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Creating less waste doesn’t require a backyard. Across California, students are showing how composting can fit into even the smallest shared living spaces.

Through CalRecycle’s Student Social Media Ambassador Program (SSMAP), students share practical sustainability tips that make waste reduction easier and more accessible to all Californians.      

Malina Wong is a student focused on making composting accessible in apartment living. She’s using her voice to share simple ways to get started and reduce food waste at home, even in small or shared spaces.           

You can learn more from her video:

On Instagram at: ful.field

Access her full video here.

Malina’s beginner-friendly composting hacks for apartment living include:

  • Freeze your food scraps: Grab a reusable bag, label it, and store food scraps (like vegetable peels and fruit tops) in the freezer to prevent odors.     
  • Use your green bin or drop-off options: Once full, place frozen scraps into your curbside or campus green bin. No green bin? Check if local farmers’ markets or community gardens accept scraps.
  • Know your local resources: Not sure what’s available in your area? Check RecyclingReimaginedCA.com (under Curb Your Food Scraps) to find compost options near you.

Students like Malina show that even in small or shared spaces, simple routines can make sustainable living easy and effective.

Follow our Instagram (@CalRecycle) to learn from the outstanding SSMAP students and see just how easily you too can contribute to a greener California!