Welcome to the County of Santa Cruz, Department of Public
Works Recycling and Trash Blog called “Trash Talk.” We will highlight weekly
information regarding current laws related to recycling, zero waste principals
and tips on how to move Santa Cruz to a zero waste future. Included will be general updates on our
department and facilities, resource recovery and tips on how to help us divert
materials away from entering the landfill.
So, what are we talking about? What is zero waste?
Zero waste is a goal that is
ethical, economical, efficient and visionary to guide people in changing their
lifestyles and practices to emulate sustainable natural cycles, where all
discarded materials are designed to become resources for others to use; to
eliminate all discharges to land, water or air that are a threat to planetary,
human, animal or plant health.
The County of Santa Cruz has a long history of progressive
waste management policies, programs and facilities. The County adopted a Zero Waste plan in 2015:
Along with the adopted Zero Waste Plan, the County is focusing
on current laws:
AB 1826- Mandatory Organics Recycling
And upcoming laws AB 1383- Short-Lived Climate Pollutants:
Organic Waste Methane Emissions Reduction
We will keep you up-to-date on these laws and their
regulations, trends, and introduce you to many interesting and creative
solutions to eliminate single use items from your life. Together we can achieve
our zero waste goals for Santa Cruz County.
