Top Questions About Colorado’s New Recycling System

You’ve probably heard the news: Colorado is rolling out free recycling thanks to a new program called Extended Producer Responsibility, or EPR. Wondering what that means for you and your bills? Here are some of the most common questions Coloradans are asking.  

When will free recycling be available where I live? How do I find out? 

Local governments and waste collectors across the state set the pace for rolling out free recycling. That means some communities could see free recycling this year, and others will take more time. To find out: 

1. Contact your local government or waste collector to see if they are participating or plan to participate. They are in the best position to tell you whether and when they will provide free recycling under the EPR program.  

2. Sign up for the quarterly newsletter. We will share information about participating communities. 

3. Bookmark and visit RecycleOn/Colorado. Over the coming months, as more communities receive services, we will be working toward a community directory so you know who is providing producer-funded recycling services in your area. 

4. Email us your questions. 

Why do I keep seeing ads if nothing has changed yet? 

Colorado is investing in a stronger recycling system, and we want to help you understand that system before it rolls out in more communities. We know services are not available everywhere yet, but we want residents to know what’s coming and where to find reliable information as updates become available. 

Nothing is free. Who’s really paying? 

The companies and brands that make packaging and paper products fund these recycling services. It’s called Extended Producer Responsibility, or EPR. Learn more about how recycling is paid for under Colorado’s EPR program. 

Why hasn’t my bill changed?  

Your bill will show a $0 recycling charge once the community or recycling collector is participating in the program. Their contract for reimbursement requires that residents are no longer charged for producer-funded recycling services. Remember that your community or recycling collection may choose to not participate in EPR and they may continue to charge for other services. The best thing to do right now is ask your recycling service provider if they are pursuing reimbursement and, if yes, when they anticipate free recycling will be available.