Oregon opens first RecycleOn centers in support of EPR program

Circular Action Alliance, the producer responsibility organization (PRO) overseeing Oregon’s extended producer responsibility (EPR) program, recently launched the state’s first RecycleOn Centers. The organization says the new drop-off locations “mark a major milestone” in the rollout of the state’s Recycling Modernization Act, designed to expand recycling access, reduce waste and build a stronger and more convenient recycling system.

RecycleOn Centes launched Oct. 15 with an event at waste management company Recology’s Ashland Recycling Center that was attended by service providers, local governments, elected officials and community members. CAA says the launch highlighted the collaborative effort driving the state’s new recycling system, including participation from local governments and service providers.

By the end of 2027, more than 140 RecycleOn centers will open across Oregon, ensuring every county has at least one location. CAA says this expansion will bring recycling closer to home for most residents, with more than 90 percent of Oregonians living within 15 miles of a drop-off location.

RecycleOn Centers are free to use and designed to fill the gaps for items that are typically not collected in curbside recycling bins. According to CAA, residents now will be able to drop off the following empty and dry items:

• plastic bags and stretch plastics;
• plastic lids from items such as yogurt and sour cream cups;
• ridged plastic package handles such as six-pack carriers;
• plastic buckets and pails;
• aluminum foil and trays; and
• shredded paper in paper bags, rolled and stapled shut.

“With more locations, better support and consistent statewide service, these centers will help more Oregonians participate in recycling and give these materials another life,” CAA says.

Along with the new centers, Oregonians have access to a look-up tool. By entering an address, residents can find the closest RecycleOn Center or recycling program; see which materials are accepted locally; and get clear guidance on what goes where.

In addition to Recology’s Ashland Recycling Center, RecycleOn can be found at 16 locations across the southern portion of the state, co-located at Goodwill Industries, credit unions, grocery stores and facilities operated by waste and recycling company Republic Services Inc.