Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) is excited to share that glass placed in your residential blue bin is once again being recycled into new products, thanks to major improvements in regional infrastructure and new partnerships.
What Happened to Glass Recycling?
In 2024, Seattle had to pause regular glass recycling after the closure of Ardagh Glass Packaging, a major local bottle manufacturing plant. With nowhere nearby to send the recycled glass, the city and its recycling partners had to find a new solution.
What’s Changed?
Several key updates have made it possible for glass to flow again through the recycling system:
- Sibelco, a global glass recycler based in Seattle, upgraded its rail transportation system
- New commercial partners in the western U.S. are now buying recycled glass
- SPU worked closely with Republic Services, which operates the SODO recycling center, to ensure clean, sorted glass can be sent to the right places
Why This Matters
Glass is one of the most recyclable materials we use – and it’s infinitely recyclable. By restoring our local glass recycling loop, we’re:
- Keeping valuable materials out of the landfill
- Reducing emissions and energy use
- Supporting the circular economy right here in Seattle
What You Can Do
Keep it up, Seattle! You’ve already made a difference by staying committed to recycling glass. Now that the system is running again, here’s how you can help even more:
- Keep glass bottles and jars out of the trash
- Rinse them and place them clean, empty, and dry in your blue bin
- Avoid contaminating glass with food, caps, or other materials
Looking Ahead
The recently passed Washington state Recycling Reform Act is expected to boost demand for recycled glass across the state. Sibelco is already planning future upgrades and expansion at their SODO facility to meet this need.
With your help, Seattle is continuing to lead the way in sustainable waste practices.
Let’s keep glass in the loop – and out of the landfill.
Thank you, Seattle, for your ongoing commitment to a cleaner, more sustainable city.
Have questions about recycling? Visit SPU’s Recycling page for more information.