Solid Waste Division
News & Topics Archive
The three most recent news items are always displayed on the Solid Waste Division (SWD) home page. Older items are archived here. Click on the links below to view SWD-related news and topics by year.
2009 News & Topics Archive
Sept. 23, 2009
King County brings down the roof … to the road
Innovative project recycles roofing shingles into new pavement for county road.
Sept. 3, 2009
King County wins four awards for excellence in information technology
The Solid Waste Division received a Digital Government Achievement Award (external) in the Government-to-Citizen category for the EcoCool Remodel Tool.
Aug. 28, 2009
Save the environment – recycle those fluorescent bulbs! (external)
If you believe the Internet rumors, fluorescent bulbs are sent to China to pollute the landscape there – not true! They go to the Total Reclaim processing facility in South Seattle—from KOMO News.
Aug. 17, 2009
King County's giant 'cube of food' on the road to Snoqualmie Railroad Days
477-pound cube of food equal to what an average family throws out each year.
Aug. 14, 2009
Let King County's free business recycling workshops help improve your bottom line
King CountyBusiness owners in King County can learn how to reduce waste, recycle more and cut their operating costs by participating in either of two workshops, scheduled for October.
Aug. 4, 2009
What can you do with those plastic nursery pots? (external)
Herb Weisbaum's "Consumer Minute" report includes comments from Tom Watson, King County EcoConsumer—audio file from KOMO radio.
Aug. 1, 2009
Sort for Sport – Garbage-sorting competition raises recycling awareness. (external)
"Three…two…one…SORT!" With that and a sharp blow of the whistle from referee Tom Watson, three three-person teams dove into 75-households-worth of garbage—from Waste Age.
July 27, 2009
King County's giant 'cube of food' takes center stage at KUBE's Summer Jam
The cube is part of King County's "Recycle Food. It's Easy to Do." education campaign to teach people about food scrap recycling at home.
July 17, 2009
Easy, convenient hazardous waste disposal comes to south King County
Local Hazardous Waste Management Program in King County has begun twice–a–month service of its popular Wastemobile hazardous waste program at the Auburn SuperMall.
July 15, 2009
Teams pull pounds of recyclables from garbage (external)
Nine Kent-area residents competed in sorting recyclables in a contest that promoted recycling and revealed common mistakes that consumers make—from The Seattle Times.
July 14, 2009
Trash talk: Garbage-sorting race spotlights recycling (external)
From The Seattle Post-Intelligencer.
July 7, 2009
The Painter's Dilemma: Is it worth it to wash out my paintbrushes? (external)
It's true that cleaning your painting tools can be a water-intensive process—from Slate Magazine.
July 1, 2009
Seattle sets new city record for recycling (external)
The city of Seattle hit a new record for recycling in 2008, with half of its residential and commercial waste being recycled or composted rather than going to a landfill—from KOMO News.
June 29, 2009
Regular King County Wastemobile service coming to the Auburn SuperMall
Beginning July 17, the Wastemobile will be stationed at the northwest corner of the Auburn SuperMall, 1101 SuperMall Way (external), from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday through Sunday.
June 17, 2009
King County Green Schools Program honors 42 schools for recycling, resource conservation
From a small private Montessori school to a large public high school, 42 King County schools have earned recognition for their recycling and resource conservation efforts from the county's Green Schools Program.
June 17, 2009
King County Solid Waste Division honored for innovative programs, outreach efforts
Building on its national reputation for innovative solutions that save resources while keeping costs low and protecting the environment, the King County Solid Waste Division (SWD) is receiving national recognition for its public education campaigns and materials.
June 5, 2009
Bellevue schools embrace recycling, earn King County Green Schools Program honors
It's no secret that recycling and energy conservation programs can save a school district thousands of dollars a year in reduced disposal costs and lower power bills.
May 13, 2009
King County Green School Program earns statewide ‘Recycler of the Year’ honors
An innovative King County program aimed at helping schools and school districts to save natural resources and money was recognized this month by the Washington State Recycling Association (WSRA) with a “Recycler of the Year” award.
May 4, 2009
Shoreline Transfer and Recycling Station named a 2009 Public Works Project of the Year
Add another high-profile honor to the Shoreline Transfer and Recycling Station's impressive list of accolades. The King County facility, which features numerous environmentally sustainable attributes, this month was selected as a Public Works Project of the Year for 2009 by the American Public Works Association.
April 22, 2009
King County honors local school Earth Heroes
This year, six teachers, two students, a librarian, a principal, a teacher-custodian team are being recognized, a former King County Council member, plus one parent, five school programs for projects that range from a student-run espresso stand founded on sustainable principles, to comprehensive recycling programs that reduce garbage costs.
