Navigating Washington County’s commitment to sustainability involves understanding local programs, accepted materials, and regulations – all designed to minimize environmental impact and foster responsible waste management.
Washington County is deeply committed to environmental stewardship, recognizing that a robust recycling program is crucial for preserving natural resources and reducing landfill waste. This guide serves as a comprehensive resource for residents and businesses seeking to participate effectively in our county-wide recycling initiatives. We aim to divert materials from landfills through convenient drop-off locations and specialized programs.
Our approach emphasizes collaboration, education, and continuous improvement. The county actively partners with local organizations and engages the community to promote responsible recycling habits. Recent discussions, as highlighted by the American Chemistry Council, suggest exploring expanded roles for the county, including new rules for chemical recycling and supporting extended producer responsibility programs. The Board of Commissioners recently celebrated 50 organizations for their “Recycle at Work” achievements, demonstrating a growing commitment to sustainability across various sectors within Washington County.
Understanding Washington County’s Recycling Goals
Washington County’s recycling goals are centered around significantly reducing landfill dependence and maximizing resource recovery. We strive to increase recycling rates through enhanced public awareness campaigns and streamlined collection processes. A key objective is to promote a circular economy, where materials are reused and repurposed rather than discarded as waste. This aligns with broader sustainability efforts and supports environmental protection.
The county actively monitors progress towards these goals, adapting strategies based on data analysis and community feedback. The recognition of 50 “Recycle at Work” organizations demonstrates a commitment to expanding recycling participation within the business community. Furthermore, exploring extended producer responsibility programs, as suggested by the American Chemistry Council, indicates a forward-thinking approach to waste management. Ultimately, our vision is a Washington County where recycling is a convenient, accessible, and integral part of daily life for all residents and businesses.
Accepted Materials
Residents can recycle paper, plastics #1 & #2, aluminum, and steel/tin cans; however, specific preparation guidelines and restrictions apply to each material type.
Paper Recycling Guidelines
Washington County encourages residents to actively participate in paper recycling to conserve valuable resources and reduce landfill waste. Accepted paper items include newspapers, magazines, office paper, and flattened cardboard. Please ensure all paper materials are clean and dry, free from food residue, plastic coatings, or excessive tape. Shredded paper is accepted, but should be contained in a clear plastic bag to prevent it from becoming loose in the recycling stream.
Avoid recycling paper that is contaminated with grease, wax, or non-paper materials. Items like carbon paper, juice boxes, and paper towels are not recyclable through the county program. Proper sorting ensures the efficiency of the recycling process and the quality of the recycled paper products. By following these guidelines, you contribute to a more sustainable Washington County.
Newspapers and Magazines
Washington County residents can readily recycle their newspapers and magazines through the county’s comprehensive recycling program. Both color and black-and-white printed materials are accepted, contributing to a significant reduction in landfill waste. Please remove any plastic bags or wrappers before placing these items in your recycling bin. Inserts, such as glossy advertising flyers, are generally acceptable unless they are heavily laminated or contain non-paper materials.
Magazines with glued or stapled bindings are also recyclable; however, removing excessive staples is appreciated but not required. Maintaining the cleanliness of these materials is crucial – avoid recycling newspapers or magazines that are wet, soiled, or contaminated with food residue. Your diligence ensures the efficient processing and high quality of recycled paper products within Washington County.
Cardboard Recycling Instructions
Washington County encourages residents to recycle cardboard to conserve valuable resources and reduce landfill strain. Accepted cardboard includes corrugated boxes, such as those used for shipping, and paperboard boxes like cereal or shoe boxes. Flatten all cardboard boxes completely before placing them in your recycling bin or taking them to a drop-off location; this maximizes space and efficiency in the recycling process.
Remove all packing materials, including plastic wrap, foam inserts, and tape, from cardboard boxes. While a small amount of tape is generally acceptable, excessive tape can contaminate the recycling stream. Wet or soiled cardboard is not recyclable and should be disposed of with regular trash. Prioritizing clean, flattened cardboard ensures successful recycling and supports Washington County’s sustainability goals.
