Lauren Norris, Program Manager for the Master Recycler Program
administered by the City of Portland’s Bureau of Planning and Sustainability,
noted that more than 1,800 people have learned about recycling processes,
composting, alternatives to hazardous household products, thoughtful
consumption and green building.

“People come for different reasons, but also to bring resources and ideas and
knowledge to projects they want to get done in their own communities,”
Norris said.

This spring, the regional program will return to Clackamas County, with
limited spots available for participants to enjoy a hands-on opportunity to
learn about recycling and waste reduction. The spring session will start
Wednesday, April 1, and run for eight consecutive Wednesdays, at Clackamas
County’s Development Services Building, 150 Beavercreek Road, Oregon City.
There will also be two half-day field trips on Saturdays.

Norris noted in addition to recycling, the program also focuses on repairing
and resource sharing, including how “repair fairs” and “libraries of things” are
helping minimize the impact on what people buy.

“Most libraries in Clackamas County have a ‘library of things,’” she said.
Norris also noted the program, which started in 1991 with a nonprofit in
Seattle and then spread to Oregon State University, is evolving, including a
complete overhaul of the course handbook four years ago to include a look at
materials management and the full life cycle of materials. That can help with
decisions about where changes can be made to make bigger impacts.
“It really is an exciting, new document they receive on the first day,” Norris
said.

The course is a blend of presentations by professionals in the field, peer group
discussion and project development. Participants agree to attend all classes
and field trips and, after completing the course, put their skills to work to help
others conserve natural resources by volunteering 30 hours of public
outreach.

Master Recyclers work at information booths at community events, provide
presentations in the community, work on original projects and inspire their
neighbors and co-workers.

A $50 fee covers course materials and limited scholarships are available.
Registration closes at noon, Wednesday, March 4. For more details and to
apply, visit www.masterrecycler.org.

The regional Master Recycler Program is sponsored by Metro, the City of
Portland, Clackamas County, Washington County, the Oregon Department of
Environmental Quality and Recycling Advocates.