April 14, 2009
King County accepting applications for third-annual ‘Best Workplaces for Recycling’ list
April 8, 2009
Local leaders in environmental stewardship honored with King County Green Globe awards
April 7, 2009
Garbage today, energy for your home tomorrow (external)
What begins as truck-loads of trash will soon provide electricity to more than 20,000 homes across King County—from KOMO News.
April 6, 2009
King County, PSE, and Bio Energy-Washington teaming up to generate green energy from landfill gas
Methane from Cedar Hills could generate enough power for 24,000 area homes.
April 3, 2009
King County's GreenTools Program named to top 50 ‘Innovations in American Government’ list
A program that has helped usher in a green-building revolution in western Washington was today named as a top 50 finalist for the 2009 Innovations in American Government award, sponsored by the Harvard Kennedy School's Ash Institute of Democratic Governance and Innovation.
March 27, 2009
Try King County's EcoCool Remodel Tool at Green Festival, Saturday and Sunday in Seattle
Stop by King County's booth at the second-annual Green Festival this Saturday and Sunday, March 28-29, and learn simple ways to green up your next home building project.
March 26, 2009
King County EcoConsumer expert featured at 2009 Green Festival, March 28-29
For those people who have questions about how to cut waste and conserve resources, King County's EcoConsumer has the answers.
March 23, 2009
KOMO4 TV and KOMO1000 Radio: Save money and go green with your home printing (external)
Herb Weisbaum's stories about reducing consumption of paper and ink feature info from King County EcoConsumer Tom Watson.
March 5, 2009
Become an expert in recycling, preventing waste
Register now for King County's ‘Master Recycler Composter’ Program
Feb. 26, 2009
Household hazardous waste collection season starts March 6 with Auburn visit of Wastemobile
King County residents can safely dispose of car batteries, oil and other household hazardous items when the King County Wastemobile kicks off its 20th year.
Feb. 23, 2009
Many plans to curtail use of plastic bags, but not much action (external)
Some officials fear a public backlash if they were to raise fees on plastic shopping bags in an economic downturn. Others say governments need the revenue more than ever—from The New York Times
Feb. 18, 2009
Video: Inside the Northwest Flower & Garden show (external)
King County EcoConsumer Tom Watson and Ladd Smith from In Harmony Sustainable Landscapes show some cool props to reporter Tim Robinson—from KING5.com
Feb. 14, 2009
Product stewardship leads companies to provide free e-waste recycling (PDF, 29 K)
Under Washington state's innovative new law regulating electronic waste, or "e-waste," manufacturers now pay for recycling of TVs and computers. Reprinted with permission from The Seattle Times.
Feb. 9, 2008
New Climate Report shows King County is reducing greenhouse gas
Goal is to better prepare for local impacts of climate change.
Feb. 3, 2009
King County Green Schools Program honors Auburn School District for conservation work
Jan. 31, 2009
Ready for clean break with single-use bags? (PDF, 32 K)
Let's get to the bottom of the plastic bag battle as we answer common consumer questions—reprinted with permission from The Seattle Times.
Jan. 29 2009
Collection program expanded, extended for businesses generating small quantities of hazardous waste
Jan. 14, 2009
Cool green winter gear (Windows Media)
King County's own EcoConsumer and anchor Mary Nam check out a green snowboard, eco-friendly snowshoes, a winter jacket made from recycled plastic bottles and more—video courtesy of KOMO4 News.
Spring 2009
Free electronics recycling (external)
Effective January 2009, electronics manufacturers began offering a new program called E-Cycle Washington that allows residents to recycle their computers, monitors, laptops and TVs for FREE.
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2008 News & Topics Archive
Jan. 13, 2008
King County looking for Earth Heroes nominations in local schools
This annual award honors teachers, students, staff, school volunteers, specific programs or entire schools that have contributed to both the protection of the local environment and the education of students on environmental issues.
Jan. 5, 2009
Many options available in King County for Christmas tree recycling
Dec. 26, 2008
Recycling the Holidays (Windows Media)
From old electronics to wrapping paper to leftover food, King County's EcoConsumer explains which holiday waste can and can't be recycled—video courtesy of KOMO NEWS
(Also available in Real Media format)
Dec. 24, 2008
New law allows free electronics recycling (external)
Washington residents looking to safely get rid of old computers and TVs can do so for free when a new statewide recycling program begins next year—from KOMO News
Dec. 23, 2008
Give King County's environment a hand by recycling your Christmas tree
Dec. 18, 2008
You can depend on King County's Waste Free Holidays
Still searching for a cool "experience" gift? Try our Waste Free Holidays Gift-o-Matic!
Dec. 10, 2008
Free computer and TV recycling program starting soon (external)
A free computer and TV recycling program starts January 1 in Washington—from King 5 News
Nov. 29, 2008
Easy ways to make the holidays green and jolly (PDF, 92 K)
Whether your holiday decorating style leans toward the traditional, the contemporary or the downright quirky, follow these tips for low-cost, eco-friendly decorating. Reprinted with permission from The Seattle Times.
