need hard timelines, a task force, and a comprehensive bill.”

A Movement with Momentum

With resources like RecycleRightTN.com and growing community engagement, Tennessee is on the cusp of a recycling revolution.

For residents in Murfreesboro and beyond, the message is clear: recycling isn’t just good for the planet—it’s good for the economy.

And if the video documentary Waste to Wages has anything to say about it, Tennessee might just become a national leader in turning yesterday’s trash into tomorrow’s treasure.