Washington DC Bottle Bill Sustainability Summit

Overview

Empowering a Sustainable Washington D.C.

The urgency of addressing plastic pollution and its intricate link to the climate crisis has never been more pronounced. Washington D.C.'s Recycling Refund and Litter Reduction Amendment Act of 2025, also known as The Bottle Bill (B26-0058), offers a proven solution to the pervasive beverage container litter problem in our nation's capital and its associated climate impacts. B26-0058 establishes a refundable deposit program projected to triple recycling rates and cut wasted containers fivefold, significantly reducing climate risks. Modeled after successful programs in other states, the DC Bottle Bill presents an evidence-based strategy for climate change mitigation that will drastically reduce litter and enhance quality of life in our Washington D.C. communities. The legislation incentivizes high recycling rates by implementing the refundable deposit program. This will significantly reduce waste destined for landfills and incinerators, the primary sources of greenhouse gas emissions from this waste stream in our nation's capital. The bill also promotes cleaner, higher-quality recycled materials, fostering a circular economy. Register now and join Climate Reality Project DC online for a cleaner, more sustainable District.