Description: The Recycling Reform Act (RRA) establishes an extended producer responsibility (EPR) program for packaging and paper products sold in Washington State. Under the program, producers of covered materials—including packaging such as boxes, bottles, and cans made from paper, plastic, metal, and glass, as well as printed paper products—must join and finance a nonprofit Producer Responsibility Organization (PRO) to manage the end-of-life collection and recycling of these materials.
By shifting financial and operational responsibility from residents and local governments to producers, the RRA is intended to create a more transparent, accountable, and cost-effective recycling system statewide. The law applies across Washington, including urban, rural, island, and geographically isolated communities, and is expected to improve recycling infrastructure, reduce service disparities, and increase recycling rates. Intended environmental benefits include reduced landfill disposal, lower greenhouse gas emissions, decreased litter and marine debris, and improved material recovery. Intended health benefits include reduced exposure to pollution associated with waste disposal and incineration.
The RRA also establishes statewide convenience standards to ensure equitable and accessible recycling collection for single-family and multifamily households, expanding services in areas that have historically lacked reliable recycling options. Collection events and expanded drop-off infrastructure will help serve rural and underserved communities.
Additionally, the law creates an Equity Subcommittee to advise on environmental justice, accessibility, and community engagement throughout implementation. Populations expected to benefit include residents of overburdened communities, low-income households, rural residents, multifamily housing tenants, and communities with limited access to recycling services, as the program aims to reduce disparities and promote equitable access to waste management services across the state.
Methods for providing public comment: Ecology will provide multiple opportunities for public comment throughout this assessment and the associated rulemaking process.
Public engagement methods will include listening sessions specifically intended for residents of overburdened communities and vulnerable populations. These sessions will provide opportunities for community members to share input, ask questions, or raise concerns about the proposed action. Ecology will also accept public comments during rulemaking comment periods submitted through the comment portal, by email, and during public hearings.
In addition, the Equity Subcommittee will regularly engage with community members to gather feedback on Advisory Council updates, outreach materials, and program implementation considerations. The Subcommittee will relay community questions, comments, and concerns directly to the Advisory Council to help ensure meaningful consideration of public input.
