Seattle Public Utilities Remains Committed to Glass Recycling Amid Market Challenges

On November 7, Ardagh Glass Packaging, the major glass bottle manufacturer in the Seattle area, informed the Washington state government that it permanently closed its Seattle facility. This decision follows an earlier production pause in July 2024. Ardagh cited ongoing pressure from low-priced imports as a primary reason for their closure. This recently announced closure has created unprecedented challenges for glass recycling in Seattle and neighboring jurisdictions.

Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) and recycling partners are working with service providers and stakeholders to identify new recycling markets for glass and other alternative solutions that align with contractual standards and commitment to sustainability.

Businesses and residents in Seattle should still continue to put glass bottles and containers in their recycling carts. Please make sure all recyclables are empty, clean, and dry to prevent contamination and increase the quality and value of recyclable materials.

In addition, SPU is taking these actions to address unprecedented market conditions for glass:

• Regional Glass Recycling Roundtable: Seattle and King County have sponsored a Glass Recycling Roundtable with regional and national industry partners and municipalities that is meeting regularly to develop short- and long-term solutions for sustainable glass recycling.
• Collaboration with Strategic Materials Inc.: Strategic Materials Inc. (SMI), a local glass processor that cleans and sorts glass into clean glass cullet from recycling programs in the region, including glass collected in Seattle, has continued operations. SMI is developing new customers and diversifying its end markets to meet changing demands. SMI is stockpiling clean glass as it secures new customers and is renting temporary storage space from SPU.
• Support Glass Recycling Innovation: SPU is working with Seattle's Office of Economic Development as well as the Seattle Chamber of Commerce and other regional and state Economic Development organizations to support further innovation and collaboration around glass alternative uses and end markets.

Despite current challenges, there is a strong demand for recycled glass nationally. SPU is working with regional partners to support and restore local recycling operations and markets.

SPU prioritizes the responsible management of garbage, recycling, and food/yard waste through comprehensive curbside pickup services across the city. In collaboration with public and private partners, we work to ensure that our operations meet community needs while maintaining safety, sustainability, and efficiency. Read more about SPU and recycling in Seattle.