Recycling in the News, Near and Far
BIG Recyclers Diverts 1 Million Pounds of Glass from the Walla Walla Landfill
BIG Recyclers reached a major milestone on May 5, 2026, at the Walla Walla Airport Complex, surpassing 1 million pounds of glass diverted from the local landfill. The milestone was reached when member Mark Dahn handed over 37 pounds of glass for recycling, and an additional 672 pounds brought by The Walls Vineyards which pushed the nonprofit past the 1 million-pound mark.
The achievement came after 1,055 days, thousands of volunteer hours, support from dozens of local businesses, and participation from hundreds of households. Get all the details in the Walla Walla Union Bulletin article here.
“I didn’t anticipate reaching 1 million pounds until 2028,” said founder Chris Lueck. “We are so grateful to everyone who has contributed their time, donations, dues, and determination.”
Nearly a dozen BIG Recyclers volunteers in fluorescent safety vests staffed the weekly glass drop-off and marked the occasion with refreshments and group photos alongside founding members and longtime supporters.
WA State Passes the Recycling Reform Act
On April 23, Washington became the seventh state to enact an Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) bill, with the goal of improving recycling access, increasing recycling rates, and creating a more sustainable waste management system. This legislation, known as The Recycling Reform Act, is seen as a major step towards a more sustainable and circular economy for packaging materials. Govenor Bob Ferguson signed it into law on May 17, 2025. Next, it goes to the Department of Ecology for policy drafts which will take 18-24 months.
BIG Recyclers Named WRSA 2025 Recycler of the Year
We're proud to announce that the Washington State Recycling Association (WSRA) selected BIG Recyclers as their 2025 Recycler of the Year in the non-profit category. BIG Recyclers was highlighted and honored at the WSRA Annual Conference held in Airway Heights, WA, on May 19 - 21.
