Recycling is a key element in the improvement and preservation of Earth. The act not only protects natural resources, but also cuts global warming pollution and saves water and energy. In honor of Earth Day, we spent time with Desi Reno, Integrated Waste Manager of San Joaquin County Public Works, to learn more about ways the county is working to keep our neighborhoods clean.
Residents are urged to participate in curbside recycling, in conjunction with their standard waste collection system. The system is designed to reduce trash sent to landfills, but it takes active participants to make a difference; by properly separating and disposing materials.
“Because residents are willing to fund a curbside recycling program, we know there is high public sentiment to do the right, green, thing,” says Reno, “Since 1989, curbside programs focus on sorting after collection, this is why people see more “single stream” programs… they help to reduce the resident’s cost.”
As Reno explains, recycling has evolved tremendously in our county. “Our focus is now dedicated to the highest form of recycling- waste diversion- the prevention and reduction of generated waste through source reduction.”
With the California Product Stewardship Council, San Joaquin County has successfully reduced the amount of paint and motor oil used. As a result, disposal costs have saved the county over 500 thousand dollars in just the past three years. San Joaquin has also developed an industry standard, allowing the state to sell recycled paint. “This effort alone is anticipated to change the way consumers use paint, reducing our carbon footprint,” says Reno.