Recycle & Compost

Recycling and composting are important to sustainable living in the Islands. Each Island has slightly different systems, but all require that you know which clean materials are recycled at the facilities. Recycling can be taken to the solid waste facilities on San Juan, Orcas, and Lopez or placed in marked recycling collection bins.

recyclable cans

Recycling

It is our responsibility to recycle right, by placing only clean and accepted recycling in the recycle bins. Wishful or incorrect recycling can result in a whole trailer full of recycling being disposed of as garbage. Recycling varies from place to place, and Island to Island, so please review the acceptable recyclables poster and added Island specific information below. Thank you for taking the time to recycle right.  

San Juan County Recycle Right Flier
SJS_mailer insert flier - recycle right_FINAL_Page_2

Composting

Composting of yard debris is available as part of the Town of Friday Harbor waste collection services. Food waste is a developing area of waste management on the Islands. In most cases yard debris can be left on site, mulched, and reused using a compost bin or just pile and cover method. Food waste composting requires an added level of care to avoid attracting rodents or other animals. Composting food waste within an animal proof compost bin is best. Some Islands have businesses that will take your compost. The County is exploring options for San Juan and Orcas Island to offer commercial level composting of food waste. Currently, the following entities may take certain compostable materials. Please contact them directly for up to date information on what they will accept. 

Lopez

Orcas


Additional Composting Resources

WSU SJC extension