Schools
Our Zero Waste Schools Program has a commitment to work with our local school communities to strive towards Zero Waste. We have established strong partnerships with East Side Union High School District, Metropolitan Education District, Fremont Unified High School District, and Los Gatos Saratoga High School District to align our mission and sustainable values with theirs. With seven years of experience operating recycling and waste collection efforts for the East Side Union High School District (ESUHSD), SJCC+CS has a strong practical understanding of what it requires to provide high-quality service within a school education environment.
With the knowledge gained from working with our community school districts, SJCC+CS is committed to supporting educational institutions by providing eco-friendly solutions. Collecting used furniture and finding avenues to donate, reuse, repurpose, and recycle is our way of giving back to Bay Area communities.
Waste Collection for School Campuses
Our waste collection services are designed to keep school campuses clean, safe, and environmentally responsible. We provide reliable, scheduled pick-ups for a variety of waste streams, ensuring proper disposal or recycling in line with regulatory standards. Our purpose is to divert as much as possible from landfills and make schools more sustainable.
- Paper/Cardboard: Collection of paper products and cardboard for recycling, reducing landfill contributions and supporting circular economy practices.
- Landscape & Green Waste: Removal of yard trimmings, leaves, and other organic green waste to be composted or otherwise repurposed.
- Mixed Recyclables & Beverage Container Collection: Collects plastics, metals, glass, and other recyclables, as well as beverage containers, to maximize diversion from landfills.
- Bulky & Hazardous Waste Pick-Up: Safe handling and removal of large or hazardous items like furniture, electronics, or chemicals, following all health and safety regulations.
- Landfill: For non-recyclable and non-compostable items, we provide secure and compliant landfill disposal.
SB1383 Compliance
Our SB1383 compliance services help schools meet California’s short-lived climate pollutant regulations by reducing organic waste and promoting sustainable food management practices.
- Food Waste Collection: We provide scheduled collection of all food and organic waste, including pre-consumer and post-consumer scraps, to ensure proper diversion from landfills. This not only helps schools stay compliant with SB1383 requirements but also reduces greenhouse gas emissions from decomposing organic matter.
- Edible Food Recovery Pick-Up: Surplus food that is still safe for consumption is collected and redirected to local food banks and community organizations. This reduces waste while supporting food-insecure populations and reinforcing the school’s commitment to social and environmental responsibility.
- Comprehensive Support for Compliance: In addition to collection services, we assist schools with documentation, reporting, and program guidance to demonstrate adherence to SB1383 regulations, making compliance straightforward and manageable.
E-waste Collection
We offer convenient, cost-free collection of electronic waste to prevent harmful materials from entering landfills.
- At No Cost, We Can Schedule a Pick-Up at Any of Your Schools: Flexible scheduling ensures minimal disruption to school operations.
- E-Waste Drives and Community Flyering: Educational campaigns combined with collection events to promote responsible e-waste disposal.
Environmental Education and Outreach
Education is key to building long-term sustainability habits among students and staff. Our programs are hands-on and designed to engage all grade levels.
- In-Classroom Interactive Presentations for All Grades: Age-appropriate lessons on recycling, composting, and waste reduction that encourage active student participation.
- Zero Waste Tabling Events: Interactive events that raise awareness on campus about waste diversion, sustainable practices, and the environmental impact of daily choices.
- Ongoing Student and Staff Training: Continuous support and education for students and staff to maintain consistent zero waste practices across campuses.
- Waste Auditing, Characterization, Reporting, and Zero Waste Consultation: Regular audits to analyze waste streams, provide actionable insights, and recommend strategies for improved diversion.
- Tracking of Data via a Data Platform: Real-time tracking of waste generation and diversion metrics to inform decision-making and measure progress.
- Quarterly Reports that Include Waste Stream Weights and Diversion Rates: Summarized, actionable reports that show trends and progress toward zero waste goals to spread awareness to students and staff.
Landscaping
Our landscaping services enhance the aesthetics, safety, and sustainability of school grounds.
- Tree Pruning: Professional trimming to maintain tree health, prevent hazards, and support campus beautification.
- Yard Maintenance: Routine lawn care, planting, and general upkeep to create safe, attractive, and functional outdoor spaces.
If you are interested in our Zero Waste School services, please email zwcampuses@sjcccs.org.
Evergreen Valley High School Waste Audit
James Lick High School Waste Audit
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