Oregon modernises recycling with new rules to tackle plastic pollution

Oregon modernises recycling with new rules to tackle plastic pollution

Sustainability

The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has introduced new rules under the Plastic Pollution and Recycling Modernization Act, a significant step aimed at improving recycling systems statewide while addressing the environmental challenges posed by plastic waste.

First legislated in 2021 as Senate Bill 582, this initiative seeks to modernise recycling infrastructure and reduce the environmental impacts associated with paper, packaging, and food serviceware.

These changes will expand recycling services across Oregon, upgrade sorting facilities, and introduce environmental and social benefits by tackling issues like plastic pollution. Under the updated system, producers and manufacturers will bear much of the financial responsibility for these improvements. The rules also include provisions for performance standards at recycling facilities, the introduction of fees to fund infrastructure and support reuse programmes, and mechanisms to incentivise manufacturers to reduce the environmental impact of their products.

Leah Feldon, DEQ director, said: Oregon has long been recognized as a leader in recycling. The Recycling Modernization Act will make recycling easier for households and bring greater transparency and accountability to the system, so people and businesses know when they set something out for recycling it actually gets safely recycled.

The DEQ highlights that these measures are part of a broader strategy to create a more efficient and sustainable recycling system while promoting accountability among producers.

Cheryl Grabham, DEQ Materials Management Program manager, said: The new rules set a solid foundation for important updates to Oregon’s recycling system. Combined with many other milestones achieved, we are primed for a successful rolling launch to bring modern, convenient, responsible recycling to Oregon.

By integrating environmental impact assessments and encouraging reuse over recycling, the programme aims to deliver long-term benefits to Oregon's waste management framework.

Latest Packaging News

Reusables.com raises $2.6 million to expand smart reusable packaging technology
Business

Reusables.com raises $2.6 million to expand smart reusable packaging technology

Reusables.com has announced the successful closure of a $2.6 million USD (£2.1 million) seed...
Aopack BM2800-Max revolutionises custom box production for e-commerce manufacturer
Supplier News

Aopack BM2800-Max revolutionises custom box production for e-commerce manufacturer

In April 2025, Chinese packaging automation leader Aopack made waves in the industry with the...
Jenton Group: Soken Engineering celebrates a successful Foodex 2025
Supplier News

Jenton Group: Soken Engineering celebrates a successful Foodex 2025

The company’s stand saw significant interest in its range of heat sealing solutions, particularly...
AI-powered paper cup recycling trial launches in Cardiff
Sustainability

AI-powered paper cup recycling trial launches in Cardiff

A new pilot scheme using artificial intelligence to improve paper cup recycling has launched in...
U.S. pet retailers recycle over 30 tonnes of packaging in Earth Day milestone
Sustainability

U.S. pet retailers recycle over 30 tonnes of packaging in Earth Day milestone

To mark Earth Day 2025 (22 April), U.S.-based pet retailers Pet Supplies Plus and Wag N' Wash have...