Recycling Reform

We can do this, Port Ludlow – Rethink, Reduce, Reuse, Repurpose, RECYCLE

Finally, some encouraging news regarding recycling! It has been a confusing journey for many home and business recyclers, especially those from cities where recycling programs are easy to access due to proximity to repurposing plants. The remoteness of Jefferson County puts its residents at a disadvantage. But some relief is in the not-too-distant future, thanks to the work of the Washington State Legislature and a tireless group of advocates.

The WA state producer responsibility bill, known as the Recycling Reform Act, created an Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) system for packaging and paper products. Signed into law in May 2025, it shifts the financial and operational responsibility for recycling to the producers of these materials, aiming to fund statewide recycling services, improve recycling rates, and ensure more materials are recycled. Producers must join or form a Producer Responsibility Organization (PRO) by July 1, 2026, to manage these programs, with the goal of having the PROs finance at least 90% of recycling costs by 2030. 

With producers shouldering responsibility for recycling of packaging (cardboard, paper, plastic, metal or glass), the cost to consumers for recycling should be greatly reduced. This, of course, will not be in time to delay the upcoming changes in Jefferson County recycling set to begin on April 1. However, with producers working together to collect, transport, and repurpose packaging of all types, residents should find more options for moving recyclables from home to recycling centers. Ease of disposal for recyclable goods will decrease the amount of refuse landing in the Jefferson County transfer station where it then must be transported to southeast Washington. The cost of transporting Jefferson County’s refuse from home to final landfill location (300 miles!) is staggering.

Everythingresidents put in their trash cans must travel first to the landfill, then a distance greater than driving from Seattle to Eugene, OR –everything! Thus, the need for making recycling convenient, affordable, and desirable.