We regulate water and hazardous waste activities at the U.S. Oil and Refining Co. oil refinery, tank farm, and marine terminal in Tacoma. The refinery began operating in 1957, and has about 190 ...

Every year, 20 billion gallons of oil moves through Washington by vessel, rail, and pipeline, posing significant risk of environmental damage. The risks associated with all modes of oil transportation ...

This is a kraft pulp and paper mill and box plant. With around 1,000 employees, the mill makes about 3,600 tons of paper and corrugated products and 2,800 tons of unbleached pulp each day. They treat ...

Stormwater is rain and snow melt that runs off surfaces such as rooftops, paved streets, highways, and parking lots. As water runs off these surfaces, it can pick up pollutants that contaminate local ...

The first statewide law to create a coordinated and inclusive approach to environmental justice was passed by the Washington Legislature in 2021. Soon after, our Office of Equity & Environmental ...

Washington's recycled content law (Chapter 70A.245 RCW) sets minimum post-consumer recycled content (PCRC) standards for specific products. This page explains which products are subject to the law and ...

The Department of Ecology is starting the rulemaking process to amend Chapters 173-18, -20, -22, -26, and -27 under the Shoreline Management Act. Visit the rulemaking page for more information.

Public comments are accepted over a 30-, 45-, or 60-day period. During that time, you can share your input with us about specific changes in the permits we regulate. We review all comments and then ...

Product stewardship, sometimes called Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), places the focus on producers of materials that are impactful to the waste system and environment. The idea is that ...

Washington adopted a color-code for waste containers and lids in 2025. Studies show that standard bin colors and labels can improve recycling outcomes that lead to environmental benefits. Starting in ...

The Beach Environmental Assessment, Communication & Health (BEACH) Program ensures that marine water is safe to swim and play in and informs the public if water doesn't meet swimming standards.

Completing this project will resolve water quality issues, help address invasive species concerns, and re-establish important habitat for juvenile salmonids by restoring 260 acres of estuarine and ...