"Innovations" Case Studies

Government Facilities: A Model for Local Government Recycling and Waste Reduction

According to the statewide waste characterization study by the California Integrated Waste Management Board (CIWMB), public administration facilities disposed of approximately 0.4 tons per employee in 1999. That amounted to 278,112 tons per year, representing approximately 1.6 percent of the commercial waste stream. The two key components in addressing waste reduction at government facilities include:

• Implementing waste prevention, recycling, and composting programs for materials generated at government facilities.
• Purchasing environmentally preferable products, including those that contain recycled content.

Table of Contents

• Understanding the Rules for Recycling
• Assisting Governmental Agencies
• Developing a Waste Reduction Plan
• Select Materials and Collection Methods
• Developing a Buy Recycled Program and Building Green
• Case Studies
• Local Government Challenges, Opportunities, and Tips
• For More Information

Summary of this publication | Download this publication

Credits and Disclaimer

Gary Liss & Associates and Rick Best of Californians Against Waste Foundation prepared this study pursuant to contract IWM-C8028 ($198,633, included other services) with the University of California at Santa Cruz for a series of 24 studies and summaries. The Board would like to acknowledge the following individuals who assisted in the preparation of this document:

• Peter Schultze-Allen, Ecology Center
• Steven J. Harris, Defense Logistics Information Service
• Wayne Stalie, Corocoran State Prison
• Aimee Vincent, Presidio Trust

The statements and conclusions in this summary are those of the contractor and not necessarily those of the California Integrated Waste Management Board, its employees, or the State of California. In addition, the data in this report was provided by local sources but not independently verified. The State and its contractors make no warranty, express or implied, and assume no liability for the information contained in this text. Any mention of commercial products, companies, or processes shall not be construed as an endorsement of such products or processes.

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Last updated: October 26, 2007