Prevent & Avoid

The best way to reduce waste is to prevent it from being generated in the first place. Try to rethink what you buy with waste prevention in mind. Ask yourself: Do I really need it? Is it over-packaged? Can I buy it in bulk? Will it stand the test of time? Can I share it with a family member, friend or neighbor? Is it safe to use around my family and pets? To avoid over-shopping and prevent food waster, consider planning a weekly menu. Avoid single use items that go straight in the recycling or garbage such as plastic water bottles, paper plates, individually packaged snacks, etc.  

Repurpose, Reuse & Repair

Before throwing something away consider: Could the item be of value to someone else? Could it be reused for another purpose or repaired to extend its life? When you do need to buy something, consider if it can be purchased second-hand.

Novato has a number of excellent second-hand and consignment stores where you can sell, donate and purchase used goods. 

Recycling

All Novato residents are entitled to a FREE blue cart to recycle paper, glass, metal, aseptic packaging and plastic, and a FREE green cart to recycle green waste and food scraps when they pay for regular garbage service. The more you reduce, reuse and recycle, the more money you’ll save on your garbage bill!  To confirm what goes where, visit Novato’s recycling, organics, and waste collection service providerRecology’s website. Larger quantities of recycling can be dropped off the Novato Recycling Centerlocated at 7576 Redwood Blvd.

Composting

Keeping organic matter (food scraps and green waste) out of the garbage helps to reduce methane gas emissions and preserve landfill space. Separated from garbage, organic matter can be turned into compost; a rich soil amendment that increases water retention, builds soil structure, and adds vital nutrients to soil. All types of food scraps and nearly all types of green waste can be placed in your green cart.

In addition to recycling your green waste and food scraps, you can go one step further by purchasing Redwood Landfill’s organic Homegrown Compost which is made from local organic matter collected in curbside bins and commercial dumpsters.

Safe Disposal

Hazardous materials and medicines should never be placed in your garbage or flushed down the sink or toilet since they harm our environment. The Novato Hazardous Waste Facility operated by Novato Sanitary District, located at 7576 Redwood Boulevard accepts household quantities of the most common types of household hazardous wastes. Medicine (including controlled substances) can be disposed of at no cost in the Safe Medicine Disposal bins located in the lobby of the Novato Police Department, 909 Machin Avenue.

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