What to do with all these Paper Grocery Bags in San Diego?

It’s a new year and plastic bags are out in California. As of January 1, Senate Bill (SB) 1053 closes a loophole from the 2014 bag ban that allowed thicker, reusable or recyclable plastic bags to be sold at checkout. Supermarkets, drugstores, convenience stores, and other shops can sell paper bags instead.
This plastic bag ban and the new wave of paper bags in our homes is a great opportunity to rethink how we handle food scraps.

Make the Most of your Paper Bag Stash
1. Use Paper Bags While Prepping Food Scraps Instead of tossing every peel, core, or coffee grind into the garbage, use a paper bag to collect scraps as you go. Once you’re done, simply toss the whole bag into your curbside organics bin. This makes meal prep cleaner and keeps your bin from getting messy.
If you can’t immediately make it out to your curbside organics bin, you can put the paper bag in the fridge or freezer to reduce any odors and toss it later.
2. Double Up for Juicy Scraps For foods that tend to leak or get soggy (like citrus peels or melon rinds) double-bag with paper bags. This keeps your kitchen tidy, prevents odors and flies, and still ensures your food scraps will get turned into mulch and compost.
3. Experiment With Different Brands Not all paper bags are created equal. Some are sturdier, some are smaller. Use the ones that fit the type of scraps you’re collecting. Put heavier scraps in thick, large bags and lighter ones in smaller or thinner bags.

Why Composting Matters
When food scraps end up in the landfill, they don’t break down the way we might think. Without oxygen, they release methane, a powerful greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change.

Under California’s organic waste recycling law (SB 1383), food scraps, yard waste, and other organic material must be placed in your curbside green bin to be recycled, composted or otherwise not end up in the trash. However, organic waste still makes up about 40% of what San Diego County residents send to landfills. Redirecting that waste into the green bin not only reduces methane emissions but also creates valuable compost used to enrich soils throughout the region, closing the loop on the food cycle!

Reduce, reuse, recycle.
While paper bags are a handy tool, don’t forget that bringing your own reusable bag is still the most sustainable option at checkout. But when life hands you a stack of paper bags, you can put them to work in your kitchen and make food scrap recycling easier, cleaner, and mess-free.
If you have more paper bags than you can use for food scraps, they can go in your curbside blue bin. Just be sure they are clean (not soiled with food or wet)!

Check out our informative social media video on this topic HERE.

New Plastic Bag Ban Spurs Creative Ways for San Diegans to Use Paper Grocery Bags for Curbside Composting

SAN DIEGO — A change in California’s plastic bag law is reshaping shopping habits and creating new opportunities for composting in San Diego households. 

As of Jan. 1, Senate Bill 1053 , prohibits the sale of plastic bags. Retailers across California, including grocery stores, drugstores and convenience stores, must replace plastic bags with paper alternatives. 

The shift has led many residents to bring home more paper grocery bags, a change that  could support the state’s composting goals if the bags are reused. 

Making the Most of Paper Grocery Bags at Home 

Paper bags can be a simple, effective tool for collecting food scraps before they go into the curbside green bin. During meal prep, food scraps like peels, cores, coffee grounds, napkins and paper towels can be collected directly into a paper bag instead of the trash. When finished, the entire bag can be placed into the curbside organics bin, helping keep kitchen counters clean and green bins “ick” and mess free.  Double up the paper bags to help absorb any moisture and keep the bag sturdy on the bottom. 

If residents aren’t able to take scraps outside right away, paper bags can be stored temporarily in the refrigerator or freezer to minimize odors before disposal. 

Why Composting Food Scraps Matters 

When food waste is sent to the landfill, it breaks down without oxygen and releases methane, a potent greenhouse gas that contributes significantly to climate change. 

California’s organic waste recycling law, SB 1383, requires residents to place food scraps, yard trimmings, and other organic materials into their curbside green bins so they can be composted or otherwise diverted from landfills. Despite this, organic waste still accounts for roughly 40% of what San Diego County residents send to landfills. 

“Tossing food scraps into the green bin instead of the trash is one of the simplest ways we can help the planet,” says Steve Weihe, Recycling Specialist with the County of San Diego. “With paper bags now replacing plastic at grocery and retail stores, starting to recycle your food scraps is easier than ever. Just double-bag your scraps in paper to keep things clean and hassle-free—it’s simple, effective, and helps reduce mess. Once done, simply toss the entire paper bag in the green bin.”  

Placing your food scraps and soiled paper in the green bin  extends the life of our landfills, reduces harmful methane emissions and creates nutrient-rich compost that is used to improve soils throughout the region, helping close the loop on the food cycle. 

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle 

While paper bags are a helpful tool, bringing reusable bags to the store remains the most sustainable option. Still, when households find themselves with a surplus of paper grocery bags, reusing them for food scrap collection is an easy way to support local composting efforts. 

Any extra paper bags that are clean and dry (not wet or soiled with food) can also be recycled in the curbside blue bin. 

By rethinking how everyday items like paper grocery bags are used, San Diegans can take the mess out of food scrap recycling, reduce waste sent to landfills, and take another step toward a cleaner, more sustainable region. 

