Seattle
Recycling and Waste Management
Information on Seattle's waste disposal, recycling programs, and composting initiatives.
Sections
1. Categories of Waste in Seattle
Seattle’s waste management system divides waste into three main categories:
a. Recycling (Blue Bin)
- Accepted Items:
- Paper: Newspapers, magazines, cardboard, office paper, and paperboard (e.g., cereal boxes).
- Plastics: Bottles, jugs, tubs, and containers labeled with recycling symbols #1, #2, and #5.
- Metals: Aluminum cans, tin cans, and clean foil.
- Glass: Bottles and jars (rinsed and without lids).
- Not Accepted:
- Plastic bags, Styrofoam, food-soiled paper, and non-recyclable plastics (e.g., straws, utensils).
b. Compost (Green Bin)
- Accepted Items:
- Food scraps: Fruits, vegetables, meat, bones, dairy, and eggshells.
- Yard waste: Grass clippings, leaves, branches, and plant trimmings.
- Food-soiled paper: Napkins, paper towels, and pizza boxes.
- Not Accepted:
- Plastic, glass, or metal items, even if labeled "compostable."
c. Garbage (Gray Bin)
- Accepted Items:
- Non-recyclable and non-compostable items, such as diapers, pet waste, and broken ceramics.
- Not Accepted:
- Hazardous waste, electronics, and large items (these require special disposal).
d. Special Waste
- Hazardous Waste: Paint, batteries, cleaning products, and pesticides must be taken to designated hazardous waste facilities.
- Electronics: TVs, computers, and other e-waste can be recycled through programs like E-Cycle Washington.
- Bulky Items: Furniture, mattresses, and appliances require special pickup or drop-off at transfer stations.
2. Costs Involved
Seattle residents pay for waste management services through their utility bills, which are managed by Seattle Public Utilities (SPU). The costs vary depending on the size of your garbage bin, as recycling and composting are included in the base rate.
Residential Rates (2023)
- Garbage Bin Sizes:
- 12-gallon: ~$23.85/month
- 20-gallon: ~$30.60/month
- 32-gallon: ~$40.95/month
- 64-gallon: ~$81.90/month
- 96-gallon: ~$122.85/month
- Recycling and Composting: Included in the garbage service fee.
- Extra Garbage Bags: $12.80 per bag (if you have overflow garbage).
Commercial Rates
Businesses are charged based on the volume and frequency of waste collection. Rates vary, so businesses should contact SPU for a customized quote.
Special Waste Costs
- Hazardous waste drop-off: Free for residents at designated facilities.
- Bulky item pickup: $30–$50 per item, depending on size.
3. Procedures for Recycling and Trash Disposal
Seattle has a well-organized system for waste collection. Here’s how to manage your waste effectively:
a. Setting Up Service
- Contact Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) to set up waste collection services. You can do this online or by calling their customer service line at (206) 684-3000.
- Choose the appropriate garbage bin size based on your household’s needs.
b. Collection Schedule
- Garbage, recycling, and compost bins are collected weekly or bi-weekly, depending on your location.
- Use SPU’s Collection Calendar Tool (available on their website) to find your pickup days.
- Place bins at the curb by 7:00 AM on collection day.
c. Sorting Waste
- Properly sort your waste into the correct bins (blue for recycling, green for compost, gray for garbage).
- Rinse recyclables to remove food residue.
- Do not bag recyclables or compost; place them loose in the bins.
d. Special Waste Disposal
- Hazardous Waste: Drop off at the North or South Household Hazardous Waste Facilities. Check their website for hours and accepted items.
- Electronics: Use E-Cycle Washington drop-off locations (e.g., Goodwill stores).
- Bulky Items: Schedule a pickup through SPU or take items to a transfer station.
4. Local Considerations and Restrictions
Seattle has specific rules and initiatives to encourage sustainable waste management:
a. Mandatory Composting and Recycling
- Since 2015, Seattle has required residents and businesses to compost food waste and recycle. Fines may be issued for non-compliance.
b. Plastic Bag Ban
- Single-use plastic bags are banned in Seattle. Use reusable bags or pay a small fee for paper or thicker plastic bags at stores.
c. Food Packaging Requirements
- Restaurants and food service businesses must use compostable or recyclable packaging.
d. Transfer Stations
- If you have excess waste or items that don’t fit in your bins, you can take them to one of Seattle’s two transfer stations:
- North Transfer Station: 1350 N 34th St, Seattle, WA 98103
- South Transfer Station: 130 S Kenyon St, Seattle, WA 98108
- Fees vary based on the weight of the waste.
e. Community Resources
- Seattle Public Utilities (SPU): Offers educational resources, guides, and tools for waste management.
- Recology CleanScapes: Provides additional recycling and composting services for businesses and multi-family properties.
5. Resources and Tools
- Seattle Public Utilities Website: www.seattle.gov/utilities
- Collection Calendar Tool: Use this to check your pickup schedule.
- Hazardous Waste Facilities: Haz Waste Help
- E-Cycle Washington: www.ecyclewashington.org
- SPU Customer Service: Call (206) 684-3000 for assistance.
6. Tips for Success
- Minimize Waste: Reduce your garbage bin size by maximizing recycling and composting.
- Stay Informed: Follow SPU’s updates on waste management policies and seasonal changes (e.g., holiday schedules).
- Engage in Community Programs: Participate in neighborhood cleanups or composting workshops to learn more about sustainable practices.
By following these guidelines, you’ll be able to navigate Seattle’s waste management system with ease while contributing to the city’s sustainability goals. Let me know if you need further assistance!