Recycling Modernization Act

A modern makeover for Oregon’s recycling system

The Plastic Pollution and Recycling Modernization Act (RMA) will update Oregon’s outdated recycling system by building on local community programs and leveraging the resources of producers to create an innovative system that works for everyone. The Oregon legislature passed the Recycling Modernization Act (Senate Bill 582) during the 2021 legislative session. The new law became effective Jan. 1, 2022 and recycling program changes will start in July 2025.

What is RMA?

Oregon’s Plastic Pollution and Recycling Modernization Act (RMA) is a statewide law created to make recycling more efficient, environmentally responsible, and consistent across all Oregon communities. It also encourages smarter packaging design to reduce waste. Many initial improvements will take place behind the scenes, like upgrading recycling facilities, creating better tracking systems to renew public confidence in the system, and eventually leading to all communities in Oregon having the opportunity to recycle the same items from the convenience of their home and work. 

Starting July 1, 2025, Oregon’s recycling system began its largest upgrade in decades. Consumers will no longer bear the full burden of recycling; brands, like Amazon and Proctor & Gamble, will be held financially accountable for the environmental impacts of their packaging, paper, and food serviceware products sold in the state which will allow for investments in our recycling infrastructure. While some changes will start right away, others may not take effect until 2027 or later. 

Oregon’s Recycling Modernization Act

• Expands recycling access: All Oregonians will be able to recycle at home and work. 
• Creates a statewide collection list: The same items can be recycled across the state. 
• Invests in recycling facilities: Modernizes sorting facilities for efficiency and reliability. 
• Supports responsible end markets: Ensures recycled items are reused locally, domestically, or abroad. 
• Reduces contamination: Educates the public to keep trash out of recycling bins. 
• Adds RecycleOn Centers: 30+ new centers are expected to open across the Portland metropolitan area by the end of 2027 which will provide free, convenient drop-off recycling for items not accepted curbside (e.g. plastic bags and stretchy plastic, loose plastic lids and caps, shredded paper and more).

Brands and producers will share the responsibility for recycling costs through the Circular Action Alliance (CAA), the state-approved producer responsibility organization. They will manage statewide program implementation and provide information on the statewide webpage. For those areas of the state with robust recycling (like Clackamas, Multnomah, and Washington Counties), much will remain the same, including our local recycling, glass, yard debris, and garbage webpages, guides, and information.

What Clackamas County Residents Need to Know 

Clackamas County already has curbside recycling at home and work, so many current practices will remain the same. However, beginning July 1, 2025, expect these minor changes: 

Changes to the Recycling List 

• Plastic caps screwed onto plastic bottles, jars, and jugs are now accepted (loose caps and lids should go in the garbage, unless dropped off at a RecycleOn Center)
• Pizza boxes with grease (but no leftover food) are now accepted 
• Shredded paper will no longer go in curbside bins (shredded paper in paper bags can be taken to a RecycleOn Center for recycling)
• Plastic bottles, jugs, and tubs must be 2 inches by 2 inches or larger (previous minimum was 6 oz.); clamshells (tubs with hinged lids) are still not allowed 
• Scrap metal cannot be more than 10 lbs. nor 10 inches (previously 30 lbs./30 in.) 

Future Changes 

• Expanded recycling options on Mt. Hood (timing TBD) 
• Additional RecycleOn Centers or events for items not accepted in recycle bins at home and work. (Stay in the loop with the latest Oregon RecycleOn News)
• Expanded efforts to reduce contamination in recycling bins 
• More items added to the recycling list over time 

Other Oregon Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Programs 

Oregon’s Recycling Modernization Act is part of a larger statewide trend holding producers responsible for their products’ end-of-life impacts. Other programs include: 

• BottleDrop: Oregon beverage container recycling 
• PaintCare: Paints and stains 
• Oregon E-Cycles: TVs, computers, laptops, printers, and electronics 
• Bye Bye Mattress: Mattresses and box springs 
• Med Take-Back Oregon: unused prescription medications 

Tips for Clackamas County Residents

Check out the links below for more information about recycling right and Oregon’s Recycling Modernization Act.

• Follow the current Clackamas County Recycle Guide (available in seven languages) to avoid putting items in your recycling bin that can jam equipment, harm workers, and make it harder to recycle the good stuff.
• DEQ’s Plastic Pollution & Recycling Modernization Act
• Visit the RecycleOn Center website to explore what’s accepted (in multiple languages) and find nearby recycling centers using the interactive map.