Curbside Courier: Spring 2006

New rules for disposal of toxic technology

As of February 9, 2006, new state hazardous waste rules require special handling for consumer electronics, batteries, fluorescent bulbs and mercury-containing products, called Universal Wastes. It is now against the law to dispose of these items in your garbage or recycling cart. Your carts will not be collected if these items are found inside.

Universal Wastes are hazardous wastes that are generated by a wide variety of people. When they are crushed in landfills, the lead, mercury, copper and other metals contained in these items can leach out and pollute groundwater, streams and wildlife.

Most cities in Santa Clara County contract with the County to operate collection programs for paints, solvents, batteries and other hazardous materials commonly found in homes. The County has partnerships with local stores to take back batteries and fluorescent bulbs.

Most electronic items can be recycled through the Recycling Hotline at 800-533-8414 or (408) 924-5453. Larger electronics can also be recycled through the City’s Large Item Collection program. Also, there are 42 private companies that collect electronic waste, funded partially by State fees.

Refer to the chart below for recycling options for each type of Universal Waste.

Visit the Department of Toxic Substances Control's website to read the regulation, get fact sheets, best management practices, and more.

Garbage Bills to Look Different

Your garbage service bill will soon have a new look and be even easier to read. The City of San José is modernizing its utility billing system so that you'll be able to access your account information via the Internet, make online payments, and take advantage of other self-service features. Customer service representatives will be able to view the most up-to-date information on your account whenever you call. More information about the new billing system will be sent to you this spring. Look for the new bill format this summer.

Ask Kirby, the Curbside Recycler

Q. Whatever happened to all those yellow recycling bins after we got our recycling carts?

A. Thousands of these yellow bins were donated to non-profit organizations for re-use. One great example is EHC LifeBuilders, Santa Clara County’s largest provider of shelter, housing programs and supportive services to homeless individuals, families and youth. Their “Small Mall” program collects, organizes and distributes donated supplies for their shelters and transitional housing clients. In 2002, during the changeover to single-stream recycling, the City donated over 1,300 yellow recycling bins to this program. At their “Small Mall” facility, shelf after shelf of yellow bins now serve a new purpose, holding such items as dishes, pots and pans, bedding, small appliances, baby supplies and toiletries ready for easy distribution.

Curbside Courier Newsletter Archive

Updated 11/17/06