Shoreline officials seek to improve composting education and recycling practices

The Shoreline City Council held a regular meeting on May 5, 2025, focusing on solid waste management, particularly recycling and composting efforts within the community. The discussion began with inquiries about the current rates of waste diversion, specifically how much of the waste generated by single-family households is recyclable or compostable.

A representative noted that studies from the King County Landfill indicate that approximately 70% of the waste sent to the landfill could have been recycled or composted. Despite this potential, there are significant barriers to achieving higher composting rates, even in single-family homes where composting services are available. The council members expressed concern over the low visibility of green compost bins on collection days, suggesting that many residents may not be utilizing the service effectively.

The conversation shifted to the challenges of educating residents about proper waste sorting. It was highlighted that many newcomers to the region find the three-bin system confusing, which contributes to contamination in recycling and composting efforts. The council discussed the need for targeted educational initiatives to inform residents about the benefits of composting and the specific rules governing waste disposal in Shoreline.

Additionally, the council addressed the recent state law mandating increased composting efforts among larger businesses and multifamily residences. The representatives acknowledged that while single-family households have a high subscription rate for composting services, actual usage remains low, indicating a need for further research into the reasons behind this trend.

The meeting also touched on special item recycling, such as textiles and Styrofoam, which are not typically included in standard recycling programs. The council discussed the importance of promoting special recycling events and ensuring that residents are aware of how to properly dispose of these items.

In conclusion, the Shoreline City Council emphasized the importance of education and community engagement in improving recycling and composting rates. They plan to continue working with waste management providers to enhance services and reduce contamination, aiming for a more sustainable waste management system in the city.