What is considered recyclable in California?

Living in California means caring about the environment, and recycling is a key part of that. But with different programs and nuances across the state, figuring out what goes where can feel overwhelming. Fear not, fellow Californian! This blog post will be your guide to mastering the art of recycling in the Golden State.

What's Universally Recyclable?

Luckily, some materials are universally accepted across California:

• Paper: Newspapers, magazines, envelopes, cardboard (flatten it!), paper bags (clean and dry).

• Glass: Bottles and jars (rinse them first!). Check your local program for colored glass guidelines.

• Metals: Aluminum cans, tin cans, clean foil.

• Plastic: This category gets tricky. Generally, stick to bottles and jugs with the recycling symbol and numbers 1 or 2. Check your local program for specific accepted plastics.

California's Recycling Nuances

Now, let's delve into the details that vary across the state:

• Cartons: Juice boxes, milk cartons, and other aseptic packaging are accepted in some areas but not others. Check your local program.

• Food Scraps & Yard Waste: Composting programs are becoming increasingly common. See if your city or county offers one and what they accept.

• E-waste: Electronics like TVs, computers, and batteries have specific disposal guidelines. Look for designated drop-off locations.

• Hazardous Waste: Items like paint, cleaners, and pesticides require special handling. Find local hazardous waste collection events or facilities.

Pro-Tips for Recycling:

• Know your local program: It's the key to success! Visit your city or county's website or call their waste management department.

• Download a recycling app: Many local programs offer apps with sorting guides and collection schedules.

• Rinse and flatten: Clean containers and flatten cardboard for better sorting and processing.

• Check for contamination: Avoid putting non-recyclable items in your bin. It can contaminate the entire batch!

• Spread the word: Share your recycling knowledge with friends and family. Together, we can make a difference!

Resources for Eco-Conscious Californians

• California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery (CalRecycle): https://calrecycle.ca.gov/

• Find a Recycling Center: https://earth911.com/

• America Recycles Day: https://kab.org/our-signature-programs/america-recycles-day/

By understanding the nuances of California's recycling landscape, you can become a responsible and informed recycler. Remember, every item sorted correctly is a step towards a cleaner, greener California!