Used Oil Education

On Zero Waste Saturdays, our monthly recycling drop-off events, we provide practical guidance on properly handling and recycling used oil and other automotive fluids. These events offer community members a safe and convenient way to dispose of materials that should never enter the regular trash or storm drain system.

Improperly disposed oil poses a serious threat to our environment. Oil that is dumped into storm drains, leaked onto the ground, or tossed into trash cans can contaminate soil, pollute groundwater, and flow into local creeks, bays, and oceans. Even small amounts of used motor oil can have significant environmental impacts. During our events, we help attendees understand these risks and explain how recycling used oil prevents pollution and protects wildlife, drinking water sources, and public health.

We also educate residents about California regulations. Used oil is classified as hazardous waste in the state and must be disposed of properly. It is illegal to dump used oil, and responsible recycling ensures compliance while keeping our communities safe.

In addition, we offer Dockwalker education, a program that trains boaters on how to prevent pollution while out on the water. Corpsmembers provide guidance on managing fuel, oil, trash, and sewage responsibly to protect waterways and marine life. Through one-on-one conversations at marinas and waterfront locations, we share best practices for preventing spills, properly storing and transporting used oil, and locating approved disposal sites. Participants also receive free boater kits that include helpful tools and educational materials to support clean boating practices.

Tabling Events

Beyond used oil education, we actively engage the community through workshops, presentations, and interactive activities focused on waste reduction, recycling, and sustainability. Our team frequently tables at schools, neighborhood events, and community gatherings, meeting students and residents where they are and providing clear, actionable information they can apply immediately.

At these events, we answer questions, demonstrate proper waste sorting, distribute educational materials, and create opportunities for hands-on learning. Whether we are speaking to elementary school students about composting or engaging residents in conversations about reducing contamination in recycling bins, our goal is always the same: to make sustainability practical, approachable, and achievable.

Through this outreach, Zero Waste Silicon Valley helps community members build the knowledge and confidence needed to make environmentally responsible choices in their daily lives. By bringing environmental education directly into the community and forming personal, meaningful connections, we are helping to cultivate long-term habits that support a greener, cleaner Bay Area for generations to come.

Our Service

Interested in bringing environmental education and outreach to your school, marina, neighborhood, or community event? Zero Waste Silicon Valley offers customized outreach services designed to meet your specific needs.

Our trained corpsmembers provide engaging, informative, and interactive programming focused on waste reduction, recycling, composting, used oil education, and pollution prevention. Whether you are looking for tabling support at a community event, classroom presentations, hands-on workshops, or Dockwalker outreach at your marina, we tailor our approach to fit your audience and goals.

We can assist with:

• Used oil and hazardous waste education
• Stormwater and pollution prevention outreach
• Waste sorting demonstrations and contamination reduction strategies
• Sustainability workshops and presentations
• Event tabling with educational materials and interactive activities

Our outreach services not only provide valuable environmental education, but also support workforce development by giving corpsmembers real-world experience in public engagement and environmental stewardship.

If you are interested in partnering with us to strengthen environmental awareness in your community, contact our team to learn more about how we can support your event or program. Together, we can build informed communities and move closer to achieving zero waste.