About I Love A Clean San Diego  

I Love A Clean San Diego is an environmental nonprofit that has supported residents and businesses of San Diego County through youth and adult education and local action through impactful volunteer events and workshops since 1954. As San Diego’s most influential advocate for sustainability, I Love A Clean San Diego’s programs are an environmental catalyst, awakening passion and inspiring action to empower everyone to be leaders in conservation and waste-free living. Our community is passion in action to maintain and improve the health of the home we love. For more information or to volunteer , visit cleansd.org  or call (619) 291-0103.  

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San Diego Residents Encouraged to Recycle Christmas Trees and Reduce Holiday Waste

County of San Diego and I Love A Clean San Diego Offer Convenient Recycling Options for the 2025–2026 Holiday Season 

SAN DIEGO –

As the holiday season comes to an end, San Diego residents are encouraged to recycle their real Christmas trees and help reduce the amount of organic waste sent to landfills. Through Christmas tree recycling programs offered throughout the region, trees can be transformed into nutrient-rich compost or mulch, supporting healthy soils while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. 

When organic materials like Christmas trees decompose in landfills, they produce methane, a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change. Recycling trees keeps this material out of landfills and gives it a second life that benefits local communities and the environment.  

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, organic waste— including food scraps, yard waste, and Christmas trees — are the number one material sent to landfills, accounting for nearly two-thirds of the solid waste stream. 

Finding a tree recycling location in San Diego County: 

To make recycling easy and accessible, the County of San Diego, in partnership with I Love A Clean San Diego, offers a variety of curbside and drop-off recycling options throughout the region. Residents can find a complete list of 2025–2026 Christmas tree recycling locations, including curbside collection availability and drop-off sites, by visiting WasteFreeSD.org. Recycling options vary by location, and residents are encouraged to check the guide for details specific to their city or unincorporated area. 

Preparing your Christmas tree for recycling 

  • All decorations, including ornaments, lights, garland, nails, tree stands, and tree bags, must be removed.  
  • Flocked trees are only accepted in certain areas. Please check your local guidelines at wastefreesd.org. 
  • Tinsel must also be removed and placed in the trash, though residents are encouraged to avoid using it altogether due to its single-use plastic composition.  
  • In areas with curbside collection, trees taller than four feet should be cut in half, with pieces kept under four feet in length. 

For more information on Christmas tree recycling and other waste reduction resources, visit WasteFreeSD.org. 

About I Love A Clean San Diego  

I Love A Clean San Diego is an environmental nonprofit that has supported residents and businesses of San Diego County through youth and adult education and local action through impactful volunteer events and workshops since 1954. As San Diego’s most influential advocate for sustainability, I Love A Clean San Diego’s programs are an environmental catalyst, awakening passion and inspiring action to empower everyone to be leaders in conservation and waste-free living. Our community is passion in action to maintain and improve the health of the home we love. For more information orto volunteer , visit cleansd.org  or call (619) 291-0103. 

 

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The 2025/2026 Christmas Tree Recycling Guide for San Diego County

After the holidays, San Diego residents can help close the loop on seasonal waste by recycling their real Christmas trees instead of sending them to the landfill. When trees are mulched or composted, they’re transformed into nutrient-rich organic material that supports healthy soil and landscaping throughout the region. Recycling Christmas trees also helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions, since organic waste in landfills produces methane, a powerful contributor to climate change. In fact, according to the EPA, organic materials like food scraps, yard waste, and Christmas trees make up nearly two-thirds of what ends up in landfills. 

To make recycling easy, waste haulers offer convenient curbside pickup and drop-off options across the region. Residents can find a complete list of 2025–2026 Christmas tree recycling locations at WasteFreeSD.org. To ensure trees can be properly recycled, be sure to remove all decorations, lights, stands, and bags, avoid flocked trees and tinsel, cut trees taller than four feet if using curbside service, and recycle promptly after the holidays. Organic wreaths can be recycled too, while artificial trees should be reused or donated when possible.  

Follow these guidelines to make sure your tree can be properly recycled:

  • Remove all decorations, lights, stands, and bags 
  • Flocked trees and tinsel can’t be recycled 
  • If using curbside recycling, cut trees taller than four feet in half  
  • Recycle live trees and organic wreaths promptly after the holidays 
  • Artificial trees not accepted and should be reused or donated when possible 

Find Curbside Pickup Guidelines for North County, East County, South Bay, Central San Diego, and Unincorporated Residents below. 

Find Dropoff sites in the City of San Diego and County of San Diego below. 

Find Dropoff Site Google Maps Link Here.

Curbside Pickup Guidelines:

North County San Diego Pickup Guidelines:

To ensure your Christmas tree can be properly recycled, remove all decorations, lights, stands, and bags, note that flocked trees and tinsel aren’t accepted. Artificial trees are not accepted.

