More than 8,000 tons of waste are estimated to be generated each year by the more than 65,000 students and 7,500 staff throughout Santa Barbara County public schools. By participating in a commingled recycling program, schools can divert upwards of 85 percent of their waste stream!

The County Public Works Department, Resource Recovery and Waste Management Division, offers technical assistance in implementing recycling programs at educational facilities. Please call (805) 882-3615 to schedule a meeting.

In addition, the County's recycling and waste prevention education program can provide classroom presentations for kindergarten through sixth grades. Call (805) 884-0459 to schedule a presentation in both the South County and the North County. Tours of Tajiguas Landfill and the Santa Barbara County Recycling and Transfer Station can be arranged by calling (805) 882-3615. Tours of the Health Sanitation Service's Recycling Facility (Materials Recovery Facility) are also available and can be arranged by calling (805) 922-2121.

Why Should We Start A New Recycling Program At Our School?

Now, more than ever, it is essential that the kids of Santa Barbara County learn the value of natural resources (including trash!) and the critical role that each of us plays in maintaining a sustainable Santa Barbara County that is free of pollution.

Over 80 percent of the waste at your school is recyclable…and, because of the more than 70,000 students in schools throughout the County, schools can make a significant contribution to help our community reduce the amount of waste going to the landfill.

What Are The Benefits Of A Recycling Program?

By making waste reduction and recycling a part of the learning environment, your school will be a role model for the community. Other schools and institutions will see you and your students making a large difference to the overall waste stream and quality of life in the County. In addition, the right recycling program can result in lowered costs and a valuable hands-on experience for students.

Where Can We Go For Help In Getting Started?

The County Public Works Department is ready and willing to help. Call us at (805) 882-3615 for free help in designing and implementing a successful recycling program for your school or school district.

Can We Save Money With A Recycling Program?

The Downey Unified School District in Los Angeles County saved over $200,000 by recycling and composting its waste over a period of four years. The majority of these savings were a result of reduced trips to the landfill, cutting the district’s annual trash bill of $100,000 in half. In just four years since the inception of its program, Downey Unified School District reduced the amount of trash it sent to the landfill by 65 percent.

Last updated: October 20, 2004

Copyright © 2000 Santa Barbara County Public Works Department
Resource Recovery and Waste Management Division