Focus of America Recycles Day community event and panel discussion: What is Recyclable, Anyway?

KTVZ

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Did you know our consumption accounts for half of our greenhouse gas emissions? Did you hear that Knott Landfill is close to full? Have you heard contradictory things about recycling and whether it matters? 

This July, Oregon became the first state in the nation to pass a sweeping bill, the Recycling Modernization Act, that modernizes Oregon’s recycling infrastructure, and makes producers responsible for their packaging (The Environmental Center asks that you see their Oregon’s Recycling Modernization Act post for more info). 

Do you have questions about what has changed or what is about to change? Or maybe, are you skeptical that these changes will have any meaningful impact? 

At Rethink Waste Project’s 4th annual America Recycles Day free virtual event on Tuesday, November 18th (6-7:30pm), everyone is invited to come learn from a panel of experts about recycling and the Recycling Modernization Act. This is an opportunity for all residents to get clarity on our recycling system and what’s recyclable and not here, while also learning why recycling by itself won’t save us from our climate and waste crises. 

All who are interested can learn more and register for this free event at https://envirocenter.org/event/rma/ or by clicking the link from www.RethinkWasteProject.org 

Panel: 

Colin Teem, Materials Management – Eastern Region Specialist, Oregon Department of Environmental Quality 

Rachel VanWoert, RMA Technical Assistant, Oregon Department of Environmental Quality 

Susan Baker, Diversion and Franchise Services Manager, Deschutes County Solid Waste 

Moderator: Kavi Chokshi, Rethink Waste Program Manager, The Environmental Center 

A big thanks to our panelists! 

Questions? Contact kavi@envirocenter.org  

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About the Rethink Waste Project 

The Rethink Waste Project (RWP), a program of The Environmental Center, envisions a community that understands the upstream and downstream impacts of using Earth’s resources and makes responsible decisions about the consumption, use, and disposal of materials. RWP provides waste prevention and reduction education for Deschutes County residents, businesses, and organizations through a partnership with Deschutes County Department of Solid Waste and local garbage and recycling service providers. RWP offers free presentations around waste reduction, recycling, food waste prevention, and more. Learn more at: www.RethinkWasteProject.org

About The Environmental Center 

The Environmental Center’s mission is to embed sustainability into daily life in Central Oregon. We translate sustainability into practical, local action in order to create a healthy future for people and the planet. We are focused on building community, educating kids, revolutionizing energy, rethinking waste, and advocating for change. Learn more at www.envirocenter.org or by visiting our facility at 16 NW Kansas Ave. in downtown Bend, Oregon. 

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