Community
Collection Dates
Instructions
Carlsbad
Year Round
Republic requires tree to be cut so it fits inside the green organics car with the lid closed for collection, or
can be set curbside starting 12/26/2025 through 1/14/2026 on your regular collection day.
Del Mar
Year Round
EDCO requires trees to be cut so it fits inside the green organics cart with the lid closed for collection.
Escondido
Year Round
EDCO requires trees to be cut so it fits inside the green organics cart with the lid closed for collection.
Encinitas
Year Round
EDCO requires trees to be cut so it fits inside the green organics cart with the lid closed for collection.
Oceanside
Year Round
Waste Management requires trees cut in half and placed in the organics cart with lid closed, or can be set
curbside between 12/26/25 – 1/16/26 on your regular collection day
Solana Beach
Year Round
EDCO requires trees to be cut so it fits inside the green organics cart with the lid closed for collection.
Poway
Year Round
EDCO requires trees to be cut so it fits inside the green organics cart with the lid closed for collection.
Ramona
Year Round
Requires trees to be cut so it fits inside the green organics cart with the lid closed for collection.
Vista
Year Round
EDCO requires trees to be cut so it fits inside the green organics cart with the lid closed for collection.
East County San Diego Pickup Guidelines:

To ensure your Christmas tree can be properly recycled, remove all decorations, lights, stands, and bags, note that flocked trees and tinsel aren’t accepted. Artificial trees are not accepted.

Community
Collection Dates
Instructions
El Cajon
Year Round
EDCO requires trees to be cut so it fits inside the green organics cart with the lid closed for collection.
La Mesa
Year Round
EDCO requires trees to be cut so it fits inside the green organics cart with the lid closed for collection.
Lemon Grove
Year Round
EDCO requires trees to be cut so it fits inside the green organics cart with the lid closed for collection.
Santee
Year Round
Requires trees to be cut so it fits inside the green organics cart with the lid closed for collection, or can be set
curbside 12/26/25 – 1/9/26 on your regular collection day
South Bay San Diego Pickup Guidelines

To ensure your Christmas tree can be properly recycled, remove all decorations, lights, stands, and bags, note that flocked trees and tinsel aren’t accepted. Artificial trees are not accepted.

Community
Collection Dates
Instructions
Chula Vista
Year Round
Requires trees to be cut so it fits inside the green organics cart with the lid closed for collection.
Imperial Beach
Year Round
EDCO requires trees to be cut so it fits inside the green organics cart with the lid closed for collection.
National City
Year Round
EDCO requires trees to be cut so it fits inside the green organics cart with the lid closed for collection.
Central San Diego Pickup Guidelines

To ensure your Christmas tree can be properly recycled, remove all decorations, lights, stands, and bags. Artificial trees are not accepted.

Community
Collection Dates
Instructions
Coronado
Year Round
EDCO Requires trees to be cut so it fits inside the green organics cart with the lid closed for collection.
City of San Diego
Year Round
Both natural AND flocked trees are accepted. Requires trees to be cut so it fits inside the green organics cart with the lid closed for collection.
Unincorporated San Diego Curbside Pickup Guidelines

Unincorporated San Diego County (including 4S Ranch, Bonsall, Borrego Springs, Fallbrook, Julian, Mount Laguna, Pala, Palomar Mountain, Pauma Valley, Ranchita, Santa Ysabel, Valley Center, Warner Springs, Alpine, Boulevard, Campo, Crest, Dehesa, Descanso, Dulzura, Guatay, Jacumba, Jamul, Lakeside, Pine Valley, Potrero, Rancho San Diego, Spring Valley):

  • Remove all lights, ornaments, tinsel and the tree stand
  • Cut tree in 4-foot lengths and trim off branches
  • Artificial and flocked trees are not recyclable and must be placed in trash
  • Drivers will not service trees left outside the container.
  • All tree portions must be INSIDE the correct container.

For all waste haulers, you can place your tree in your green cart with the lid closed for collection year-round.  

If your waste hauler is Waste Management:  Trees can be cut so they fit inside the green organics cart with the lid closed for collection, or can be set curbside 12/26/25 – 1/9/26. If you do not have green waste services, please contact Customer Service at (619) 596-5100 to schedule the pick-up of your Christmas tree for a nominal fee.

 

Drop Off Locations

Drop Off Locations - County of San Diego

Alphabetical List Below

Please note: All trees must be real and free of decorations, lights, stands, tinsel, flocking, and bags unless otherwise noted. Artificial trees are NOT accepted. Dates and hours vary by location.

Google Maps Link Here

Bonsall

Dates: December 26, 2025 – January 9, 2026
Location: River Village Northwest Parking Lot
5256 Mission Road, Bonsall, CA 92003

Carlsbad

Dates: December 26, 2025 – January 14, 2026
Locations:

  • Calavera Park, 2997 Glasgow Drive, Carlsbad, CA 92010

  • Poinsettia Park, 6600 Hidden Valley Road, Carlsbad, CA 92011

  • Stagecoach Park, 3420 Camino de los Coches, Carlsbad, CA 92009

  • Fire Station 1, 1275 Carlsbad Village Drive, Carlsbad, CA 92008

  • Palomar Transfer Station, 5960 El Camino Real, Carlsbad, CA 92008

Chula Vista (Residents Only)

Dates: Year-round
Location: Self-Service Center, Otay Landfill
1700 Maxwell Road, Chula Vista, CA 91911
Hours: Mon–Fri 7:00am–4:30pm | Sat 7:00am–3:00pm | Sun & Major Holidays: Closed
Drop-Off Notes: Free drop-off for Christmas trees from personal residences only. Trees must be free of ornaments, stands, flocking, and netting. Proof of residency required.

