Bend, OR – Starting this summer, Oregonians will begin receiving clear and standardized guidelines about what can and cannot be recycled, thanks to new rules finalized by the Oregon Environmental Quality Commission. This initiative, part of the state’s Plastic Pollution and Recycling Modernization Act, represents a significant step toward simplifying recycling for residents and businesses across the state.
The rules, which will take effect on July 1, mark the culmination of over four years of negotiations and planning. One of the major components of the legislation is the introduction of a uniform list that will inform Oregonians about the recyclability of materials, eliminating confusion that has often led to contamination in recycling bins.
“These new rules will make it easier for Oregonians to recycle correctly, reducing waste and ensuring that recyclable materials are properly processed,” said an official from the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality. The goal is to improve the state’s recycling rates and reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills.
In addition to the public-facing changes, the law includes new requirements for apartment complexes and multi-unit housing. Starting in July, property owners and managers will be required to provide recycling services for their residents. This new obligation is expected to help address a significant gap in Oregon’s recycling system, as apartment dwellers have historically faced barriers to recycling due to a lack of access to dedicated recycling bins and infrastructure.
The act also introduces new fees for companies that sell products in Oregon, based on the weight and recyclability of their packaging. These packaging fees are intended to incentivize businesses to reduce the environmental impact of their packaging, encouraging the use of materials that are easier to recycle and less likely to contribute to plastic pollution.
The move is seen as a comprehensive effort to address plastic pollution, reduce waste, and create a more efficient recycling system in Oregon. The legislation comes at a time when concerns over plastic waste are growing, with the state joining other regions in tightening regulations on packaging materials.
As the law rolls out, Oregon residents and businesses can expect to see more outreach efforts to help them adjust to the changes, including educational campaigns and the distribution of the new recycling guidelines. With these new rules, Oregon hopes to set an example for other states as the nation continues to grapple with the challenges of waste management and environmental sustainability.