Office Paper & Mail Recycling
Washington County residents can significantly contribute to recycling efforts by properly disposing of office paper and mail. Accepted items include printer paper, copy paper, envelopes (with or without windows), and non-glossy junk mail. Please remove any plastic windows from envelopes if easily detachable, though it’s not strictly required. Shredded paper is accepted, but it must be contained in a clear plastic bag to prevent it from becoming entangled in the recycling machinery.
Items not accepted include carbon paper, laminated paper, and paper contaminated with food or liquids. Remove any binder clips or rubber bands before recycling. Recycling office paper and mail reduces deforestation and conserves energy. By following these guidelines, you help Washington County maintain a robust and effective recycling program, promoting environmental responsibility within the community.
Plastic Recycling Details
Washington County’s plastic recycling program focuses on plastics labeled with recycling symbols #1 and #2. These commonly include plastic bottles (like water and soda bottles – #1 PET) and milk jugs, detergent bottles (#2 HDPE). All containers must be completely empty, rinsed, and free of lids. Lids should be discarded separately, as they are often made of different plastic types.
Crushing plastic bottles helps save space in your recycling bin. Please do not include plastic bags, Styrofoam, plastic film, or any plastic items not specifically marked with a #1 or #2 recycling symbol. These materials contaminate the recycling stream and can cause entire batches to be rejected. Proper preparation ensures efficient processing and maximizes the benefits of plastic recycling within Washington County, supporting a circular economy.
Accepted Plastic Types (Numbers 1 & 2)
Washington County currently accepts only plastics identified with recycling codes #1 and #2. Code #1 designates Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET or PETE), frequently found in beverage bottles, water bottles, and some food containers. Code #2 signifies High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE), commonly used for milk jugs, detergent bottles, shampoo bottles, and some plastic tubs.
These two plastic types are readily recyclable and have established markets for reprocessing. Other plastic numbers, such as #3 through #7, are generally not accepted in the county’s curbside program due to limited recycling infrastructure and market demand. Focusing on #1 and #2 plastics streamlines the recycling process and improves the quality of recycled materials, contributing to a more sustainable waste management system within Washington County.
Plastic Container Preparation
Proper preparation of plastic containers is crucial for successful recycling in Washington County. Before placing plastics #1 and #2 into your recycling bin, please ensure they are completely empty of all contents. A quick rinse is sufficient; extensive cleaning is not required, but removing food residue prevents contamination.
Replace caps and lids tightly onto the containers. While the plastic type of the container is important, the caps often differ and can cause issues in the sorting process. Flattening plastic bottles and jugs helps maximize space in recycling bins and trucks, increasing efficiency. Remove any non-plastic components, such as pumps or sprayers, as these are not recyclable with the plastic container itself. Following these steps ensures materials are processed effectively.
Metal Recycling Information
Washington County actively encourages the recycling of various metal materials to conserve resources and reduce landfill waste. Aluminum cans are highly valuable and readily recyclable; ensure they are empty and, while rinsing isn’t mandatory, it helps prevent contamination. Steel and tin cans are also accepted, but please remove any paper labels.
Regarding other metal items, restrictions apply. Larger metal objects, like pots and pans, may be accepted at designated drop-off locations – check the county website for specifics. Aerosol cans must be completely empty before recycling. Certain metal items, like scrap metal or appliances, require specialized recycling programs due to their size or potential hazardous components. Always verify acceptance guidelines before including any metal item in your curbside bin.
Aluminum Can Recycling
Aluminum cans represent a highly successful recycling story, and Washington County prioritizes their collection. These cans are infinitely recyclable, meaning they can be processed and returned to shelves as new products with minimal energy loss. Residents are encouraged to empty aluminum beverage cans before placing them in their recycling bins.
While rinsing isn’t strictly required, a quick rinse helps minimize residue and prevents contamination of other recyclable materials. Crushing cans is optional; the county’s processing facilities can handle both flattened and unflattened cans efficiently. Remember to remove any plastic or paper components attached to the cans. Proper aluminum can recycling significantly reduces the need for virgin aluminum production, conserving valuable natural resources and lowering energy consumption.
Steel & Tin Can Recycling
Similar to aluminum, steel and tin cans are valuable recyclable materials within Washington County’s program. These cans, commonly used for food products, can be effectively recycled and repurposed into new steel products, reducing the demand for raw materials like iron ore. Residents should ensure cans are empty of their contents before recycling.
