One Year In, Oregon's Recycling Modernization Act Is Delivering Results
This blog post was written by Kim Holmes, Executive Director, Oregon, at Circular Action Alliance (CAA).
Last July, Oregon took a big step toward a stronger recycling system by launching the nation's first producer-funded recycling program for paper and packaging.
The Recycling Modernization Act (RMA) changes who helps pay for Oregon's recycling system. Instead of relying only on local governments and ratepayers, companies that sell paper and packaging products in the state now help fund improvements like new recycling carts, upgraded recycling facilities, collection equipment and public education.
Over the past year, we've been working with local governments, recycling service providers and producers to put those investments into action. Some changes – like expanded curbside recycling service and new RecycleOn Centers – are already making recycling more accessible for Oregonians. Others, including upgrades to recycling facilities and statewide recycling education, are laying the groundwork for an improved, more consistent recycling system that will continue to take shape through 2027.
One Year In: By the Numbers
A lot has happened in the first year. Here are a few of the milestones that show how producer funding is making a difference across Oregon. As of June 2026:
Approximately 265,000 tons (530 million pounds) of recyclable materials have been delivered from Oregon communities to recycling sorting facilities.
34 RecycleOn Centers have opened, with more than 50 additional sites planned to open this year.
Producer funding has supported more than 36,000 new recycling carts and 11 recycling collection trucks serving communities across the state.
$30 million has been distributed to recycling sorting facilities to modernize equipment and help more recyclable materials stay out of the landfill.
3,272 brands that sell packaging and paper products are registered in Oregon's producer responsibility program.
91 end markets have self-attested to meeting Oregon's Responsible End Market standards, with independent third-party verification beginning this year.
What’s Next
The first year of the RMA built the foundation for real-world results. Now, we're starting to see those investments reach Oregon communities.
In Pendleton, residents recently gained access to curbside recycling for the first time with approximately 6,300 new recycling carts and two new collection trucks. Other communities, including The Dalles and Baker City, have also seen new curbside recycling service roll out. Later this year, communities including Cottage Grove, Winston, Coos Bay, and Umatilla and Morrow counties are expected to launch or expand recycling service, and additional RecycleOn Centers will continue opening across the state.
Behind the scenes, we're continuing to improve recycling facilities and strengthen Responsible End Market standards so there's more transparency about where recyclables go. We’re also expanding statewide education to help Oregonians recycle with confidence.
By the end of 2027, our goal is for 95% of Oregonians to live within 15 miles of a RecycleOn Center. We're also working toward a statewide recycling acceptance list, so whether you live in a rural community or a larger city, you'll have more consistent recycling options and clearer guidance about what can be recycled.
Building a stronger recycling system is a long-term effort, and it only happens through collaboration. We're grateful to the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality, local governments, recycling service providers, producers, advisory councils and community partners who have helped bring the RMA to life during its first year, and will continue to collaborate with these groups to make the RMA a success for Oregon
If you'd like to learn more about the program's progress, you can explore the 2025 Oregon Annual Report or visit RecycleOn.org/Oregon for the latest information about recycling in your community.