Benton County residents will have the opportunity to learn about statewide changes to Oregon’s recycling system during a free webinar next week as new statewide guidelines prepare to take effect July 1.
The county is partnering with Republic Services to host the virtual information session Tuesday, June 10, from 6-7 p.m. The presentation will cover what the changes mean for local residents and how the new rules will be implemented in Benton County.
The upcoming changes stem from the Oregon’s Plastic Pollution and Recycling Modernization Act, which was passed by the State Legislature in 2021. The comprehensive legislation aims to reduce plastic pollution while improving recycling access and creating more sustainable waste management practices statewide.
“With the RMA, Oregon is a leader in creating a more efficient, equitable and effective recycling system,” Bailey Payne, solid waste program coordinator for Benton County, said through a news release. “Working together with Republic Services, we can reach more people through outreach and education, thereby increasing the impact of these changes.”
The modernization act introduces several key reforms designed to make recycling more consistent and accessible across Oregon. Beginning July 1, the state will implement a single, statewide list of recyclable materials, eliminating confusion that has varied by region and expanding what can be recycled in many communities.
The legislation also requires recycling access in all communities, including multifamily housing complexes and rural areas that have historically lacked convenient options. Additionally, the act creates incentives for manufacturers to use more recyclable materials in their packaging and establishes new performance standards for recycling facilities.
Community members interested in attending the webinar can register online through Zoom. The county plans to record the session and post it to Benton County’s YouTube channel for those unable to attend the live presentation.
Time will be allocated during the webinar for residents to ask questions about the new recycling rules and their local implementation.