Recycling 101

 

Protect natural resources by learning about recycling, composting, and waste reduction with Recycling 101, an online, self-paced course created in partnership with Oregon State University.

For a limited time, enroll for $35.
(AOR member rate is always $20.)

Now available in Spanish.

You can also complete Reciclando en Oregón 101 in Spanish at no additional cost.

También puede completar el curso gratuito Reciclando en Oregón 101 en español.

Recycling 101 gives you the knowledge and tools to make smarter waste prevention choices at home and at work. Through dynamic videos, case studies, and interactive content, you’ll explore the life cycle of materials and learn how to influence others to make more sustainable decisions.

Modeled after the successful Master Recycler program, originally launched in 2012 and updated in 2025, this eight-part course covers waste reduction, composting, and residential and commercial recycling.

By the end of the course, you’ll be equipped to reduce your environmental footprint and help save money, energy, and resources.

What You’ll Learn

  • How consumer choices impact the environment and resource conservation
  • The most effective actions for waste reduction and recycling
  • How materials move through the recycling system and product life cycles
  • Composting systems and food waste reduction strategies
  • Safe and legal disposal methods for hazardous waste
  • Available resources for recycling plastics, paper, and other materials

Course Topics Include

  • Oregon’s Plastic Pollution and Recycling Modernization Act
  • Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), including mattress stewardship and Oregon E-Cycles
  • Right to Repair
  • Environmental justice
  • Food waste reduction
  • And more!

Promote Recycling 101 in your community.

Access ready-to-use graphics, messaging, and outreach materials in the Recycling 101 Marketing Toolkit.

How to Enroll

Sign up for the Recycling 101 Certificate anytime. 

  • Standard price: $50
  • Limited-time offer: $35
  • AOR members: $20

Want to try it first? The first module is available for free.

The course is fully online and self-paced. You’ll have 24 months to complete all modules and can start and stop at any time.

Enroll today and start making a meaningful impact.