
About Us
A Legacy of Service, A Vision for Sustainability

Our Philosophy
At Groot Industries, we’re committed to delivering exceptional waste management services while focusing on sustainability and customer satisfaction.
Our philosophy has evolved alongside modern waste practices, prioritizing integrated solid waste management—minimizing waste through recycling, source reduction, and efficient handling of materials like electronic waste and construction debris.
Locally operated, we ensure personalized attention to customer needs and strive to create meaningful opportunities through Groot careers.

Our History
The company and its subsidiaries have provided solid waste collection and other vital public services to northeastern Illinois municipalities and businesses since 1914. Our company represents over 100 years of experience in this business.
The methods of managing solid waste have changed significantly. In the past, managing solid waste focused on collection and disposal. Today there is a focus on integrated solid waste management, including source reduction of waste, recycling, landscape waste management, and a multitude of special items including electronic waste, white goods, fluorescent lamps, and construction and demolition debris.
The goal of integrated waste management is to minimize, to the extent practical, the amount of waste that must ultimately be disposed. Groot Industries has the experience not only in collecting solid waste, but also in processing and marketing a wide range of materials.
Northern Illinois represents Groot's market niche. This is an advantage because our attention is not diverted from our customers' needs by projects in other regions or states. Moreover, as a local company, we can better assure the attention of all levels of management is on the needs of our customers.
Being locally operated, we have a strong interest in your level of satisfaction with our service. We believe we are uniquely positioned to be of service to you. Please contact us today.

Leading the Way in Environmental Innovation
At Groot Industries, environmental stewardship is at the heart of everything we do. For over a century, we've committed to building sustainable solutions that make a lasting impact. From spearheading northern Illinois’ first curbside recycling programs in 1986 to designing state-of-the-art Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs), Groot has consistently set industry benchmarks.
Sustainability isn’t just a goal; it’s our legacy. We were the first waste management company in Illinois to use biodiesel fuels and later transitioned to compressed natural gas (CNG), achieving significant reductions in carbon emissions. Our investments in fleet technology, waste-to-energy systems, and energy-efficient operations reflect our dedication to minimizing environmental impact.
Discover how Groot transforms waste into sustainable solutions, championing a greener, cleaner future for all.
Roots of Groot: Honoring a Century of Service
Step back in time and explore Groot Industries' rich history through our gallery of historic photos. From vintage trucks to early community service initiatives, these images showcase our journey of innovation, commitment, and service to the Chicagoland area.
Click on any image to see the full gallery!