Recycling in Oregon
is Getting Better
Oregon’s recycling system is becoming more effective, simpler and accessible. We’re here to help you understand the changes—and recycle with confidence.
Check to see what you can recycle in your community:
Select Your CountyWhat Can I Recycle?
Help Oregon recycle better! Recycling only the items accepted by your community helps keep the system running smoothly, reduces the cost of recycling, and ensures that more materials are turned into new products.
Below is a base list that most Oregon communities recycle. Learn what items your community recycles using the Local Recycling Directory tool, and recycle with confidence:
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Plastic
plastic bottles, jugs, jars
must be 2 inches by 2 inches or larger -
Metal
aluminum and steel cans
empty and dry -
Cardboard & Cartons
flattened cardboard, packaging boxes
no food residue or frozen food boxes -
Paper
newspaper, magazines, mail, bags
no paper towels or napkins
Do Not Recycle
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No bagged recyclables
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No food or liquid
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No hoses, cords, wires
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No batteries
Rollout Timeline
Learn When Recycling is Changing in Your Community
Starting July 1, 2025, the Recycling Modernization Act begins upgrading Oregon’s recycling system. These improvements will roll out gradually.
Connect with RecycleOn Oregon
For the latest updates, check with your local government or recycling provider, and follow RecycleOn Oregon on social media.
July 2025
The Plastic Pollution and Recycling Modernization Act officially starts
- Communities around Oregon start updating recycling acceptance lists. Keep an eye out for updates in your community.
- Circular Action Alliance, the Producer Responsibility Organization (PRO) operating Oregon’s EPR program, began funding upgrades to recycling sorting facilities, new recycling trucks and other system improvements. These initial investments will continue until December 2027.
August 2025
RecycleOn Oregon ads launch
- The first statewide ad campaign from RecycleOn Oregon will launch to help Oregonians navigate the upcoming changes and recycle with confidence. Keep an eye outfor them.
Late Summer / Early Fall 2025
The first RecycleOn Oregon Recycling Centers open
- Recycling Centers will accept items not allowed in your home or business recycling bin, such as plastic bags and other stretchy plastic, plastic lids from round plastic containers like sour cream and yogurt, and other items. Browse the Local Recycling Directory to find what you can recycle in your community, and to check which items go in your recycling bin and which don’t.