Coronado

Dates: December 26, 2025 – January 14, 2026
Locations:

  • Glorietta Bay Park (Boat Ramp Parking Lot), 1975 Strand Way

  • Cays Park (across from Fire Station), 99 Grand Caribe Isle

  • Public Works Yard (Second Street & A Avenue)

Del Mar

Dates: December 26, 2025 – January 14, 2026
Location: Del Mar Public Works
2240 Jimmy Durante Boulevard, Del Mar, CA 92014

El Cajon

Dates: December 26, 2025 – January 12, 2026
Locations:

  • Wells Park, 1153 E. Madison Avenue, El Cajon, CA 92021

  • Public Works Operations Yard, 1050 Vernon Way, El Cajon, CA 92020
    Drop-Off Notes: Drop-off locations accept Christmas trees only. Trees do not need to be cut down for recycling.

Escondido

Dates: December 26, 2025 – January 10, 2026
Locations:

  • Kit Carson Park (South Entrance), 3333 Bear Valley Parkway, Escondido, CA 92025

  • Jesmond Dene Park, 2401 N. Broadway, Escondido, CA 92026

Imperial Beach

Dates: December 26, 2025 – January 12, 2026
Locations:

  • Imperial Beach Public Works, 495 10th Street, Imperial Beach, CA 91932

  • Boys & Girls Club, 847 Encina Avenue, Imperial Beach, CA 91932
    Drop-Off Notes: Drop-off locations accept Christmas trees only. Trees do not need to be cut down for recycling.

La Mesa

Dates: December 26, 2025 – January 11, 2026
Location: EDCO Station
8184 Commercial Street, La Mesa, CA 91942
Hours: Mon–Fri 5:00am–2:30pm | Sat 7:00am–4:30pm | Sun 8:00am–4:30pm

Lemon Grove

Dates: December 26, 2025 – January 12, 2026
Location: Treganza Heritage Park
3200 Main Street, Lemon Grove, CA 91945

National City

Dates: December 26, 2025 – January 12, 2026
Location: Las Palmas Park (Pool Parking Lot)
1800 E. 22nd Street, National City, CA 91950

Oceanside

Dates: January 1 – January 31, 2026
Location: El Corazon Compost Facility
3210 Oceanside Boulevard, Oceanside, CA 92056
Hours: Mon–Fri 7:30am–5:00pm | Sat 8:00am–4:00pm | Closed Sunday
Drop-Off Notes: Free drop-off for Christmas trees from personal residences only. Trees must be free of ornaments, stands, flocking, and netting. No artificial trees accepted.

Otay Mesa

Dates: January 1 – January 31, 2026
Location: Otay Mesa Compost Facility
434 Alta Road, San Diego, CA 92154
Hours: Mon–Fri 6:30am–4:00pm
Drop-Off Notes: Free drop-off for Christmas trees from personal residences only. Trees must be free of ornaments, stands, flocking, and netting. No artificial trees accepted.

Ramona

Dates & Times: December 27–28, 2025 & January 3–4, 2026 | 8:00am–3:00pm
Locations:

  • Ramona High School, 1401 Hanson Street, Ramona, CA 92065

  • Village Shopping Center, 23658 San Vicente Road, Ramona, CA 92065
    Drop-Off Notes: No flocked trees accepted.

San Marcos

Dates: December 26, 2025 – January 9, 2026
Location: Corky Smith Gymnasium
274 Pico Avenue, San Marcos, CA 92069

San Pasqual Valley

Dates: December 26, 2025 – January 15, 2026
Location: San Pasqual Valley Soils
16111 Old Milky Way, Escondido, CA 92027
Hours: Mon–Fri 6:30am–4:30pm | Sat 6:30am–3:00pm | Closed Sunday
Drop-Off Notes: No flocked or artificial trees accepted. Trees must be completely free of ornaments, tinsel, and stands.

Santee

Dates: December 26, 2025 – January 9, 2026
Locations:

  • Waste Management Recycling Center (Santee Residents Only), 925 O’Connor Street, El Cajon, CA 92020

    • Hours: Mon–Fri 7:00am–4:00pm | Sat 7:00am–12:00pmSantee Residents Only

  • Sycamore Landfill (Republic customers only), 8514 Mast Boulevard, Santee, CA 92071

    • Dates: January 5–31, 2026 | Mon–Fri 8:00am–3:00pm
      Drop-Off Notes: Proof of utility bill required for Sycamore Landfill drop-off.

Solana Beach

Dates: December 26, 2025 – January 16, 2026
Locations:

  • La Colonia County Park, 715 Valley Avenue, Solana Beach, CA 92075

  • Solana Beach City Hall, 635 S. Highway 101, Solana Beach, CA 92075

Valley Center

Dates: December 26, 2025 – January 5, 2026
Location: Valley Center Elementary School (Lower Parking Lot)
28751 Cole Grade Road, Valley Center, CA 92082

Vista

Dates: December 26, 2025 – January 9, 2026
Locations:

  • Public Lot at Vale Terrace Drive & Williamston, 1000 Vale Terrace Drive, Vista, CA 92084

  • S. Melrose Drive & Shadowridge Drive Parking Lot, Vista, CA 92081

Drop Off Locations - City of San Diego

The annual Christmas Tree Recycling Program begins the day after Christmas, Dec. 26, 2025 and runs through Jan. 16, 2026 and features 16 drop-off locations available to City of San Diego residents.

