Keep Texas Beautiful said it will expand its Keep Texas Recycling program into rural West Texas in 2027. The expansion is funded by a $50,000 gift from Tito's Handmade Vodka.
The gift will help set up a regional recycling hub so communities can collect and process recyclable materials. The group said a shared recycling network will address the challenges of long distances and limited infrastructure in the area.
The organization also offers a free Making WAVES curriculum for grades 9–12. It links biology, art and environmental science to litter's effects on Texas waterways. Two teachers who use the curriculum, encourage student participation and submit feedback by January 31, 2027, will be randomly selected to receive a $1,000 Ruthe Jackson Youth and Educator Award. A Making WAVES art and slogan contest for Texas high school students opens December 1.