Ask an Expert: Why aren’t there more recycling options in Montana?

Montana is the fourth largest state geographically with only about 1.1 million residents. The state is vast and largely rural. Additionally, many recycled materials must be transported out of the state for processing as we do not have the infrastructure to recycle in-state.  

Despite these enormous challenges, recycling happens across Montana. Due to the nature of the state, ease and access to resources are not as convenient as they might be in a more densely populated state. Materials management specialists at the state are working on bolstering recycling programs in rural areas. Some types of materials are easier and more economically feasible to recycle than others.  

For example, the markets for aluminum, steel, paper and cardboard more reliably keep recycling programs sustainable despite fluctuations. On the other hand, the market for recycled plastics is extremely tumultuous and has been experiencing historic lows due to virgin plastic currently being the much cheaper option. Plastic is less widely recycled, especially in Montana, due to the shipping costs. Additionally, while glass recycling is available in the Flathead Valley through Black Bear Recycling, it costs a fee due to the weight of glass and the associated shipping costs.  

Our responsibility as Montanans is to recycle the accepted materials in our area as much and as well as we can. In Kalispell, if we were able to recycle even 90% of our aluminum cans or cardboard, the difference would be massive. In Kalispell, there are several established, successful recycling programs that need the people in the Flathead Valley’s enthusiastic participation. Recycling takes place at the Flathead County Landfill with additional recycling locations in Bigfork, Columbia Falls, Creston, Lakeside, and Somers Container Sites. The Flathead County Landfill also accepts Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) for disposal every third Saturday (see their website for more information). Valley Recycling, conveniently located in Kalispell, accepts drop-off recycling. 

If you are looking for a curbside recycling service, Black Bear Recycling offers such a service for the Flathead Valley. Black Bear Recycling also offers glass recycling. E-waste recycling, composting and many other types of recycling also take place in the Flathead Valley. If you are interested in getting a comprehensive list of recycling options in the Flathead Valley, Google “What to Recycle Flathead Valley” and you will find a document put together by Citizens for a Better Flathead with recycling options in the Valley. Kalispell offers a significant number of resources to its residents for recycling. Like many other places in Montana, there are options to recycle that are not often taken advantage of due to lack of awareness or the inconvenience. Changing individual habits and getting community buy-in are the keys to having success in recycling.  

The DEQ is currently working on creating individualized waste management plans for six different regions across Montana. This work is funded by the Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling (SWIFR) grant with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). These plans detail the solid waste and recycling profile for each region through waste audits and meetings with landfill and recycling facilities. The aim is to increase waste diversion through recycling and waste reduction throughout Montana, and to provide facilities in the state with critical information regarding solutions to solid waste and recycling issues. 

Recycling in Montana is not without its challenges, but recycling happens every day across Montana due to the perseverance and work of local programs and the participation of Montanans. Join Montanans and start recycling! 

Montana Department of Environmental Quality Materials Management Program staff