Drop-Off Notes (All Locations Below): Green and flocked trees ARE accepted. Remove all tree stands, lights, and decorations. Do not bag your Christmas tree. Artificial trees are NOT accepted.

Google Maps Link Here.

Carmel Valley

Location: Carmel Valley Recreation Center (Lower Parking Lot)
3777 Townsgate Drive, San Diego, CA 92130

City Heights / Colina Del Sol

Location: Colina Del Sol – South Parking Lot
Enter on 52nd Street & 52nd Place, San Diego, CA 92115

Clairemont / Linda Vista Area

Location: Cielo Drive at Woodman Street
San Diego, CA

Golden Hill

Location: Golden Hill Recreation Center
2600 Golf Course Drive, San Diego, CA 92102

Point Loma / Midway

Location: Memorial Recreation Center
2902 Marcy Avenue, San Diego, CA 92113

Mission Bay / Old Town

Location: SeaWorld Drive at Pacific Highway
San Diego, CA

Mountain View

Location: Ocean View Boulevard @ 40th Street (North Side)
San Diego, CA 92113

Ocean Beach

Location: Robb Field Recreation Center
2525 Bacon Street, San Diego, CA 92107

San Ysidro / South Bay

Location: Montgomery Waller Community Park (Lower Parking Lot)
Southeast corner of Palm Avenue & Beyer Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92154

Pacific Beach

Location: Kate Sessions Memorial Park
Corner of Mt. Soledad Road & Loring Street, San Diego, CA 92109

Rancho Bernardo

Location: Rancho Bernardo Recreation Center
18448 W. Bernardo Drive, San Diego, CA 92127

Rancho Peñasquitos

Location: Canyonside Recreation Center
12350 Black Mountain Road, San Diego, CA 92129

College Area

Location: Parking Lot 17 (off Alvarado Road)
San Diego, CA 92120

Scripps Ranch

Location: Scripps Ranch Recreation Center
11454 Blue Cypress Drive, San Diego, CA 92131

Tierrasanta

Location: Tierrasanta Community Park (Pool Parking Lot)
11220 Clairemont Mesa Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92124

University City / Clairemont Mesa

Location: Standley Community Park (Parking Lot)
3585 Governor Drive, San Diego, CA 92122

Where Does Old Outdoor Holiday Decor Go?

Twinkling lights and glowing yard inflatables spread cheer across San Diego County this time of year. But when those decorations burn out, deflate, or simply don’t make it to next season, the big question is: where should they go? 

If your first instinct is to toss them in the trash, hold that thought! Those tangled strings of lights and electric décor don’t belong in the landfill! 

Why You Shouldn’t Throw Them Away 

Electric holiday decorations are made from a mix of materials like metal wiring, plastic casing, bulbs, and sometimes small electronics. When sent to the landfill, these components can release harmful substances into the environment as they break down.  

What to Do with Burned-Out String Lights 

If your lights have lost their twinkle, you can recycle them, just not in your curbside bin! Many hardware stores and recycling centers accept string lights during the holiday season. To find a drop-off near you, visit WasteFreeSD.org, San Diego County’s one-stop recycling and disposal database. Just search “holiday lights,” enter your ZIP code, and you’ll see a list of nearby locations. 

 Deflated Yard Inflatables and Electric Decor 

Yard inflatables, illuminated reindeer, and other electric decor can also be tricky. These items typically contain mixed materials that can’t be recycled curbside. 

  • If they still work: Consider donating them to a local thrift store or community organization. 
  • If they’re broken beyond repair: Separate the fan and wiring from the plastic and check WasteFreeSD.org for e-waste collection sites that accept the fan and wiring! The inflatable plastic itself should go in the trash bin. 

Thoughtful Intentions for the Holiday Season 

San Diego’s curbside recycling and organics programs are helping our region divert waste daily, but it’s the small, thoughtful actions from residents like you that make the biggest difference! By keeping your old lights, cords, and electronic decorations out of the landfill, you’re helping to protect our environment and keep our holiday spirit waste-free. 

So as you unpack this year’s decorations, take a moment to give your old holiday favorites a responsible sendoff. Head to WasteFreeSD.org to find where they belong, because love for San Diego shines brightest when we care for our community and our planet! 

Tips for Composting your Holiday Food Waste

While many of us are about to sit down for a big meal, when the feast ends, the leftovers aren’t the only thing overflowing – so are the food scraps!” From turkey bones and potato peels to wilted herbs, not everything can be saved or eaten. While we always encourage getting creative with leftovers (like turkey sandwiches and soup!), some items just can’t be reused. That’s when your green bin becomes the real hero of the holidays. 

Why Composting Matters 

When food scraps end up in the landfill, they don’t break down the way we might think. Without oxygen, they release methane — a powerful greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change. Composting in your green bin, on the other hand, transforms those scraps into nutrient-rich compost and mulch right here in San Diego County! 

So when you compost your Thanksgiving leftovers, you’re giving back to the planet and closing the loop on the food cycle! 

