Recycling, Solid Waste, and Pollution

Solid Waste

The state of California has a long history of Solid Waste Law. The Integrated Waste Management Act of 1989 (AB 939)mandated that there must be a "diversion of 50 percent of all solid waste by January 1, 2000 through source reduction, recycling, and composting activities" (History of California Solid Waste La, 1985-1989). To mee this law, Glendale Community College recycles a minimum of 50% of all solid waste by contract with Southland Disposal. Southland Disposal operates a Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) where recyclable materials are sorted and removed from our waste stream. You can download a printable brochure that describes their services here: Southland Disposal Brochure.

The City of Glendale has a Zero Waste Glendale initiative, with a goal to achieve 75% waste diversion by the year 2020 and 90% by 2030. Learn how you can help reach this goal by visiting the website.

Recycling

It is illegal in California to put in the trash any of the following: batteries, fluorescent lights, televisions, computers, and all electronic items with a circuit board (VCRs, printers, stereos, radios, microwaves, telephones). Drop off these materials for free at:

Glendale Recycling Center
540 W. Chevy Chase Dr.
Glendale, CA 91204
818-552-2870
MAP TO RECYCLING CENTER

Hazardous Waste

It is illegal to dispose of hazardous wastes in the garbage/recycling, down drains, or onto the ground. So follow the directions on Glendale's Hazardous Waste page to properly dispose of chemicals, oil, medications, paint, cleaners, et cetera.

You can also pick up a sharps container from the Environmental Management Center (780 Flower Street). Return it when full and get a new container.

Air Quality

Air quality testing has been performed on many buildings, including the administration building and San Rafael building. Air quality was found to meet state and federal standards.