Expanded Recycling Access in Colorado
Stay informed on Colorado's EPR recycling initiative designed to reduce waste, expand recycling access and support communities statewide.
More Recycling, Less Waste
Through its new EPR program, Colorado is making recycling more accessible to households across the state at no additional cost to residents.
What Is Extended Producer Responsibility?
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is a policy approach that makes producers of packaging materials and paper products financially responsible for recycling such products. Instead of residents and municipalities bearing the full cost of recycling programs, the companies producing packaging materials and paper products now contribute to the infrastructure needed to recycle them. The goal is to improve recycling systems, increase recycling rates and reduce waste.
Why Did Colorado Make This Change?
For years, recycling access across Colorado has been uneven. Urban areas often had robust programs, while rural and suburban communities struggled with limited options and high costs. HB 22-1355 addresses this gap by creating sustainable funding for statewide recycling infrastructure.
How the Program Works
Producer Contributions
Producers of packaging materials or paper products sold in Colorado register with a Producer Responsibility Organization (PRO) and contribute funds based on the amount and type of packaging they distribute.
Program Administration
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) oversees the program, while the PRO (Circular Action Alliance) manages fund collection and distribution.
Service Provider Support
Republic Services is anticipated to receive reimbursement for eligible net recycling costs under the program, enabling us to provide service to our existing customers, and work toward expanding service to additional households at no separate charge to residents.
What EPR Means for Republic Services Customers
EPR is projected to bring recycling to an estimated 700,000 more households throughout the state of Colorado.
Add Recycling Service
If you're a current residential waste customer, but don't subscribe to curbside recycling with us, EPR funding is expected to enable Republic Services to provide:
- A standard recycling cart provided through the EPR program at no separate recycling service charge
- Convenient curbside collection on your regular service day
- Simple, single-stream recycling for common household materials
If you'd like to sign up for recycling service now, please fill out the sign-up form below. Until EPR reimbursements take effect, recycling service charges will apply.* Once reimbursement begins, base recycling service will be available at no additional cost to Colorado residents.
Existing Residential Recycling Customers
If you already receive residential recycling service from Republic Services:
- Your service is expected to continue without interruption.
- You'll be enrolled in the EPR program automatically.
- You may see service enhancements as the program matures.
Thank you for recycling with us! When EPR reimbursements take effect, you will hear from us with more details.
*Residents may still be charged for contamination fees, overage fees, services outside the program, additional carts, lost or damaged carts. Eligibility requires active trash service, meaning you cannot cancel your trash service and receive recycling service at no cost.
New customer? Start here.
Enter your address below to check which services are available to you. Once you’re set up, you can access your Online Account and get around-the-clock support.
EPR Timeline
Colorado's EPR program is rolling out in phases. We will communicate specific timing for service changes in your area as details are confirmed.
Registration & Reporting
Producers register and report packaging volumes to establish funding requirements.
PRO Operations Launch
The Producer Responsibility Organization begins collecting and distributing funds.
Service Expansion
Haulers expand recycling services to underserved areas with PRO support
Universal Access
Long-term goal of convenient recycling service for all Colorado residents.
Simple Steps for Smarter Recycling
Know what to throw
Only put recyclable materials — paper, cardboard, metal cans, plastic bottles and jugs — in your recycling cart.
Make sure recyclables are empty, clean and dry
Empty, clean and dry materials recycle best. Dirty items will interfere with the recycling process.
Keep unacceptable items out
Don't put plastic bags and film, food-contaminated items, hazardous materials, electronics or foam packaging in your recycling bin.
When in doubt, throw it out
If you're not sure whether an item is recyclable, check your local guidelines first. If you're still unsure, throw it in the trash to prevent contamination.
Questions About EPR?
Republic Services is proud to support Colorado's commitment to environmental sustainability and expanded recycling access for all residents.
As Colorado's EPR program develops, we're here to help you navigate these changes and will keep you informed about service updates in your community.
