Zero Waste California

Imagine a "Zero Waste California"—it is an image and philosophy that rings with hope and prosperity for the future of our Golden State.

California is a state rich in natural resources and has an environment unlike any other, and those resources need to be protected. In that effort, Zero Waste California stretches beyond our previously imagined goals. It is the ultimate in environmental stewardship—and a goal we can all work together to accomplish.

"To waste, to destroy our natural resources, to skin and exhaust the land instead of using it so as to increase its usefulness, will result in undermining in the days of our children the very prosperity which we ought by right to hand down to them amplified and developed."

--Theodore Roosevelt, Seventh Annual Message, December 3, 1907

More information on Zero Waste...

Waste Awareness

CalMAX...a simple idea
An online materials exchange service designed to help businesses, organizations, local governments, industry, schools, and individuals find markets for nonhazardous materials that may otherwise be discarded. "One business's trash is another business's treasure." Businesses, schools, and nonprofits can utilize CalMAX to search for available and wanted materials.

The U. S. Environmental Protection Agency's website lets you calculate your "carbon footprint," or personal/family greenhouse gas emissions. You can also find ways to lower your emissions while reducing your energy and waste disposal costs.

Tire Wise, Environmentally Smart: What Shape Are Your Tires In?
California Integrated Waste Management Board's educational tire sustainability program focuses on teaching drivers about the importance of taking simple care of their tires and maintenance steps to keep tires safe and performing at optimal level.

Recycle Plastic Grocery Bags
It will now be easier for consumers to recycle their plastic grocery bags. Most local grocery stores will be offering in-store recycling bins and reusable bags for purchase.

Recycled Products: Environmentally Sound, Economically Smart
The Recycled-Content Materials Marketing Program was created by the CIWMB to increase the understanding of and commitment to using specific recycled-content products by local jurisdictions.

Where do I send my TV?
E-waste is a popular, informal name for electronic products nearing the end of their "useful life." Computers, televisions, VCRs, stereos, copiers, and fax machines are common electronic products. Many of these products can be reused, refurbished, or recycled. Unfortunately, electronic discards is one of the fastest growing segments of our nation's waste stream. Find out more about recycling e-waste... (eRecycle.org public service announcement)

California Take-It-Back Partnership
The California Take-It-Back Partnership is collaboration between government and business to provide convenient locations for consumers to dispose of everyday items banned from the trash such as used batteries, fluorescent lamps, and electronic devices. To know where to go to drop off banned items please visit Earth 911. More information is available for retailers interested in becoming a Take-It-Back partner. California Take-It-Back Partnership, it's good for business and good for the environment.

Last updated: November 26, 2008

Zero Waste California, http://www.zerowaste.ca.gov
Office of Public Affairs, opa@ciwmb.ca.gov (916) 341-6300