Lightly rinsing the cans is recommended to remove food residue, preventing contamination within the recycling stream. Labels can generally remain on the cans during recycling, as the processing facilities are equipped to handle them. While crushing isn’t necessary, it can help maximize space in recycling bins. Proper recycling of steel and tin cans contributes to resource conservation and a more sustainable waste management system within the county.
Other Metal Recycling (Restrictions Apply)
Washington County accepts certain other metal items for recycling, however, specific restrictions and guidelines apply. These may include items like clean aluminum foil and trays, empty aerosol cans (completely empty and with plastic caps removed), and small metal appliances. Larger metal items, such as appliances like refrigerators or washing machines, typically require special handling and are not accepted in curbside recycling programs.
Residents should check the Washington County’s official recycling website or contact the recycling hotline for a comprehensive list of accepted items and any associated preparation requirements. Improperly disposed of metal can contaminate recycling streams, so adherence to guidelines is crucial. Extended Producer Responsibility programs may also exist for certain metal-containing electronics, offering alternative recycling pathways.
Recycling Drop-off Locations
Convenient options include permanent centers throughout Washington County, alongside periodic temporary events and collection drives for specialized materials and community outreach.
Permanent Recycling Drop-off Centers
Washington County operates several conveniently located, permanent recycling drop-off centers accessible to all residents. These facilities provide a consistent and reliable means of disposing of recyclable materials, promoting responsible waste management practices throughout the community. Each center is equipped to handle a wide range of accepted materials, including paper, plastics (numbers 1 & 2), aluminum, steel, and tin cans.
Locations are strategically placed to maximize accessibility, with centers in Hillsboro, Beaverton, and Forest Grove. Hours of operation vary by location, generally offering service seven days a week, though specific times may differ. Residents are encouraged to check the Washington County website for the most up-to-date information regarding hours and accepted materials at each individual center.
These centers are designed for self-service, allowing residents to directly deposit their sorted recyclables. Clear signage and designated bins are provided to facilitate proper sorting and minimize contamination. Maintaining the purity of recycling streams is crucial for efficient processing and maximizing the value of recovered materials.
Temporary Recycling Events & Collection Drives
In addition to the permanent drop-off centers, Washington County frequently hosts temporary recycling events and collection drives to enhance accessibility and target specific materials. These events provide convenient opportunities for residents to dispose of items not typically accepted at permanent locations, such as household hazardous waste or electronics (e-waste).
Scheduled events are widely publicized through the county website, local media outlets, and social media channels. These drives often focus on specific themes, like electronics recycling or shredding events, offering specialized disposal solutions. Participation is generally free for Washington County residents, though some events may have quantity limits or require pre-registration.
Collection drives are also organized in partnership with local community groups and schools, further expanding recycling access throughout the county. These collaborative efforts promote environmental awareness and encourage active participation in sustainable waste management practices. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about upcoming events to maximize their recycling efforts.
Special Recycling Programs
Washington County offers specialized programs for electronics, hazardous waste, and yard debris, extending beyond standard recycling to address unique disposal needs effectively.
Electronics Recycling (E-Waste)
Washington County recognizes the growing concern surrounding electronic waste, or e-waste, and provides residents with several avenues for responsible disposal. Due to the hazardous materials contained within electronics – such as lead, mercury, and cadmium – simply discarding them in the trash poses significant environmental risks.
The county actively promotes diverting e-waste from landfills through designated collection events and permanent drop-off locations. Accepted items typically include computers, monitors, televisions, printers, cell phones, and other small electronic devices.
Residents are encouraged to erase all personal data from devices before recycling. Specific guidelines regarding data security and accepted item lists are available on the Washington County website. Furthermore, the American Chemistry Council highlights the importance of extended producer responsibility programs, which may influence future e-waste management strategies within the county, potentially involving manufacturers in the recycling process.
Household Hazardous Waste Disposal
Protecting both human health and the environment requires careful handling of household hazardous waste (HHW). Washington County offers dedicated programs for the safe disposal of items that cannot be thrown in regular trash or recycling bins. These materials, including paints, solvents, pesticides, batteries, and cleaning products, contain potentially harmful chemicals.
