The City of Kirkland and the City of Auburn have joined forces with the Refugee Artisan Initiative (RAI) to embark on an inspiring project aimed at enhancing recycling efforts in multifamily residences by 2025. This initiative, supported by King County Solid Waste grant funds, promotes environmental sustainability and empowers refugee women by providing them with employment opportunities, training, and valuable resources.

RAI is a Seattle based non-profit dedicated to supporting refugee women by offering fair-wage employment and teaching them essential skills. Through this project, current artisans are using their expertise to sew over 3,000 upcycled bags, earning equitable wages. Additionally, new artisans are being trained in RAI’s beginning sewing classes, learning to work with vinyl, so they too can contribute to this project and gain financial independence.

RAI has started repurposing large-format outdoor advertising materials, such as old banners and billboards, to create durable recycling bags for multifamily homes. This effort has already diverted thousands of pounds of plastic waste from landfills. RAI has an ambitious goal to upcycle at least 9,000 pounds of plastic over the next six months, further minimizing environmental impact.

Kirkland staff will be distributing these bags to multifamily residents this year. The bags created from upcycled materials are designed to conveniently fit under a sink or in closets, providing an accessible place to store recyclables before they are transferred to recycling carts or dumpsters. This initiative not only supports sustainable living but also educates residents on the importance of recycling. More information on Kirkland’s multifamily property support is available here.

We are immensely proud of this partnership, which not only supports local businesses but also contributes to reducing landfill waste. By distributing these upcycled bags to community members, we aim to enhance recycling habits and provide a practical, eco-friendly solution that underscores our commitment to sustainability and community empowerment.