County residents now able to recycle new items

Oregon’s Plastic Pollution and Recycling Modernization Act (RMA), passed by the Legislature in 2021, officially took effect on July 1, 2025.

With this new change, residents can now recycle food and beverage cartons, pizza boxes and small scrap metal (less than 10 pounds) in their curbside carts.

The RMA makes recycling simpler by creating one easy-to-follow statewide recycling list. It also brings significant changes to how packaging, paper, and food service ware are funded, collected, and recycled.

“I’m excited for what the RMA means for Deschutes County residents,” said Tim Brownell, Director of Solid Waste. “In the coming months and years, we will be expanding recycling opportunities throughout the County and ensuring that materials are responsibly recycled. Residents with curbside service should watch for updated recycling guides from their providers. Recycling saves resources, reduces climate impacts, and creates local jobs.”

What’s Changing in Deschutes County?

Deschutes County has updated the list of items that will be accepted in curbside recycling carts and drop-off centers to align with the new Uniform Statewide Collection List.

Newly accepted in curbside carts:

• Food & Beverage cartons (milk, broth, juice)
• Pizza Boxes (no food residue)
• Small scrap metal (under 10 pounds or 18 inches)

No longer accepted in curbside carts:

• Shredded paper (can be recycled at Deschutes Recycling, located at Knott Landfill, or any Deschutes County Transfer Station and placed in a shredded paper bin).

Before the RMA, recycling programs varied widely across Oregon. The new law requires that producers of packaging, printing, paper, and food service ware help fund consistent recycling services statewide.

Learn More

• Deschutes County Recycling Information: https://www.deschutes.org/solidwaste/page/recycling-what-can-i-recycle
• About the Recycling Modernization Act.

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Media Contact:

Jackie Wilson, Solid Waste Community Engagement Coordinator

(541) 350-4765

About Deschutes County Department of Solid Waste

The Deschutes County Department of Solid Waste oversees safe and sustainable management of solid waste in the county. We provide responsible disposal and recycling options to protect our environment and serve our growing community.

About RecycleOn Oregon

RecycleOn Oregon is a statewide campaign created by Circular Action Alliance (CAA) to help Oregonians understand and adapt to the changes brought by the Plastic Pollution and Recycling Modernization Act.