In This Issue: Why Recycle, Top Recycling Contaminants, Recycle Right at the End of the School Year, Properly Dispose of Batteries,
Why Recycle?
Recycling reduces waste, keeps recyclable materials out of landfills, and helps protect the environment. It also saves energy and valuable natural resources and creates jobs. When a community recycles right, it improves quality of life and supports the local economy.
You can do your part to Recycle Right. Unsure of what goes where? Visit SanJoseRecycles.org for a complete recycling guide and more.
So You Think You Can Recycle Right?
Test your Recycle Right knowledge with the short quiz below. To see the correct answer, scroll to the bottom of this newsletter.
In fall 2022, City of San José Environmental Services conducted a curbside study to learn what residents are actually putting in their recycling carts. Overall, more than half (56.8%) of items that were collected for recycling do not belongin the recycling. The number one contaminant category is "Other Materials," which accounted for 22.5% of all contaminants. See the graphic for some common "Other Materials" that were found in our study.
Be sure to use the search feature on SanJoseRecycles.org, also available in Spanish and Vietnamese, to properly sort recyclables and non-recyclables so you can be confident you're placing them in the correct containers. Together, we can create a cleaner, more sustainable City for future generations to enjoy and thrive in.
School's Out!
With the school year ending, how do we properly dispose of school supplies before taking off for summer break? See the graphic below for some common school items. Don't see the confusing item you're looking for? Visit SanJoseRecycles.org to Recycle Right.
Properly Dispose of Batteries
Batteries can be dangerous if not properly disposed. Never place batteries or battery-embedded products in your garbage or recycling containers. Doing so can cause an explosion or fire inside a collection truck or at Materials Recovery Facilities. To protect our local garbage and recycling drivers and facility workers, visit hhw.org or call (408) 299-7300 to schedule a free appointmentor find drop-off locations to dispose of Household Hazardous Waste (HHW).
Visit our websiteto learn how to responsibly dispose of different types of batteries
Quiz Results
In San José, how do we dispose of food scraps? The correct answer is: Place in the garbage. All the garbage collected in San José is sent to a mixed waste materials recovery facility to recover organic materials for composting, which also keeps us in compliance with SB 1383. Residents simply need to place food and food-soiled items in the garbage (and not in yard trimmings carts or piles) and keep organic material out of recycling containers. Residents are welcome to create their own composting bins. Learn more about what happens to your food scraps, or pick up some tips and tricks about how to reduce food waste.