Easy Ways to Compost Thanksgiving Leftovers 

Keeping your compost routine simple makes it easy to stick with year-round, especially during the holidays. Here are a few quick tips: 

  1. Double up paper bags for messy items. Use a paper bag (or two for strength) to collect turkey bones, meat scraps, or greasy napkins. When full, roll the bag closed and toss the whole thing in your green bin.  
  1.  Collect scraps as you cook. Keep a countertop container or paper bag nearby while prepping your meal. Potato peels, veggie trimmings, and eggshells can all go straight in your green bin. 
  1. Include food-soiled paper. Paper napkins, paper towels, and uncoated paper plates can all be composted. Just skip anything with plastic or wax coatings. 
  1. When in doubt, check WasteFreeSD.org. Unsure if something belongs in the green bin? The County of San Diego’s Recycling team can help! Email recycle@sdcounty.ca.gov 

 

Give Thanks — and Give Back 

This holiday season, as you savor every last bite and share time with loved ones, remember that even your food scraps can give back. 

Let’s keep San Diego clean, green, and grateful, one green bin at a time. 

 

Check out our info video about this here!

 

New ‘LOVE SD’ Campaign Inspires San Diegans to Take Action and Volunteer for a Cleaner, Greener Community

A countywide movement led by a new coalition rallies thousands of San Diegans to take action and pledge to ‘Recycle. Compost. Reduce Litter. Every Day.

SAN DIEGO – Sept. 17, 2025 – Local nonprofit I Love A Clean San Diego, in collaboration with Niagara Cares, launched its new eight-month “LOVE SD” campaign to create a sustainable future for our community. The two organizations, along with coalition partners, hosted a beach cleanup at Belmont Park and the surrounding Mission Beach community on Tuesday, Sept. 2 to mark the launch. The event brought together local residents and San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria, who joined volunteers to pick up trash and support the cause.

Over 120 volunteers came together, combing the beach and surrounding areas to pick up litter. Post-holiday cleanups bring neighbors together to restore our beach communities after the festivities, ensuring these shared spaces remain safe, welcoming, and beautiful for everyone to enjoy while protecting San Diego’s vibrant coastline and watershed. Approximately 120 pounds of litter was collected during the two-hour cleanup event.

The “LOVE SD” campaign was founded by Niagara Cares, the charitable division of Niagara Bottling, the family-run beverage company that has hydrated America since 1963. Niagara Cares brought together a coalition of other nonprofit partners to support the campaign, including Keep America Beautiful®, DoSomething.org and The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA). Together, the coalition aims to mobilize thousands of local volunteers from all generations to protect San Diego’s ecosystem.

“We’re excited to launch our ‘LOVE SD’ initiative in collaboration with our coalition partners who are also working to better and strengthen our community,” says Steve Morris, executive director, I Love A Clean San Diego. “Through this eight-month campaign, we want to remind San Diegans everywhere, from the coast to the desert to the mountains, to show love for our region through simple acts like recycling, composting, and picking up litter. No action is too small to keep trash off our streets and out of our ocean. San Diegans, regardless of age, cherish our natural environment and spaces, and this campaign will amplify that appreciation while inspiring action.”

Protecting San Diego’s natural beauty for generations to come

“LOVE SD” is a countywide movement that inspires San Diegans of all ages, local businesses, and organizations to care for their communities through environmental action, and to take a simple but powerful pledge through Earth Month in April 2026: Recycle. Compost. Reduce Litter. Every Day. The campaign also hopes to raise San Diego’s recycling rate. While the city’s 67% rate is higher than the state average (40%), 76% of what ends up in San Diego’s landfill is recyclable.

The campaign is designed to celebrate and protect San Diego’s vibrant environment, while inspiring locals to take daily actions to make a lasting difference in the health and beauty of their community. To educate and inspire action in our community, I Love A Clean San Diego and their coalition partners will host events across the county and large-scale cleanups. In addition to events, the eight-month program will be promoted through bus shelter ads, trolley wraps, radio advertisements, and digital ads.

“LOVE SD” is the expansion of the LOVE YOUR HAPPY PLACE Campaign, launched by Niagara Cares as part of their commitment to providing access, infrastructure, and education on recycling to local communities. The LOVE YOUR HAPPY PLACE Campaign launched last year with LOVE ATX in Austin, Texas, increasing local recycling rates at home from 22% to 32%. Upcoming cities for the LOVE YOUR HAPPY PLACE Campaign include Los Angeles, Oakland, and Denver, among others. Through this collaboration, Niagara Cares continues its mission to support initiatives that foster community wellness, innovation, and stewardship.

“LOVE SD” unites San Diegans around the shared goal of keeping our home clean, green, and thriving. “Love requires action, and true love for San Diego is shown in how we care for and protect our home,” says Morris. “From picking up litter to recycling, composting, and conserving resources, every action counts. Whether you’re a visitor, a newcomer, or a lifelong resident, we can all make a difference together.”

To get involved with the “LOVE SD” campaign and I Love A Clean San Diego, visit cleansd.org to explore events and activities across the region.

 

ABOUT THE “LOVE SD” COALITION PARTNERS

Niagara Cares is the heart of what we do and who we are at Niagara Bottling. For more than 60 years, we have been making a difference for our Team Members, consumers and communities through philanthropic giving, volunteering, water donations and disaster relief. As a family-owned business, we are committed to creating meaningful change for our communities through a spirit of giving back both big and small. For more information, visit niagarawater.com/niagara-cares. 

