The City of Santa Cruz is now accepting applications for its 2023 Master Recycler Volunteer Training Program. Over five Tuesday evening and two Saturday morning sessions from Feb. 7 to March 14 participants will train to become “Master Recycler Volunteers” in areas related to waste reduction and recycling. The interactive classes are taught by City of Santa Cruz Resource Recovery staff and local discard management professionals.
Class topics include waste prevention, food scrap collection, recycling processes and markets, Zero Waste concepts, Extended Producer Responsibility, household hazardous waste, repairing and repurposing items, and green consumer tips. Two 
Saturday field trips will provide a behind-the-scenes look at sorted and baled recyclable material, large and small scale composting systems, and electronic waste management. sorted and baled recyclable material, large and small scale composting systems, and electronic waste management.
Course graduates will emerge with agreement to put their new skills into practice through a minimum of 20 hours of community service. They will be invited to staff education and outreach tables and discard stations at special events, support Earth Day and serve as community champions with the knowledge and confidence to educate and empower friends, neighbors, schools, businesses, local groups, and others to waste less, rethink their habits and “recycle right.”
Advanced application and confirmation of registration is required. Applications will be accepted until 4 p.m. on Thursday, January 26. Space is limited; priority consideration will be given to people who reside or work within the City of Santa Cruz. Participants must be at least 18 years of age.
Applications are available at www.cityofsantacruz.com/recycleright. Questions may be addressed to Waste Reduction Manager Leslie O’Malley at lomalley@cityofsantacruz.com
