Reducing and managing Waste

Waste reduction (or prevention) is the preferred approach to waste management because waste that never gets created doesn't have waste management costs.

An example of waste reduction is reducing unnecessary packaging from manufactured products and produce. If this excess packaging could be avoided, no one would have to be concerned with the cost and effort of collecting the excess packaging, separating it for recycling, breaking it down, transporting it to manufacturers, and then integrating the recycled materials back into the manufacturing process.

Waste reduction also helps conserve resources for future generations and contributes to a cleaner environment. Find out more about reducing waste through the following CalRecycle sites.

A site about doing more with less, with information for individuals, businesses, and governments on a wide range of waste reduction topics.

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), also known as product stewardship, is a strategy to place a shared responsibility for end-of-life product management on the producers, and all entities involved in the product chain, instead of the general public; while encouraging product design changes that minimize a negative impact on human health and the environment at every stage of the product's lifecycle.

Materials and assistance to help you set up and operate a successful waste reduction program in your business, office, or locality.

Disposable wood pallets, corrugated cardboard boxes, and plastic film comprise a significant amount of the waste generated by businesses in California. Reusable transport packaging replaces one-time (and limited-use) pallets and boxes with reusable totes, bins, and pallets. This site provides information regarding free workshops, educational materials, and other resources to help businesses make the switch and realize the benefits of reusables.

Every year Californians generate millions of tons of solid waste, much of which is packaging. Because landfill space is limited, retailers and manufacturers need to work together to reduce packaging waste.

Prevention is the most environmentally preferable means to reduce paper waste. Printing paper on both sides of the sheet is a classic example of paper waste prevention, as it can reduce the need for paper by up to 50 percent. Paper waste prevention reduces the environmental impacts associated with both paper manufacture (including the demands on our forest resources) and paper recycling.

Preventing waste conserves resources, prevents pollution, and saves money. It's just good business sense.

Activities at venue and events can generate a significant amount of waste in a short period of time. Cities and counties in California and State-owned or operated facilities also have waste reduction mandates that they must fulfill and maintain. Thus, they are increasingly looking to find ways to assist in reducing waste at the venues and events held at their facilities or located within their boundaries.

Information on how you can reduce waste at home, including junk mail, holiday waste, and yard/garden waste.

Schools can help communities reduce their waste, while saving money and teaching kids valuable lessons.