Niagara Bottling, LLC has been family owned and operated since 1963. Headquartered in Diamond Bar, Calif., Niagara operates bottling facilities throughout the U.S. and Mexico. As a leading U.S. beverage manufacturer, Niagara Bottling works closely with some of the largest retailers, grocers, club and convenience stores throughout the country. Niagara produces a variety of beverages including bottled water, sparkling, vitamin and flavored water, teas, sports drinks, ready-to-drink coffee, protein drinks and non-dairy milk products. For more information, visit www.niagarawater.com.

I Love A Clean San Diego is an environmental nonprofit that has supported residents and businesses of San Diego County through youth and adult education, and local action through impactful volunteer events and workshops since 1954. As San Diego’s most influential advocate for sustainability, I Love A Clean San Diego’s programs are an environmental catalyst, awakening passion and inspiring action to empower everyone to be leaders in conservation and waste-free living. Our community is passion in action to maintain and improve the health of the home we love. For more information, to volunteer or donate, visit cleansd.org or call (619) 291-0103.

Keep America Beautiful® is the nation’s leading community improvement nonprofit organization, inspires and educates people to take action every day to improve and beautify their community environment. Established in 1953, Keep America Beautiful® strives to End Littering, Improve Recycling, and Beautify America’s Communities. We believe everyone has a right to live in a clean, green, and beautiful community, and shares a responsibility to contribute to that vision. The organization is driven by the work and passion of 700 Keep America Beautiful® affiliates, millions of volunteers, and the collaborative support of corporate partners, social and civic service organizations, academia, municipalities, elected officials, and individuals. Join us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, and YouTube. Donate and take action at kab.org.

DoSomething.org is the leading digital hub for youth-centered impact and service with over 1 million active members and a 32-year legacy of activating over 8 million young people in every U.S. area code and 189 countries to take action. We fuel young people to change the world. We specialize in transforming civically curious young people into civically committed leaders. Our actions and programs educate and equip young people, ages 13 to 25, to build solutions to the issues that matter most to them. DoSomething has registered 425,000 young people to vote since 2018 and awarded nearly $2 million in scholarships to young people committed to doing good in their communities since 2010.

The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) is the leading not-for-profit organization dedicated to building strong, vibrant and resilient communities through the power of parks and recreation. With more than 60,000 members, NRPA advances this mission by investing in and championing the work of park and recreation professionals and advocates — the catalysts for positive change in service of equity, environmental resilience and health and well-being. For more information, visit nrpa.org. For digital access to NRPA’s flagship publication, Parks & Recreation, visit parksandrecreation.org.

 

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Hidden Hazards: A Story of Illegal Dumping in San Diego

It starts with a pile of trash on a quiet San Diego street. A neighbor drives by and at first glance, nothing unusual. But up close, it’s more concerning: old electronics, discarded batteries, used motor oil containers, and even a refrigerator lying on its side. The worst part? One item slowly sets a precedent for others, and before you know it the discarded items pile up. This isn’t just litter; it’s illegal dumping, a hidden threat to our environment, public health, and neighborhoods. 

More Than Just Trash 

Illegal dumping often involves hazardous or bulky waste that can leach toxins and pollute waterways. Batteries contain lithium, lead, and mercury. Electronic waste (e-waste) like computers, TVs, and phones carry heavy metals and flame retardants. Large appliances may contain refrigerants that are harmful to the environment. Even used motor oil, when poured into storm drains or on the ground, can devastate aquatic life. 

These hazards don’t just harm wildlife or ecosystems, they impact neighborhoods, reducing property values and costing the County of San Diego thousands in cleanup efforts. Stormwater can wash discarded items into rivers and oceans, spreading pollution far beyond the original dump site. 

The Scale of the Problem 

So far in 2025 (as of September 22, 2025), volunteers at I Love A Clean San Diego sponsored cleanups have collected approximately 400 pounds of illegally dumped waste, including batteries and e-waste, as well as appliances and oil containers. Illegal dumping is not an isolated issue; it’s a widespread problem that affects communities and natural spaces alike. 

Why People Dump 

Several factors contribute to illegal dumping: 

  • Inconvenience: Many residents don’t know where to take old electronics, batteries, or oil filters. 
  • Cost concerns: Some people assume disposal is expensive or complicated. 
  • Lack of awareness: People may not realize the environmental and health impacts of their actions. 

These barriers often make illegal dumping seem like the easiest option, even though it carries serious consequences. 

A Solution: WasteFreeSD.org 

WasteFreeSD.org is San Diego County’s one-stop resource for proper disposal of hazardous and bulky waste. Residents can: 

  • Find local drop-off centers and collection events to assist in the recycling of batteries, e-waste, appliances, and motor oil. 
  • Access step-by-step instructions for safe disposal. 
  • Take advantage of free or low-cost recycling programs. (wastefreesd.org) 

By using these resources, residents protect their neighborhoods, local wildlife, and waterways—while making illegal dumping less appealing. 

How Communities Can Help 

Addressing illegal dumping is a community effort: 

  • Report illegal dumping when you see it 
  • Participate in neighborhood or county cleanups. 
  • Support local initiatives to improve access to proper disposal and recycling.  

Check out our video about illegal dumping here.