The county hosts periodic HHW collection events throughout the year, providing residents with convenient opportunities to drop off these items. Detailed schedules and accepted materials lists are published on the official Washington County website. Proper packaging and labeling are crucial for safe transport.
The American Chemistry Council advocates for expanded roles for local governments, including establishing rules for chemical recycling, which could impact HHW processing. Residents should never pour HHW down drains or into the ground, as this contaminates water sources and poses serious risks.
Yard Debris Recycling & Composting
Washington County actively promotes responsible management of yard debris, offering residents several options for recycling and composting. Grass clippings, leaves, branches, and garden waste can be diverted from landfills, reducing waste and creating valuable resources. Residents can participate in curbside yard debris collection programs, where available, or utilize designated drop-off locations.
Composting is highly encouraged as a sustainable practice. Home composting transforms yard waste into nutrient-rich soil amendment for gardens and landscaping. The county provides educational resources and workshops on effective composting techniques.
Proper preparation of yard debris is essential; remove any non-organic materials like plastic bags or containers. Utilizing these programs supports the county’s broader recycling goals and contributes to a healthier environment, aligning with initiatives for extended producer responsibility.
Recycling Regulations & Updates
Staying informed about Washington County’s ordinances and recent guideline changes – as of November 28, 2025 – ensures compliance and maximizes recycling effectiveness.
Washington County Recycling Ordinances
Washington County’s recycling ordinances are designed to promote responsible waste management and environmental stewardship throughout the community. These regulations outline the requirements for residents and businesses regarding the separation, collection, and proper disposal of recyclable materials. Adherence to these ordinances is crucial for achieving the county’s sustainability goals and minimizing landfill waste.
Currently, all single-family residences are required to participate in the county’s curbside recycling program, utilizing the provided bins for accepted materials. Multi-family dwellings and commercial entities are also subject to recycling requirements, often with tailored programs based on their specific needs and waste generation levels. The ordinances detail specific guidelines regarding contamination – materials that are not accepted in the recycling stream – and the penalties for non-compliance, which may include warnings or fines.
Furthermore, the county ordinances address extended producer responsibility programs, encouraging manufacturers to take greater responsibility for the end-of-life management of their products. These programs aim to reduce waste and promote the use of recycled content in new products, fostering a circular economy within Washington County.
Recent Changes to Recycling Guidelines (as of 11/28/2025)
Effective November 28, 2025, Washington County has implemented several key updates to its recycling guidelines to enhance program efficiency and address evolving market conditions. A significant change involves the acceptance criteria for plastics; while #1 and #2 plastics remain accepted, stricter enforcement regarding cleanliness is now in effect. All plastic containers must be thoroughly rinsed and free of food residue to avoid contamination.
Additionally, the county has expanded its focus on extended producer responsibility, aligning with initiatives from organizations like the American Chemistry Council. This includes increased support for chemical recycling technologies and programs designed to hold manufacturers accountable for the lifecycle of their products. Residents are encouraged to check for specific take-back programs offered by producers.
Finally, the Board of Commissioners recently recognized the first 50 organizations participating in the “Recycle at Work” program, highlighting a growing commitment to commercial recycling efforts. Updated informational materials reflecting these changes are available on the county website and at all drop-off locations.
Extended Producer Responsibility Programs in Washington County
Washington County is actively fostering Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) programs, shifting the burden of recycling and disposal from taxpayers to the manufacturers themselves. This approach, gaining momentum nationally – as highlighted by the American Chemistry Council – aims to incentivize producers to design products with recyclability in mind and to finance the end-of-life management of those products.
Currently, EPR initiatives in the county focus on several key areas, including electronics (e-waste) and certain packaging materials. Manufacturers are increasingly required to establish take-back programs, providing convenient options for consumers to responsibly dispose of their products. These programs often involve collection events, designated drop-off locations, and mail-back options.
The county is also exploring expanding EPR to other product categories, such as paint and mattresses. Residents are encouraged to check with retailers and manufacturers for specific EPR programs available for their purchases, contributing to a more sustainable and circular economy within Washington County.