Nov. 25, 2008
Let King County help you save green, go green with Waste Free Holiday gift ideas for 2008
Whether you’re into saving more money or helping to save the planet, King County’s Waste Free Holiday program is the perfect choice this holiday season.
Nov. 24, 2008
Waste News 2008 Environmental Award (external)
King County wins coveted environmental award for what may be “the greenest recycling and transfer station in the country.” From Waste News magazine.
Nov. 15, 2008
Protecting yourself from plastic hazards (PDF, 30 K)
"Better living through chemistry!" That chemical–company slogan from 50 years ago has largely come true. But "better living" can have hidden costs. Reprinted with permission from The Seattle Times.
Nov. 14, 2008
Waste Free Holidays program begins (external)
This annual waste reduction program includes some great experience gifts on the Eastside for families—from the Seattle Examiner – Eastside Parenting edition.
Nov. 13, 2008
Save time, money and the planet with King County's Waste Free Holidays promotion
Nov. 8, 2008
It's getting easier to feel good about your furniture (PDF, 38 K)
Just like every picture tells a story, so does every piece of furniture. Reprinted with permission from The Seattle Times.
Oct. 31, 2008
Shoreline Recycling and Transfer Station earns two more awards for sustainable design
Chalk up two more high-profile honors for King County’s recently redeveloped Shoreline Recycling and Transfer Station.
Oct. 22, 2008
Eeek-o-friendly Halloween
With some spooky and colorful young guests, King County EcoConsumer Tom Watson shows viewers some costumes made from used materials and other ways to have a green Halloween—from KOMO News
Oct. 18, 2008
A green Halloween is very eek-o chic (PDF, 29 K)
How do you turn a black-and-orange holiday into a green one? Reprinted with permission from The Seattle Times.
Oct. 8, 2008
Five ways to save energy this winter (external)
Gary Chittim's report features King County EcoConsumer Tom Watson showing some energy-saving products—from KING5.com
Oct. 8, 2008
Waste wood to heat downtown Seattle buildings (external)
Starting next year, about half of downtown Seattle might be partially heated by ... wood—from The Seattle Times
Oct. 7, 2008
Rechargeable battery recycling efforts earn King County national award
Oct. 3, 2008
Green building could get King County grants
Local green building projects receive funding; New grant round in 2009
Oct. 1, 2008
King County going electric to cut fuel consumption
New report outlines key initiatives to grow plug-in vehicle market
Oct. 1, 2008
King County honors sustainably designed, built projects with ‘Greening in Place’ awards
Sept. 24, 2008
King County launches video podcast to help homeowners be better recyclers
With just a few clicks of a mouse, King County residents can now learn how to make recycling at home easy and convenient.
Sept. 16, 2008
We recycle cans and bottles, why not buildings? (external)
A large percentage of municipal landfill waste is from construction and demolition debris, estimated to be between 20 and 30 percent nationally—editorial from The Seattle Times.
Sept. 12, 2008
New Shoreline Recycling and Transfer Station earns rare national top rating for green building
The national organization dedicated to expanding green-building practices has awarded the Shoreline station with its highest designation – the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) platinum certification.
Sept. 5, 2008
King County seeks ‘Waste Free Holidays’ partners
King County Solid Waste Division invites businesses and organizations that offer "experience gifts" to join its award-winning waste prevention program.
Aug. 31, 2008
King County: Somebody's trash (external)
A crackdown on illegal dumping should make a difference for King County rural areas too often littered with somebody else's trash—from The Seattle Post-Intelligencer.
Aug. 25, 2008
County ordinance would crack down on dumping (external)
Measure seeks $100 fine for violators—from The Seattle Post-Intelligencer
Aug. 24, 2008
Want to sell your house as green? Best get it certified (external)
From HeraldNet (Everett, WA)
Aug. 23, 2008
Going back-to-school shopping? Be kind to your wallet and the planet (PDF, 67 K)
The never-ending parental juggling act gets even trickier at back-to-school time, especially if you want to go green and spend lean—reprinted with permission from The Seattle Times.
Aug. 21, 2008
Sims seeks stronger enforcement of King County’s illegal dumping rules
Aug. 20, 2008
King County Pilot Program Introduces Young Adults To High Wage Environmental Jobs (external)
From The Seattle Medium
Aug. 5, 2008
Teens' 'clean' carwash raises money (external)
Their salmon-friendly kit keeps soap out of waterways—from The Seattle Post-Intelligencer
July 28, 2008
Outsource Marketing again named King County ‘Best Recycling Workplace’ (external)
From Eastside Business
July 26, 2008
Redmond’s Accents et Cetera gets nod for recycling (external)
From The Redmond Reporter
July 23, 2008
Six businesses named best places to recycle (external)
From The Kirkland Reporter
July 19, 2008
It takes a less-is-more attitude to embrace smaller houses (PDF, 66 K)
In these troubled economic times, the savings from buying and living in a smaller home loom large.
