RecycleU: Free recycling education for all!

The amount of waste we create is increasing all of the time, while simultaneously space for waste is inevitably decreasing, as landfills are reaching capacity and quickly becoming obsolete. In an effort to mitigate this problem, recycling systems have been erected around the world, creating global markets and diverging specific materials from inundated landfills. Note the word: specific. Not everything is recyclable, and now (probably more than ever) it is important to know what is recyclable and what is trash. 

The United States ships most of our recyclable products overseas to be manufactured, but when non-recyclable items are thrown into the mix, unwanted products become more difficult to sort out and generate contamination. Contamination decreases the value of our products and has the potential to take recyclables off the market altogether. Unfortunately, knowing what to recycle and what to throw away is simply not intuitive. Products and markets are ever-evolving, with new packaging hitting shelves on a regular basis. It is important to stay educated on proper recycling practices, and just as important to understand the process in its entirety.

Luckily, opportunities to learn how and what to recycle exist right here in Clark County. Thanks to the City of Vancouver and Waste Connections, residents like you have access to free recycling education through their program, RecycleU . RecycleU has something for everyone, from recycling basics to beyond the cart (Recycling 101 & 201), classes for kids, and walking tours of your local recycling facilities in Clark County. The objective of RecycleU is to teach participants to RecycleRight so they can make confident and informed decisions about waste disposal and reduction. 

Every class is an opportunity to expand your knowledge and ask questions about your regional solid waste system. These 90 minute classes are designed to be interesting and easy to comprehend. Friendly staff will happily answer any questions you might have along the way. Check out this detailed list of classes currently being offered.The program's success has gained recent media attention on CTV News (video) and has previously been mentioned in the Columbian. Classes are easy to register for online, so take a look at the schedule and sign up today. 

Recycling 101 & 201 Class Descriptions

•  Recycling 101 Class – Learn the Basics
• Approximately 90 minutes, classroom setting
• ~ Recycling 101 is a fun, tip-sharing, recycling-friendly class. You'll learn all about what goes into your curbside cart and what does not.
• ~ Learn the basics about what to recycle curbside and where items go after being picked up.

~ Get the latest tips about our regional garbage and recycling system.

Recycling 201 Class – Beyond the Cart

Approximately 90 minutes, classroom setting

~ Take the next step! Go beyond the basics of curbside recycling.

~ Learn about the wide variety of recycling and reuse options available locally.

~ Discover how recycling, reuse, and waste reduction are making positive impacts in our community and how you can join this effort.

Please note: Prior attendance in Recycling 101 is required for this class. For more information about RecyleU, check out the City of Vancouver, Washington's website.

RecycleU can answer any of your recycling questions, but you can also receive real-time answers at your fingertips by using the RecycleRight App or the Recycling A-Z Directory, which makes searching for local reuse, recycling, and safe disposal options for hundreds of products and household items even easier. Just enter the name of the item you no longer need and hit 'Search' to get answers to a variety of options for reusing and recycling, including locations and contact information.