Restrictions by the Chinese government on what recyclables may be imported into their country are having a significant impact on Washington’s recycling programs and industry. A number of bills introduced this session propose solutions – and they all impact cities.
Bills that would bring our recycling programs to the next level
Let’s start with the solutions that would have a positive impact. We covered the plastic stewardship companion bills in a previous article, but we think this is the most promising proposal to effectuate a long-term change for a sustainable recycling system for every city in this state. The bills, SB 5397 and HB 1204, aim to make those who produce and distribute plastic packaging in Washington responsible for financing the management of the packaging when it is recycled or disposed. This proposal turns the Chinese market crisis into an opportunity to change our recycling system for the better. The market for plastics has been one of the hardest hit by the withdrawal of Chinese buyers.
We appreciate the forward-thinking approach and will be testifying in support, along with individual cities.
Another set of bills, also covered in the previous article are the plastic bag ban proposals – SB 5323 and HB 1205. Plastic bags are a significant contaminant in our commingled recycling system. This proposal would have a positive impact for those systems and a long-term market benefit. SB 5323 passed out of its policy committee and is in Ways & Means Committee. HB 1205 is scheduled for a committee vote on Thursday, February 7.
A bill that would drag us into the past
There is also a proposed solution that we think is the wrong approach. Instead of looking to the future, HB 1795 takes us back 20 years. The bill would significantly limit the type of recyclables allowed to be collected in commingled recycling programs. Under the guise of economic efficiency and environmental effectiveness, this bill would:
- Increase disposal costs for cities;
- Confuse the public by withdrawing and adding materials back four years later, which would only compound contamination problems;
- Restrict our freedom to contract;
- Reduce the materials that ultimately get recycled; and
- Constrain market innovation and advancement.
We are very concerned with this proposal as it would set cities back financially and lose ground on our state’s materials management goals – at a time when we should be taking bigger strides. AWC and individual cities will be testifying in opposition to HB 1795.
Bills that want to study the problem
Two other bills take a study approach. SB 5545, a Department of Ecology request bill sponsored by Sen. Mona Das (D–Auburn), would create a research center within Ecology to develop markets for recycling. For those of you who were around during the Clean Washington Center days (the 1990s), this will look familiar. SB 5545 also requires local governments to develop recycling contamination reduction and outreach plans or adopt one that Ecology creates. HB 1543, sponsored by Rep. Jared Mead (D–Mill Creek) is its companion.
We agree with the proposal that the private sector has the greatest capacity for creating and expanding markets for recycled commodities. We are encouraged that Ecology is taking leadership on this issue, and support efforts under their existing funding to do market research to create a more sustainable recycling system for all the communities in our state.
Finally, HB 1665 directs the Department of Commerce (Commerce) to complete an economic analysis of recyclable material and solid waste processing, export, and disposal activities in Washington. Commerce must submit a report on its findings by September 1, 2020. This bill is sponsored by Rep. Norma Smith (R–Clinton). Unlike the other House recycling-related bills, HB 1665 will be heard in the House Innovation, Technology & Economic Development Committee at 8 am on Wednesday, February 6.
Dates to remember
SB 5545 will be heard on Wednesday, February 6 at 8 am in the Senate Environment, Energy & Technology Committee.
HB 1665 will be heard in the House Innovation, Technology & Economic Development Committee at 8 am on Wednesday, February 6.
All other House bills are scheduled for public hearing in the House Environment & Energy Committee at 8 am on Thursday, February 7.