Benton County and Republic Services host webinar to explain upcoming recycling changes
Benton County and Republic Services are partnering to host a webinar about statewide changes to recycling guidelines and access set to take effect on July 1. Anyone can register through Zoom to watch the virtual presentation scheduled for Tuesday, June 10 from 6-7 p.m.
All community members are invited to participate and learn how Oregon’s recycling system is changing, why it is changing and what residents need to know to recycle right moving forward. Time will be provided for questions about the new recycling rules and how they are being implemented in Benton County.
The July 1 changes are results of Oregon’s Plastic Pollution and Recycling Modernization Act (RMA) passed in 2021. The RMA aims to reduce plastic pollution, improve access to recycling and create more sustainable waste management practices across the state.
“With the RMA, Oregon is a leader in creating a more efficient, equitable and effective recycling system,” says Bailey Payne, solid waste program coordinator for the County. “Working together with Republic Services, we can reach more people through outreach and education, thereby increasing the impact of these changes.”
The RMA is intended to modernize the state’s recycling system and make it more robust. Key components include:
- Incentives for producers to use more recyclable materials in packaging.
- A single, statewide list of recyclable materials to reduce confusion and expand what can be recycled in many parts of the state.
- Access to recycling in all communities, including multifamily housing units and rural areas.
- New performance standards and accountability practices for recycling facilities.
Those who wish to view the webinar can register online. A recording of the webinar will be posted to Benton County’s YouTube channel.