Reprinted with permission from The Seattle Times.
July 18, 2008
Eastside companies are 34 of 50 Best Workplaces for Recycling (external)
These workplaces demonstrated the very best recycling programs in their business practices and for their employees—from Eastside Business
July 17, 2008
King County announces second-annual ‘Best Workplaces for Recycling’ list
June 28, 2008
Cleaning the basement or garage can make a big green difference (external)
By Tom Watson, King County's EcoConsumer—from The Seattle Times
June 26, 2008
King County announces winner of ‘Recycle More Neighborhood Challenge’
See more coverage from The Seattle Times, King5.com, KOMO4 News and The Renton Reporter (external links).
June 25, 2008
Renton families wrap up recycling challenge June 26 (external)
It's the home stretch in the Renton Neighborhood Challenge, and the competitors are still going strong—from the Renton Reporter
See how the contestants are doing in the 'Recycle More Neighborhood Challenge'
June 13, 2008
Renton Neighborhood Challenge contestant is 38 lbs. lighter, all from recycling (external)
Two weeks ago, Baiba Rubino had the most trash to lose. Weighing in at 63 pounds, her garbage was dumped in front of reporters and photographers, while a "garbologist" picked through her family's dirty diapers and rotting crab leg, pointing out items that could be recycled—from The Seattle Times
May 30, 2008
Renton recycling contestants go on "trash diet" (external)—from The Seattle Times
View additional video coverage from King5.com and KOMOnews.com (external)
May 19, 2008
Recycling options lag the compact fluorescent push (external)
It's a message being drummed into the heads of homeowners everywhere: Swap out those incandescent lights with longer-lasting compact fluorescent bulbs and cut your electric use.
May 15, 2008
Taxpayers and the Earth save 'green' with King County's environmental purchasing policy
May 8, 2008
Workshop for builders addresses techniques for green deconstruction and salvage
May 6, 2008
Thou Shalt Sort Thy Plastics (external)
How bad is it to mix your soda bottles with your yogurt cups? The Green Lantern: Illuminating answers to environmental questions—from Slate Magazine online
April 30, 2008
Some recyclers getting greenwashed (external)
King County EcoConsumer Tom Watson helps explain how some packaging may deceptively carry the recycling symbol, even though it is not actually accepted by residential recycling programs—from KING5.com
April 23, 2008
Learning the recycling habit (external)
Both Snoqualmie Elementary School and Chief Kanim Middle School have received Earth Hero at School awards after integrating the recycling of not only paper and bottles but also banana peels and milk cartons into the school routine—from the SnoValley Star
April 23, 2008
One in five Seattle residents may be affected by TV change (external)
Residents who have an analog television and use "rabbit ears" or a rooftop antenna will need a digital converter box to get reception after Feb. 17—from The Seattle Post-Intelligencer
April 22, 2008
Living Green! Experts Answer your Green Living Questions (external)
King County EcoConsumer Tom Watson responds to questions from listeners—audio file from Weekday on KUOW 94.9 FM.
April 22, 2008
Evening Magazine goes green (external)
King County EcoConsumer Tom Watson does an "eco-intervention" at the home of Evening Magazine reporter Michael King—from KING5.com
April 22, 2008
Green spring cleaning – Where does it all go? (external)
King County EcoConsumer Tom Watson helps a Shoreline family go green as they spring-clean - Part two in a series—from KING5.com
April 18, 2008
A warning for those recycling electronics (external)
Concerns are raised about where junk taken to free events ends up—from The Seattle Post-Intelligencer
April 16, 2008
Going green (external)
Black Diamond students are doing something about waste—from The Enumclaw Courier-Herald
April 16, 2008
King County's new Shoreline Recycling and Transfer Station earns design group recognition
April 9, 2008
Ciscoe Morris' To-do List: Try a more natural way when you're doing garden chores
If you're interested in natural gardening methods but aren't sure where to start, check out the five steps of natural yard care—from The Seattle Post-Intelligencer
April 2, 2008
Do Yellow Pages have you seeing red? (external)
National report includes interviews with Renton resident and King County's Tom Watson—from MSNBC.com
April 2, 2008
Springtime brings green gardens and savings during Northwest Natural Yard Days
March 31, 2008
See how King County protects the environment; Check out the 2007 DNRP annual report online
March 21, 2008
Can anything be done about unwanted phone books? (external)
Herb Weisbaum's report includes interviews with irate County residents and King County EcoConsumer Tom Watson—from KOMO4.com
March 20, 2008
Green spring cleaning easier than ever (external)
King County EcoConsumer Tom Watson helps a Shoreline family go green as they spring-clean—from KING5.com
March 18, 2008
Workshops for builders address the future of sustainable building
King County GreenTools workshops March 25, 27 in Seattle
March 10, 2008
Hospitals go greener to improve bottom line (external)
Composting, recycling can cut their costs—from The Seattle Post-Intelligencer.
