View as Webpage

As the holidays approach and cooler weather settles in, now is a wonderful time to think about small changes that can make a big impact on our community and environment. This issue of our Sustainable Carlsbad newsletter includes updates on the city’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, tips for energy savings and ideas for making the most of this holiday season while reducing waste. 

An updated plan for how Carlsbad will reduce greenhouse gas emissions over the next 20 years was approved by the City Council last month, following more than two years of work.

The Climate Action Plan Update is designed to meet state targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by two key dates: 

• By 2035: Reduce emissions to half of 2016 levels.
• By 2045: Achieve an 85% reduction from 2016 levels.

The plan includes a variety of strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, including:

• Expanding renewable energy use
• Supporting greener transportation options
• Encouraging water efficiency
• Increasing organic waste recycling

These are just some of the approaches Carlsbad will take to help meet these ambitious goals. Learn more about the approved plan and how it will shape the city’s sustainability efforts. 

Experience the benefits of induction cooking by borrowing a single-burner, countertop induction cooktop kit from the Carlsbad City Library. These portable devices plug into a standard electrical outlet and are perfect for trying out this energy-efficient, modern cooking technology at home.

Induction cooktops use less energy, cook food faster and reduce greenhouse gas emissions compared to natural gas appliances. Many chefs love their precise temperature control and even heat distribution, making cooking easier and more efficient.

Each kit includes everything you need to get started: a portable induction cooktop, an induction-compatible pan and simple instructions. This new program is ideal for anyone considering a switch from natural gas to an electric induction stovetop.

How to borrow a cooktop

The library offers four kits that can be borrowed for up to 10 days. Here’s how to check one out:

• Place a hold: Use the online catalog or call 442-339-2038.
• Pick it up: Visit any library location and sign a waiver (available to cardholders ages 18+).
• Use and return: Try it out, then return it cleaned and ready for the next user.

The portable induction cooktop kits were generously donated by the U.S. Green Building Council California and the local chapter of the Sierra Club.

Curious about induction cooking? Here are answers to a few common questions: 

How is induction cooking different from electric or gas?

Induction cooktops use electromagnetic technology to heat cookware directly, instead of the cooktop surface. This allows for faster, more even heating and instant temperature adjustments.

Are induction cooktops hard to use?

Not at all! They offer precise temperature control, so whether you're simmering a sauce or searing meat, you’ll enjoy consistent results.

What about cookware—do I need to buy new pans?

Induction cooktops require cookware with a magnetic base, like cast iron or stainless steel. If a magnet sticks to the bottom of your pan, it will work. The library kit includes an induction-compatible pan to help you try it out.

Why would someone consider switching to induction?

Modern induction cooktops are more energy-efficient and considered safer than traditional gas or electric options. They also eliminate indoor air pollution caused by gas stoves, making them healthier for your home.

Holiday wrapping doesn’t have to be wasteful! Try these creative ideas to make your gifts stand out while reducing waste. 

• Good: Use recyclable wrapping paper. Plain brown kraft paper is a recyclable option and easy to decorate with hand-drawn designs, stamps or natural accents like twine and sprigs of greenery. Many store-bought papers are recyclable, too—just avoid ones with metallic finishes, glitter or plastic coatings. A quick tip: if the paper stays crumpled when you scrunch it, it’s likely recyclable in your blue recycling cart.
• Better: Choose wrapping paper made from recycled content. This reduces the need for new materials and gives old paper a second life. Some brands label their wrapping paper as both recyclable and made from recycled materials, making them an even better choice.
• Better yet: Use reusable gift bags. Fabric bags or sturdy paper ones can be saved and reused year after year.
• Best: Try Furoshiki gift wrapping. This traditional Japanese method uses square pieces of fabric to wrap gifts beautifully. Scarves, tea towels or festive fabric squares make perfect wrapping materials, with no tape or ribbons needed. Watch this video tutorial to get started, or bring a gift to the Fixit Clinic this Saturday for hands-on instruction and materials to wrap your gift in style.

By rethinking how you wrap gifts, you can reduce waste, save resources and inspire others to embrace more sustainable traditions. 

Bring your broken items—whether it’s a toy, bike, small kitchen appliance or something else—and let our volunteer repair coaches guide you through the process. Not only will you gain valuable skills for future repairs, but if your item can’t be fixed, you’ll leave with a deeper understanding of how it works and how it was made.

This is the perfect opportunity to get something fixed before the holidays. Along with the usual repair services, consider bringing in something special to restore—whether it’s a cherished item to display during the season or a unique gift idea for someone on your list.

For our last Fixit Clinic of the year, we’re adding a holiday twist with sustainability-focused activities that celebrate the season while caring for the planet.

• Reduce: Learn Furoshiki, the Japanese art of fabric gift wrapping, for a reusable and stylish alternative to wrapping paper.
• Repurpose: Transform old glass bottles into festive taper candle holders.
• Reuse: Bring holiday decorations you no longer need to exchange for something new to you.
• Recycle: Drop off broken holiday light strands for proper recycling by Republic Services.

Fixit Clinic: Sustainable holidays edition

Saturday, Dec. 7

10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Cole Library

1250 Carlsbad Village Drive

Register online (walk-ins accepted)

Holiday meals bring joy, but they can also lead to unnecessary food waste. When food goes to waste, all of the resources that go into producing it also go to waste, including water, energy, labor and land. In addition, as food waste decomposes in landfills, it releases methane, a powerful greenhouse gas that traps over 28 times more heat in the atmosphere than carbon dioxide.

