Recycle printer cartridges

Does your work have empty printer cartridges that need proper disposal? Don’t put them in the recycling container! Find ways to recycle printer cartridges with the Garbage and Recycling Day search tool. Consider buying refillable cartridges to reduce waste.

Recycle right!

Businesses must recycle many types of items like plastic containers, paper, metal and cardboard. Cardboard boxes like fruit and vegetable boxes, office supply boxes and other cardboard need to be flattened before going into the recycling. Flattened cardboard takes up less space in recycling containers and is easier for the recycling depot workers to handle. Cardboard goes in your bin with all the other recyclable materials.

It’s company picnic time!

Start planning your company picnic, potluck or party with these ideas to minimize waste:

• Create an event kit with reusable dishware, silverware and napkins. Or have staff bring their own cups, utensils and plates.
• Have a potluck or cookout and bring your favorite foods in durable dishes.
• Hire a local food business to cater the event and request it be served in durable dishware.
•  Borrow our free recycling equipment to collect clean bottles, cans, paper and plastic containers at your event. We loan Clearstreams and bags for an easy set-up.

Special collection events

Use our Garbage and Recycling Day app to find special collection events in your area. Enter your address to find a location that will accept hazardous waste and other materials for free. 

Business benefits of food donation

Food businesses can help communities by donating food. It prevents wasting good, edible food and provides benefits to businesses. Under the Good Samaritan Act, your business is protected when donating food to nonprofit organizations. And there are donation tax incentives — a win-win for everyone. Setting up a food donation program is easy and can be done with help from local government programs, including Solid Waste & Recycling. To learn more and find support, visit FoodWasteStopsWithMe.org

Choose to reuse!

Restaurants that switch to reusable dishware from single-use for on-site dining can save money. Even after accounting for dishwashing costs and staff time, businesses can still see savings. That’s based on data from many businesses across the country. The Choose to Reuse program offers up to $500 to help your business switch to reusable serviceware. Learn more at Choose to Reuse and reach out to us today for assistance!

Free energy resources from Energy Trust of Oregon (ETO)

Green Business Advisor Odalis Aguilera and ETO’s Energy Advisor Edgar Mendoza are working together to help small businesses reduce energy use. Incentives include free SMART thermostats and new lighting with huge cost savings. Contact our program or visit the ETO website for more information. 

Free electric leaf blowers!

Pollution Prevention Resource Center (PPRC) and the City of Portland are offering free electric leaf blowers to landscaping businesses in Washington County. To qualify, a business must also work in Portland, have five or fewer employees, and recycle its old gas leaf blowers. Learn more about the program, receive training and sign up.