Republic opens Seattle Learning Center

Phoenix-based environmental services provider Republic Services Inc. has opened the Seattle region’s first and only recycling education center at the its recycling facility in the area.

The Seattle Learning Center is designed to educate the community on proper recycling practices and offers visitors a behind-the-scenes look into recycling technology and the processes for separating different materials.  

“Republic Services shares the Puget Sound region’s strong commitment to sustainability and the environment,” says Ryan Lawler, area president for Republic. “Education plays a critical role in the effectiveness of recycling programs, and we’re proud to share our expertise through the Seattle Learning Center to increase the amount of recyclable materials collected in our community.”

RELATED: Rumpke emphasizes education, career development with Columbus MRF | Republic services launches simplified recycling education program for grades pre-K through 12

Photo courtesy of Republic Services

The learning center’s educational displays showcase recycling facts and best practices and illustrate the recycling process. Guided tours by recycling experts help visitors learn how to properly recycle materials and the positive impact recycling has on the Puget Sound region. Visitors can climb into the cab of a Republic Services recycling truck, and tours conclude with a virtual view of the recycling center’s operations. Free tours of Republic’s Seattle Learning Center can be scheduled by emailing RecyclePNW@republicservices.com.

Republic’s Seattle Recycling Facility, located within Seattle’s SoDo neighborhood, is one of the company’s largest, contributing to the region’s circular economy. Each year, the facility processes 200,000 tons of recyclables. Reuse of these materials has a climate benefit equal to planting 500,000 acres of forest or taking more than 85,000 gasoline-powered cars off the road.

Republic Services processes 5 million tons of recyclable materials annually through its 71 recycling facilities throughout the country. In addition to the Seattle Learning Center, the company operates learning centers in Las Vegas and Plano, Texas.