Businesses can apply by June 17 to make the list of prestigious places where waste prevention and recycling are second nature

King County is now accepting applications for its annual “Best Workplaces for Waste Prevention and Recycling” list.

Marking the 10-year anniversary of the program, the list provides a venue for businesses to demonstrate their commitment to meaningful waste-reduction efforts and to glean ideas from other local businesses.

To be eligible, businesses must meet a set of five baseline criteria and at least 10 additional criteria from a list that includes company policies on waste reduction, plus programs, and practices.

Businesses that are new to the list will be acknowledged as newcomers and businesses that have been on the list for five years or more will receive Honor Roll status.  Each year, one business is highlighted for going above and beyond, receiving the King County’s “Re-Innovator Award.”

“King County businesses are doing a lot to help reduce the impacts of climate change by reducing waste,” said King County Solid Waste Division Program Manager Karen May. “Last year, we had 112 local businesses make the list, and we want to ensure businesses get the recognition they deserve for their efforts and inspire others to take action too.”

The application process is open to all businesses with at least one location in King County, outside of Seattle.

Businesses can apply regardless of size or sector. Last year, the list included businesses ranging from airlines to elementary schools and community hospitals to pizzerias.

Applications are due by June 17, and the 2016 Best Workplace businesses will be announced onJuly 20. To apply online, businesses should visit http://your.kingcounty.gov/solidwaste/garbage-recycling/best-workplaces.asp. For more information, contact Karen May at 206-477-5281 orkaren.may@kingcounty.gov.