Preliminary Results Show Over 55,000 Pounds of Litter & Debris Removed at San Diego’s Coastal Cleanup Day

SAN DIEGO — This morning, more than 3,000 San Diegans joined I Love A Clean San Diego (ILACSD) at 101 cleanup sites across the county for the 41st annual Coastal Cleanup Day.

Volunteers across the county restored, beautified, and protected the health of San Diego’s beloved beaches, canyons, rivers, and parks. As of 2:00 p.m., with 70% of sites reporting totals, an estimated 55,000 pounds of litter and debris were removed from San Diego communities and diverted from polluting local waterways and the Pacific Ocean. Final cleanup totals will be confirmed in the coming days.

Mayor Todd Gloria addressed more than 160 volunteers gathered at the kickoff site at Robb Field in Ocean Beach to thank them for their support and speak to the importance of keeping San Diego clean. The site also featured educational booths, waste-sorting stations, and more.

Volunteers logged what they were finding in an app that feeds into the largest marine database in the world. This information is then used to inform environmental priorities.

Cigarette butts, plastic bottle caps, and food wrappers are the most commonly found items. Other items found today include a bicylce wheel, a couch cushion, remnants of fireworks, and more.

ILACSD has been the official organizer of Coastal Cleanup Day in San Diego County since its inception in 1985. Over the last 41 years, more than 270,000 volunteers have removed over 5 million pounds of litter across San Diego County on Coastal Cleanup Day. The event is part of the global International Coastal Cleanup, which unites millions of volunteers across more than 150 countries each year to tackle plastic pollution and protect the health of our oceans.

Coastal Cleanup Day is supported locally by presenting sponsors Niagara Cares and Think Blue San Diego as well as our Gold Sponsors: Bank of America, The County of San Diego, Cox Communications, PNC Bank, Northrop Grumman, SDGE, Project Clean Water, and Wells Fargo.

Get Involved Year-Round

Coastal Cleanup Day may be over, but the work continues. I Love A Clean San Diego hosts community cleanups, zero waste workshops, clothing swaps, and other volunteer opportunities throughout the year. San Diegans can sign up for upcoming events at CleanSD.org to keep making a difference in their communities.

What is Coastal Cleanup Day?

Coastal Cleanup Day is more than just picking up litter, it’s about protecting the places we love. Each piece of trash removed is one less threat to our wildlife, waterways, and communities. With plastic pollution on track to outweigh fish in the ocean by 2050, this global day of action unites thousands of San Diegans with volunteers across the world to stop pollution at its source and safeguard our environment for future generations.

Since its founding in 1985, Coastal Cleanup Day has mobilized over 269,000 volunteers in San Diego County, removing more than 5 million pounds of litter and debris. The event is part of International Coastal Cleanup, organized globally by The Ocean Conservancy and statewide by the California Coastal Commission. Data collected from each site contributes to the world’s largest marine debris database.

About I Love A Clean San Diego

I Love A Clean San Diego (ILACSD) is an environmental nonprofit that has supported residents and businesses of San Diego County through youth and adult education, and local action through impactful volunteer events and workshops since 1954. As San Diego’s most influential advocate for sustainability, I Love A Clean San Diego’s programs are an environmental catalyst, awakening passion and inspiring action to empower everyone to be leaders in conservation and waste-free living. Our community is passion in action to maintain and improve the health of the home we love. For more information, to volunteer or donate, visit cleansd.org or call (619) 291-0103.

 

 

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What San Diego Students Can Teach Us About Waste Sorting

San Diego students are setting an impressive waste sorting example, one tray at a time! 

Schools across the unincorporated county are embracing recycling and sustainability in powerful ways by participating in our education programs in partnership with the County of San Diego. From lunchtime sorting stations to campus-wide green teams, students are learning and leading when it comes to proper waste disposal. 

Lunchtime Lessons That Last 

 For many students, the journey starts in the cafeteria, where they learn to not just toss everything into the nearest bin. Instead, they pause, consider what’s on their tray, and sort each item into the correct container: organic waste, recycling or landfill. This daily routine helps reinforce the importance of sorting correctly and builds lifelong habits. 

By making waste sorting a part of the school day, students develop a deeper understanding of what happens to their waste and how their actions impact the environment. They learn why a greasy plate doesn’t belong in the recycling bin or how an apple core or leftover bread crusts can be turned into nutrient-rich compost instead of landfill waste. 

Green Teams in Action 

In partnership with the County, we help schools take it a step further with student-led Green Teams: groups of dedicated students who serve as waste warriors on campus. These students model proper sorting behavior, help educate peers, and even assist with lunchtime waste sorting to improve their school’s overall sustainability. 

It’s more than just sorting, it’s empowerment. Green Team members become advocates for a cleaner community, influencing not just their classmates, but teachers, staff, and even their families at home. 

Why It Matters 

Teaching waste sorting in schools does more than keep campuses clean. It nurtures a new generation of environmentally conscious, engaged citizens who understand that small actions can create big change. By instilling these habits early, we’re helping shape a future where recycling and composting are second nature. 

And the results speak for themselves, less contamination, more compost, and smarter recycling practices that ripple out far beyond the schoolyard. 

How Can I get Involved at Home? 

If you ever find yourself staring at your bins at home, wondering where something goes, we can help! Visit www.wastefreesd.org to search for items and find out how to dispose of them properly. Let’s follow our students’ lead and make San Diego a cleaner, greener place for everyone.