Recent changes to global recycling markets are affecting U.S. recycling programs, with significant impacts in Oregon. This disruption is due to an announcement from China that starting in 2018, they will no longer accept certain materials, such as plastic "clamshells" and plastic bags, shipped from the U.S. for recycling. Until recently, China has been the world's largest importer of recycled paper and plastics.

• Far West Recycling is no longer accepting plastics, except #1 and #2 bottles, at its public recycling depots (more info)
   
• Far West Recycling public recycling depots are now charging $5 per car to accept drop-off recycling
   
• Aloha Garbage Company will be closing its public recycling depot effective December 1, 2017
   
• New Seasons Market and Whole Foods are no longer accepting public recycling, including plastic bags and clamshells (more info)

• If you were collecting and dropping off plastic grocery bags and plastic film, use our What to Recycle and Where tool to find drop-off locations that are still accepting them
   
• If you were collecting and dropping off "non-curbside" plastics like clamshells and plastic lids, please place them in the garbage for now
   
• If you were collecting any other special materials for recycling that were picked up by a recycling company, get in touch with them if you have any questions
   
• Try reducing or avoiding waste as much as possible. Use durable items instead of disposable ones, such as grocery bags and dishware.
   
• Stay tuned to Oregon DEQ's website, which will provide updates about the situation and how it might affect your business
   
• Attend the Association of Oregon Recycler's Forum about recycling markets and the impacts of the "National Sword" on November 15
   
• Other questions? Get in touch with a Green Business Advisor to set up a site visit and see how we can help

Upgrade now and save even more! If you're thinking about upgrading your gas cooking equipment, you may be able to take advantage of bonus cash incentives from EnergyTrust of Oregon through the end of the year. Additional incentives of $250 to $900 are available through December 31. These incentives are in addition to standard incentives of $600 to $2,600 for upgrading gas convection ovens, gas combination ovens, gas fryers and gas steam cookers. (You must be an Oregon gas customer of Cascade Natural Gas, Northwest Natural or Avista to qualify.)

For more information and how to apply, contact Angel Swanson, Trade Ally Coordinator working with Energy Trust of Oregon.

Email:  Angel.Swanson@icf.com or phone:  503-278-9440