Recycling Advocates Program

About the Program

In order to have a successful recycling program at a company, the company has to have a recycling advocate — someone who will voluntarily espouse the virtues of the program, champion it, and shepherd its growth.

The SBWMA's Recycling Advocates program is a collaborative effort with the County of San Mateo to encourage dialog and provide recognition to people who are "gung-ho" about recycling and waste reduction. It is offered free of charge to anyone.

Material Diverted and Disposed
(Source: Allied Waste Quarterly Reports)

Program Goals

• Develop recycling team leaders.
• Extend the reach of recycling coordinators by encouraging participation among colleagues.
• Acknowledge the recycling efforts of these leaders and provide incentives for them to continue and expand their efforts.

Program Components

• Brown bag lunch forums to share recycling and waste reduction experiences.
• Electronic communications about upcoming events and information.
• Recognition luncheons and facility tours.

Helps Meet Recycling Mandate

Communities are getting closer to 50% diversion, but we need your help to get us there.

The SBWMA Recycling Advocates Program is a collaboration with the County of San Mateo and Allied Waste. All SBWMA communities have Commercial Recycling Coordinators who can work with management to determine the appropriate levels of garbage and recycling service and make adjustments as needed over time. The SBWMA can also provide additional recycling and waste reduction support by sharing exclusive events and in-depth assessments and recommendations.

What Are the Benefits of Participating in this Program?

Information Sharing

• Lunch and Learn topics are a great way to learn about how to recycle electronics, reuse opportunities, and how plastics get recycled.
• Participants receive the monthly Nexus electronic newsletter containing resource conservation and recycling information and events.
• Colleagues share some of their tricks of the trade and learn about methods people have used to increase recycling at their workplace.
• Behind-the-scenes tours of recycling facilities and model recycling communities.

Recognition

• Members are treated to a recognition luncheon featuring an environmentally-friendly meal.
• Local officials recognize the efforts of Recycling Advocates to help meet the State mandate.

Who are Recycling Advocates?

• Facilities managers and property managers who want to reduce their garbage bills through increased recycling and awareness.
• Apartment and condominium residents who are concerned about the impact our collective garbage has on our communities.
• Government staff members who are charged with setting a good example for their community to follow along the recycling and waste reduction efforts.

You Can Make A Difference

By participating in the Recycling Advocates Program, you can plan a significant role by raising awareness, which will ultimately pay off by conserving trees and water, cleaning the air by reducing pollutants, and reducing oil and gas use. Remember, "nothing is waste until it is wasted." Thanks for your participation.

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