March 5, 2008
Latex paint now OK for the trash in King County (external)
Here's a heads up for anyone who lives in King County, but outside the city of Seattle. You can now put paint – latex paint – in your trash can—from KOMOTV.com
March 3, 2008
Low-impact development focus of March 5 ‘GreenTools’ workshop
Feb. 25, 2008
Health officials document recalled beef disposal at King County's Cedar Hills Regional Landfill
Feb. 15, 2008
Sims says sustainable green-building ordinance benefits King County's taxpayers, environment
Feb. 14, 2008
Green transfer station to open in Shoreline (external)
King County leaders are proudly introducing what they call the most environmentally friendly facility of its kind in the country—from King5.com
Feb. 13, 2008
New Shoreline recycling and transfer station embodies King County's green building push
Jan. 29, 2008
King County's Master Recycler Composter training program returns to Federal Way
Jan. 22, 2008
Finally, a safe, environmental way to get rid of old medicine (external)
Group Health Cooperative pharmacies, in cooperation with government agencies and environmental groups, are accepting unused prescription and over-the-counter drugs, then sending them away to be incinerated—from The Seattle Times.
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2007 News & Topics Archive
Dec. 20, 2007
King County encourages residents to recycle their Christmas trees
Dec. 20, 2007
Teacher's video on global warming a hit online
Craven's earnest and quirky appeal to act on climate change has collected more than 4 million views worldwide—from The Seattle Times
Dec. 18, 2007
First rate increases in 9 years will help modernize King County’s solid waste transfer stations
Dec. 14, 2007
Dozens of last-minute gift ideas available with King County's Waste Free Holidays program
Dec. 10, 2007
King County Green Schools Program recognizes Issaquah School District for recycling, conservation
With assistance from the King County Green Schools Program – which helps schools to conserve natural resources and become better stewards of the environment – the Issaquah School District is recycling more, conserving more energy and water and saving money.
Dec. 5, 2007
What's Your Holiday Gift Giving Policy? (external)
King County's EcoConsumer Tom Watson shares some tips on reducing your carbon footprint while shopping—from The Converstation on KUOW 94.9 AM.
note: The EcoConsumer segment starts 34 minutes into the show.
Nov. 23, 2007
Dreaming of a green Christmas? Shrink your environmental footprint (external)
Environmentalists and solid-waste officials are urging shoppers to consider the ecological effects of their purchases.—from The Seattle Post-Intelligencer.
Nov. 30, 2007
Experience a waste-free holiday season (external)
As shoppers scurry to purchase holiday gifts, King County hopes some will invest in experiences rather than material objects—from the Federal Way Mirror.
Nov. 20, 2007
Sammamish unveils LEED-certified City Hall
'Silver'-rated project is first of several for new 'green' Sammamish Commons
Nov. 19, 2007
Single-, multi-family projects could be eligible for Built Green™ grants funded by King County, Seattle
Builders of single- and multi-family projects in King County could be eligible to receive grant funding through the Built Green™ incentives program, which promotes environmentally friendly construction.
Nov. 15, 2007
This year, give the gift of ‘green’ through King County’s Waste Free Holidays program
'Experience' gifts, offered at discounts of 15-50 percent, help cut holiday waste
Nov. 15, 2007
Green schools save money and energy (external)
Science teacher Mike Town and his students are working to lower Redmond High School's carbon emissions, one classroom at a time – from the The Seattle Times.
Oct. 30, 2007
Take Winter by Storm
Region's leaders announce new measures to speed winter response as they kick-off annual storm campaign
Oct. 10, 2007
Sims recommends confirmation of Theresa Jennings as King County Natural Resources and Parks Director
Jennings served as director of the Solid Waste Division for four years, managing a diverse work force of more than 400 employees, from financial and policy analysts to welders and truck drivers.
Sept. 1, 2007
Panel, Panel on the Wall (external)
By 2008, devices that contain flat panel displays (FPDs) are projected to account for nearly 85 percent of the total U.S. demand for electronic products. Taking a proactive approach to this issue, the King County Solid Waste Division has conducted the first known comprehensive review of information regarding the end-of-life management issues associated with FPDs—from Waste Age.
Aug. 30, 2007
"Recycle More. It's Easy to Do" television ads win 2007 Telly Awards.
Telly Awards honor the very best local, regional, and cable television commercials and programs, as well as the finest video and film productions.
