New recycling bins at rest stops in California

Citing the need for all Californians to work together to increase recycling, the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), the plastics industries of the American Chemistry Council and Keep California Beautiful (KCB) are working to place new recycling bins and educational signage at the Gaviota, Camp Roberts and Shandon rest areas.

Until now, there has not been a widespread campaign that makes it easy for travelers to recycle while discouraging them from littering. More than 100 million motorists visit California’s 87 roadside rest areas every year. With this expanded program, travelers have more opportunities to recycle while they are on the road.

“This campaign continues to call attention to recycling bins at the rest stops, helping to increase recycling and encourage proper waste disposal,” said Rich Krumholz, director, Caltrans District 5.

In 2009, the public-private partnership between Caltrans, ACC and KCB led to the placement of nine new recycling bins and educational signage at the H. Dana Bowers Rest Area and Vista Point, north of the Golden Gate Bridge. This year educational signage will be placed on 18 new bins at the Camp Roberts rest area and the partners will place recycling bins at the Shandon rest area when it opens in the fall.