When we’re not mindful of the waste generated in our daily lives, more trash can end up in landfills. And while it may feel out of sight and out of mind, that waste can come back to our communities by polluting our air, water, and land, wasting our natural resources, and contributing to a warming planet.

California Students Are Inspiring a Waste-Reduction Mindset

CalRecycle partnered with college students like Yenifer Herrera through the Student Social Media Ambassador Program (SSMAP) to share practical sustainability tips, help reduce landfill waste, and encourage a waste-reduction mindset across California.

Yenifer is a freshman college student and food lover. From the age of 15, Yenifer has been interested in nature and environmentalism. Since joining SSMAP, she has used her social media platform to encourage Californians to waste less by breaking down the process and benefits of composting and recycling in a way that feels simple and actionable.

Simple Ways to Waste Less in California

Here are a few beginner-friendly tips from Yenifer to help you unlock a more sustainable mindset:

Compost Food Scraps

• Compost your food scraps in a curbside green bin. (Local requirements vary, check your local program for what is allowed.)
• Store food scraps in the freezer until pickup day to help reduce pests and odor.
• Layer your green bin with wood chips, cardboard, or paper between food scrap layers to soak up moisture and reduce smell.

Recycle Bottles, Cans, and Other Materials

• Collect, sort, and redeem CRV-labeled containers (including wine and liquor bottles) for extra cash at a recycling site.
• Recycle non-CRV containers and other recyclable materials in your curbside blue bin.

Reuse Everyday Items

• Choose to use second-hand items, reusable tote bags, and repurposed containers to help cut down on waste and save a little money along the way.

Small Actions Can Make a Difference

Yenifer shows us that simple sustainable living practices can create a big impact on the environment we live in.

Follow @CalRecycle across social media channels to learn more from our trailblazing students and see how you can play a role in a greener California.

For more information about California’s recycling programs and services, visit CalRecycle.ca.gov. You can also explore helpful how-to guides and resources at iRecycleSmart.com.