Aug. 22, 2007
Home wins nation's highest green rating (external)
Designed to be earth-friendly, energy efficient—from The Seattle Times
Aug. 19, 2007
If house has to go, at least it can go ‘green’ – piece by piece (external)
Deconstruction crews salvage siding, floors, even nails—from The Seattle Post-Intelligencer
Aug. 10, 2007
King County helps commercial building projects 'go green' with grants to owners
Aug. 6, 2007
Consumer Smarts: Calls go out to stop phone book waste
National efforts are under way to find a way to reduce phone book waste, and King County is at the forefront—from The Seattle Post-Intelligencer
Aug. 1, 2007
King County EcoConsumer helps spread the word about ‘green living’ on new national TV show
Aug. 1, 2007
King County to profit from trash converted to gas (external)
King County has cleared the way for a deal to turn decades of trash into fuel for the future—from King5.com
July 26, 2007
Some would like to play taps for bottled water (external)
Just say H-2-No. That's what an increasing number of public officials, environmental advocates and restaurateurs are urging people to do when they're tempted to reach for bottled water—from The Seattle Times
July 24, 2007
Pact reached to turn gas from landfill into energy (external)
Gas produced by rotting garbage at the Cedar Hills landfill could warm homes and cook food by the end of 2008 under an agreement approved Monday by the King County Council—from The Seattle Times
July 20, 2007
King County announces ‘best workplaces for recycling’
First-annual list recognizes local companies with exemplary recycling practices
July 18, 2007
King County requires 'clean dirt' on construction sites (external)
In King County, post–construction rules require workers to leave the dirt cleaner than they found it—article and video from King5.com
July 17, 2007
Food-trash recycling at homes to be required by Seattle in '09 (external)
All single-family homes in Seattle must sign up for table-scrap recycling in 2009—from The Seattle Times
July 16, 2007
King County receives national recognition awards for innovative preservation and conservation programs
King County won the National Association of Counties "Best of Category for Energy Conservation and Environmental Protection" award for its Green Schools program, which helps schools and school districts with waste reduction, recycling and other resource conservation efforts.
July 11, 2007
King County promotes the importance of healthy soil
King County is helping to improve soils by implementing post-construction standards on soil depth and quality in unincorporated areas. Other local governments in western Washington will follow suit with similar standards before 2010.
June 28, 2007
King County launches food waste education program
'Recycle Food. It's Easy to Do' campaign encourages food waste in yard waste cart.
June 27, 2007
Do you know what goes in a yard–waste bin? (external)
No, the answer´s not that easy but King County can tell you.—from The Seattle Post-Intelligencer.
June 7, 2007
The truth about recycling (external)
As the importance of recycling becomes more apparent, questions about it linger. Is it worth the effort? How does it work?—from The Economist.
June 4, 2007
High-tech TV means low-tech trash (external)
As new high-definition televisions fly off store shelves, millions of old sets soon could be flying into the trash—from The Seattle Times.
June 4, 2007
There's money in rotten carrots (external)
Profile of the Cedar Grove Composting facility in Everett—from The Economist
May 24, 2007
King County fetes region's 10,000th 'built-green' home at White Center's Greenbridge community
May 5, 2007
More low-income housing being built green (external)
Early Seattle efforts helped inspire state and federal support—from the Seattle Post-Intelligencer
May 5, 2007
The environmental side effects of old medicine (external)
By Tom Watson, King County's EcoConsumer – from The Seattle Times
May 4, 2007
Green homebuilders still seeking a market (external)
An increasing number of developers are touting the environmental credentials of their projects – from the Seattle Post-Intelligencer
May 3, 2007
King County accepting applications for 'Best Workplaces for Recycling' list
Companies with exceptional recycling programs are encouraged to see how they rate against other businesses on King County's "Best Workplaces for Recycling" list.
April 21, 2007
Some recycling dos and don'ts (external)
Earth Day was April 22 but, when you think about it, we need to take care of our planet every day – from KOMOTV.com
April 17, 2007
Boeing recycling practices nets $60 million (external)
At The Boeing Co., being green isn't just good for the environment -- it's good for business – from the Seattle Post-Intelligencer.
April 12, 2007
Campaign: Litter and it will hurt (external)
The state has launched a new TV campaign with the title "litter and it will hurt." The message: Litter isn't just an eyesore; it can also be deadly – from KOMOTV.com.
April 6, 2007
Spring gardening savings begin with Northwest Natural Yard Days
Everyone from Bellingham to Olympia can take advantage of savings of up to 25 percent on natural yard care products such as mulch mowers, bagged compost, bark mulch and water wands as part of the ninth-annual Northwest Natural Yard Days campaign.
March 27, 2007
King County honors its employees with Building Green Awards
More than three dozen King County employees were honored recently for their dedication to providing excellent and innovative public service.
