MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. -- The Camp Pendleton recycling program launched a new campaign Sept. 25, designed to raise community awareness about the importance of recycling.
The installation began recycling in the late ‘80's, and is now looking to reduce waste by 50 percent by 2010.
“The base is doing its part to be a positive part of the southern California area by being a leader in recycling,” said Charles Bradshaw, recycling program manager. “The installation is following Department of Defense, and California law, mandating a reduction of the volume of disposable waste.”
We now want to raise community awareness of the benefits of recycling, while informing residents how and where to recycle, he added.
We also want residents to understand that the money from recycling goes directly toward benefitting their communities, he explained.
Fitness equipment, computers for elementary schools, fire rings at beaches and camp grounds and a book mobile are some of the items that have already been purchased with money made from recycling on Camp Pendleton.
“When people recycle, they don’t only help the environment, they help themselves,” Bradshaw said. “It is a simple way to improve the community. The new exchange is being built partly from recycling funds.”
In the upcoming weeks, residents can expect to see more recycling bins throughout the base for bottles, cans, paper and cardboard.
Additionally, those interested in receiving a container for their home or office can call the recycling center.
“We want to make it easier for people to recycle,” Bradshaw said. “We will bring them what they need to recycle, as well as pick up the items when the container is filled, they don’t need to come down to recycle.”
The Marine Corps had a record year for recycling in 2007, raising $6 million Corps wide. Camp Pendleton was the most successful installation that year, responsible for one-third of the Marine Corps’ profits, he said.
“The program reflects our dedication to not only a safer environment, but what the community means to us,” he explained. “We are making a difference.”
Camp Pendleton’s main recycling center is located in the 22 Area, and two satellite centers are located in the 52 and 13 Areas.
For more information about the base recycling program, call or visit the recycling center at (760) 725-4892 or contact Charles Bradshaw at (760) 725-4982.
More information on the program is available at www.cprecycle.com.