Master Recyclers Stay Current in a Rapidly Evolving Waste Prevention Environment

The previous year was a productive one for waste prevention and sustainability efforts in Oregon and Lane County.

Consider some transformative movements that have occurred:

• The Recycling Modernization Act (RMA) is a new law that created a statewide recycling system that shares the cost of recycling among local governments, recycling companies, and producers of packaging and paper products. The RMA is designed to be easier, more effective, and uniform, no matter where residents live in the state.

• House Bill 3365 became law. The bill requires that updates to Oregon’s academic standards in science, social studies, and health include learning about climate change causes and effects, and ways students can better prepare for the future.

• The state also implemented a mattress recycling law that makes mattress recycling free at select locations, including Glenwood Transfer Station and several St. Vincent de Paul locations in Lane County.

•  Oregon passed the Right to Repair law, which requires manufacturers of electronic devices and home appliances to provide consumers and independent repair shops with necessary parts, tools, and documentation to make repairs at a fair cost.

• Closer to home, the Lane County Waste Management Division launched a free community compost program, expanded its Sustainable Event Services program (which provides durable dishware at large-scale events), and introduced free household item repair services to residents in Cottage Grove, Florence, and Oakridge through “Fix-It-Booths.”

Suffice it to say, it was a lot.

How can you keep up to date on these types of new developments moving forward? Enter Lane County Waste Management’s Master Recycler Program.

If you want to make 2026 the year where you “up” your waste prevention game, becoming a Master Recycler may be just the ticket. Let’s hear from Program Coordinator Kelly Bell about the program.

Q: Kelly, what is a Master Recycler?

A: Master Recyclers are friends and neighbors who help bridge the gap between awareness and action by motivating people to reduce solid waste in homes and workplaces. Often, they are thrifty, handy, crafty, curious, love their communities, and appreciate lifelong learning opportunities.

Q: Why should folks consider becoming a Master Recycler?

A: For folks interested in sustainability and waste prevention, it doesn’t get much better than this! During the class, students hear from experts in recycling, waste management, and composting from government, business, and the nonprofit worlds. Courses include classroom instruction and real-world field trips.

Q: How long does it take to become a Master Recycler?

A: We offer in-person and online courses that range from nine to 11 weeks. Students must also acquire 30 volunteer hours, which typically takes one to two years.

Q: How much does it cost?

A: There is no fee for Master Recyclers who volunteer in their community, helping others to reduce waste, reuse, and recycle more.

The next course starts on March 31 in Florence. See a class schedule at lanecountyor.gov/wastewise-masterrecyclers.

By Daniel Hiestand