March 23, 2007
Do you know your carbon footprint? (external)
One local family wants to make its footprint lighter in time for Earth Day – video from KING5.com.
March 21, 2007
"Zero-energy" homes planned in Issaquah (external)
Your future home could come from the recycling bin. Solar energy would power it. The best part? Utility bills would be next to nothing – from The Seattle Times.
March 14, 2007
King County, Seattle offering new incentives for green-building residential projects
Single-family residential developers have a new way to "go green," thanks to a new incentive program from King County and the City of Seattle.
March 14, 2007
The end of garbage (external)
Can you imagine a world of zero waste? Cities and towns across the world - and a surprising number of companies - have adopted that goal – from Fortune magazine.
March 2, 2007
New way to dump old meds (external)
Pioneering 'drug take-back' program could help keep water safe - from The Everett Herald
Feb. 16, 2007
The art of trash talk
Decorated bins go on exhibit with a message: Recycle more - from the Seattle Post-Intelligencer.
Feb. 7, 2007
King County Proposes Global Warming Action Plan
Other cities, counties urged to join effort.
Feb. 3, 2007
Feeding "The Big Pig" and saving the planet (external)
Students at Covington's Crestwood Elementary School tend to the first Earth Tub composting system in a King County school - from the The Seattle Times. Crestwood Elementary is a member of King County's Green Schools Program.
Feb. 2, 2007
Climate change questions answered (external)
Few scientists dispute global warming is real - from the Seattle Post-Intelligencer.
Jan. 3, 2007
Trying to stamp out unwanted junk mail (external)
It's not your imagination. Your mailbox is filling up faster with unsolicited missives - from the Seattle Post-Intelligencer.
Jan. 2, 2007
King County seeks nominations for 2007 'Earth Heroes at Schools'
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2006 News & Topics Archive
Dec. 27, 2006
King County suggests Christmas tree recycling options
Dec. 20, 2006
Become an expert in the field of waste prevention
Register now for King County's 'Master Recycler Composter' Program in 2007.
Dec. 20, 2006
Think about that tree (external)
Article from The Seattle Times highlighting tree-cycling, holiday planning and holiday transportation options.
Dec. 19, 2006
King County encourages recycling alternatives to Christmas tree disposal
Dec. 14, 2006
Give an experience and cut down waste with King County’s Waste Free Holidays
Nov. 10, 2006
King County launches campaign to improve business recycling rates
Local companies invited to apply for 'Best Workplaces for Recycling' list
Nov. 10, 2006
Scrap paper brings healthy profits
King County businesses are learning about a dependable way to cut costs and add profits - from King 5 News
Nov. 10, 2006
Recycling pays – and county aims to prove it
From Puget Sound Business Journal
Oct. 13, 2006
King County offering new green-building incentives
Funds, permitting assistance available to commercial, residential developers
Oct. 9, 2006
Investing in the "infrastructure of our future"
Sims proposes upgrades, repairs to roads, wastewater and solid waste systems
Sept. 26, 2006
King County's Solid Waste Division launches its "Recycle more. It's easy to do." recycling campaign
Sept. 28, 2006
Seattle/King County Natural Yard Care Method Goes National (PDF, 30 K)
Sept. 21, 2006
Take It Back Network expands to accommodate banned fluorescent bulbs and tubes
Sept. 13, 2006
King County's EcoConsumer experts offer green-living tips at expo
Seattle Green Living Expo set for Sept. 16-17, 23-24 at High Point
Aug. 24, 2006
Whole Foods joins Fall Northwest Natural Yard Days, offers discounts Sept. 1 - 30
Aug. 22, 2006
Environmental action earns Federal Way School District 'Green Schools' honor from King County, city
Aug. 8, 2006
King County wins national honors for creative and innovative programs
National Association of Counties cites three outstanding King County programs, including Northwest Natural Yard Days and King County EcoConsumer.
Aug. 7, 2006
Bow Lake Transfer and Recycling Station Renovation Project
The King County Solid Waste Division will construct a new transfer and recycling station at the site of the existing Bow Lake Transfer and Recycling Station in Tukwila and on adjacent property to the north that the division plans to purchase for this project.
July 25, 2006
King County to join climate exchange (external)
The King County Council authorized County Executive Ron Sims on Monday to make the county the first in the nation to join a marketplace whose members buy and sell "carbon credits" as a way of trying to slow global warming - from The Seattle Times.
July 24, 2006
King County completes South Park landfill site sale
July 12, 2006
Global warming: They're not laughing at Ron Sims now (external)
From The Seattle Times.
June 19, 2006
Stop dancing with dinosaurs (external)
U.S. Conference of Mayors votes for sharp reductions in fossil-fuel use. The goal: to make the nation's building stock "carbon-neutral" (using no more fuels made from oil, coal or natural gas) by 2030. From The Seattle Times.