In Carlsbad, food waste doesn’t have to end up in a landfill, thanks to the organics recycling program. Food scraps collected in your green organics cart are turned into compost and mulch, which you can use in your garden. Here’s how you can help reduce food waste this season even before it reaches your green cart:

Shop smarter

1. Plan ahead: Make a detailed grocery list, check your pantry and confirm your guest count to avoid overbuying.
2. Coordinate dishes: If guests are bringing food, work together to ensure a variety of dishes and the right portions for your gathering.
3. Shop early: Shopping ahead helps you avoid the rush and stick to your list, preventing last-minute impulse buys.

Manage leftovers

1. Save scraps: Freeze vegetable peelings and meat trimmings to use later in soups, broths or stews.
2. Share the love: Have reusable containers on hand for guests to take leftovers home or freeze extras for quick meals later.
3. Organics recycling: Place any remaining food scraps in your green organics recycling cart. This ensures they’re turned into compost, which is then made available year-round for Carlsbad residents to pick up at the Palomar Transfer Station.

Self-service compost and mulch pickup

Monday through Saturday

8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Palomar Transfer Station

5960 El Camino Real

Holiday meals often mean more time in the kitchen and, for some, frying or roasting with oils and fats. Improper disposal of cooking oil can lead to clogged pipes and expensive plumbing repairs. Instead of pouring it down the drain, try these easy and responsible ways to handle used cooking oil and grease this holiday season: 

• Store and reuse it: If the oil is still clean, let it cool, then strain it through a fine mesh or cheesecloth to remove food particles. Store it in a sealed container in a cool, dark place to use for frying or cooking future meals. Reusing oil reduces waste and saves resources. 
• Recycle it: Carlsbad residents can recycle used cooking oil easily with a Republic Services Used Oil Recovery Kit. Just call Republic Services at 760-332-6464 to request a one-gallon kit with a secure, watertight lid. Recycling turns used oil into biofuels and other sustainable products. 
• Compost it (in small amounts): Small quantities of plant-based oils, like olive or coconut oil, can be added to outdoor compost piles. Mix them well with dry materials like leaves or cardboard to prevent clumping. Avoid large amounts or animal fats, which can attract pests and slow decomposition. 
• Dispose safely if needed: If reusing or recycling isn’t an option, pour the cooled oil into a sturdy, sealed container like an empty milk carton or yogurt tub. However, landfill disposal should be minimized, as oils can take a long time to break down and may contribute to methane emissions.  

The cooler months bring more than just festive cheer—they’re also an ideal time to make small changes that can reduce waste, protect our ocean and save money.

Rainy season prep

Even if it hasn’t rained yet, preparing now can make a big difference when the next storm hits. Rain washes everything on streets and driveways into our storm drains and, eventually, into our lagoons and the ocean.

Here are a few easy ways you can help prevent pollution from reaching our waterways:

• Sweep up leaves, dirt and debris from sidewalks and driveways to avoid clogs and pollution.
• Close the lids to your trash and recycling cart lids to keep materials from spilling into the street.
• Always pick up pet waste and throw it away in your gray landfill cart.
• Adjust your irrigation system for cooler weather to avoid overwatering and keep water from running off into storm drains.
• Add compost or mulch to your garden to improve soil health, retain moisture and reduce the need for frequent watering.

Energy-saving ideas for winter

Winter also brings chilly nights, but keeping warm doesn’t have to come with a high energy bill. Stay cozy while saving energy with these tips:

• Set your thermostat to 68°F while you’re home and lower it when you’re away or sleeping. Every degree lower can save about 1% on heating costs.
• Check and replace air filters to help your heater run more efficiently.
• Seal drafts with weatherstripping or caulk. Drafty doors and windows let in cold air, which makes your heater work harder.
• Open curtains during the day to let sunlight warm your home, and close them at night to keep the heat in.
• Use a programmable thermostat to set heating schedules that match your daily routine.

These small steps can add up, helping reduce energy use and keeping your home comfortable all season long.

Find more no-cost and low-cost energy saving ideas on the city’s website. We also have some ideas for larger upgrades if you’re in the market for new appliances, insulation or energy-efficient windows. These investments can lower your energy use and help you qualify for rebates or tax credits.

Carlsbad’s weather makes it easy to enjoy the outdoors year-round, and the cooler fall temperatures are ideal for exploring the city’s scenic trails. Whether you’re hosting family and friends for the holidays or just looking to get outside, Carlsbad’s open spaces provide a wonderful backdrop for connecting with nature and each other.

Here are some local favorite trails to explore:

• Lake Calavera Preserve: Admire the extinct volcano and diverse plant life.
• Batiquitos Lagoon: Enjoy a peaceful stroll with coastal views and signs about local wildlife.
• Hosp Grove Trails: Wander through eucalyptus trees while taking in views of the nearby Buena Vista Lagoon.

Spending time outdoors is a refreshing way to slow down, appreciate Carlsbad’s natural beauty and create lasting memories during the holiday season.

Carlsbad is home to 67 miles of trails. If you’re looking for something new, you can find more options using the GoHike map on the city’s website.

When the holidays are over, recycle your tree with the City of Carlsbad’s convenient options from Dec. 26, 2024, to Jan. 12, 2025.

Prepare your tree

• Remove all stands, ornaments, lights and tinsel.
• Cut trees over 6 feet in half.
• Flocked or fire-retardant trees are not accepted.

Two easy ways to recycle

1. Curbside – Place your tree next to your green organics cart on your regular collection day.
2. Drop-off – Bring your tree to any of these locations for easy recycling: 

• Calavera Park: 2997 Glasgow Drive
• Fire Station 1: 1275 Carlsbad Village Drive
• Palomar Transfer Station: 5960 El Camino Real
• Poinsettia Park: 6600 Hidden Valley Road
• Stagecoach Park: 3420 Camino de los Coches