June 16, 2006
Taking Recycling To The Next Level (external)
Article and companion audio highlighting King County's LinkUp program - from KOMO 1000 News.
May 23, 2006
Environmental Stewardship in King County
2005 Annual Report, Department of Natural Resources and Parks
May 11, 2006
Paint recycler partners with LinkUp program
MetroPaint offers customers 100 percent recycled latex paint
May 11, 2006
Paint recycler partners with LinkUp program
MetroPaint offers customers 100 percent recycled latex paint
April 24, 2006
King County celebrates the Earth Heroes of local schools
The 2006 Earth Heroes at Schools awards honor environmental stewards
April 20, 2006
Spring savings helps local residents go natural
April 15, 2006
A different kind of road rage (external)
Editorial highlighting the importance of secured loads, from The Seattle Times.
April 13, 2006
Sims: Secure loads to prevent more traffic tragedies
There have been four fatalities and numerous serious injuries on Washington state roads in just the past six months because of unsecured loads.
April 2, 2006
Out to make waste history (external)
City of Olympia considers zero-waste resolution. From The Olympian.
March 22, 2006
King County Executive Ron Sims announces 'Acting Locally' package of reforms
Executive Orders commit the county to use all waste gases produced at the Cedar Hills Landfill for climate-friendly energy purposes.
March 18, 2006
Just because you're done with it doesn't mean everyone is… (external)
From the Seattle Post-Intelligencer.
March 17, 2006
Recycle and reuse (external, scroll to view)
From The Seattle Times
March 16, 2006
King County honored with Built Green™ advocate award
March 8, 2006
New advances in electronics recycling (external)
From KING 5 News
March 7, 2006
Handbag designer partners with LinkUp program
Feb. 23, 2006
EcoDeals.org hosts free green-building workshop March 1 at Environmental Home Center
Feb. 21, 2006
Hazardous-waste pickup (external)
from The Seattle Times
Feb. 15, 2006
Cell phone recycling made easy in King County
County staff recycle nearly 400 phones; public can use "Take It Back Network"
Feb. 13, 2006
Woman Nearly Killed By Flying Piece Of Plywood (external)
Article highlighting the importance of secured loads – from KOMO 4 News
Feb. 7, 2006
Dig it: King County promotes 'healthy soil' at Flower & Garden Show, Feb. 8-12 in Seattle
Jan. 27, 2006
King County seeks nominations of Earth Heroes in local schools
Jan. 7, 2006
State debates who should pay to recycle e-waste (external link)
From the Seattle Post-Intelligencer
Jan. 1, 2006
Moderate Risk Waste Surcharge Increase
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2005 News & Topics Archive
Dec. 22, 2005
Interested in waste prevention, recycling, home composting?
Free Master Recycler Composter Program returns to King County
Nov. 23, 2005
Kick off the holiday shopping season with King County's Waste Free Holidays program
Nov. 16, 2005
Clean, new life envisioned for old South Park dump (external)
From the Seattle Post-Intelligencer
Nov. 7, 2005
King County works out deal to bring business, jobs to vacant South Park landfill property
Oct. 10, 2005
King County: Recycled bits 2.0 – commentary about electronics ban, from the Seattle Post-Intelligencer editorial board (external link)
Oct. 5, 2005
King County Solid Waste Division wins 3 Excellence Awards
Sept. 30, 2005
King County Solid Waste Division Web site earns Digital Government Achievement Award
Sept. 30, 2005
Quarterly report highlights efficiencies, effectiveness of Solid Waste Division
Sept. 27, 2005
Staples joins King County to recycle computer equipment as E-waste ban takes effect October 1st
Aug. 29, 2005
A new King County hotline makes reporting illegal dumpsites easier
August 10, 2005
Report helps King County DNRP see how it measures up
July 28, 2005
New Service – report illegal dumping online
July 27, 2005
Measure the impact of your purchasing decisions with the new EcoConsumer Waste Calculator
July 19, 2005
Department of Natural Resources and Parks 3rd Annual Performance Measures Report
March 30, 2005
King County's Solid Waste Division meets cost savings and customer service goals
February 15, 2005
King County hoping to switch off source of mercury emissions
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2004 News & Topics Archive
December 10, 2004
Washington County Taking Steps to Reduce Mercury Pollution – Recycling Today (external)
December 4, 2004
Manufacturers to replace toxic cars switches – King 5 news (external)
Note: free registration is required to view this article.
Aug. 31, 2004
King Street Center grabs the gold
May 21, 2004
Judge agrees with King County Solid Waste court case
March 31, 2004
Court halts county from ending subsidies to private garbage haulers
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2003 News & Topics Archive
Dec. 9, 2003
Sims thanks council for passing solid waste plan that will allow more than $9 million in efficiencies
Oct. 21, 2003
King County earns top national honors from EPA for recycling
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