The Comprehensive Waste Reduction Program reduces the park’s impact on landfills by promoting reuse, reduction, and recycling. The Presidio is a long time member of the Environmental Protection Agency’s Waste Wise Program. In 2006 the Trust reported over 70% diversion of materials from the waste stream by recycling more than 6,000 tons of scrap metal, office recyclables, household materials, construction materials, organic debris and more.
Presidio Recycling
The Presidio has two major partners in recycling. The San Francisco Conservation Corps provides hands-on job training to young adults who operate an on-site recycling center, collect recyclables from offices and public areas, and provide waste reduction outreach.
The Trust contracts with Golden Gate Disposal for refuse and curbside recycling service. Golden Gate Disposal is an innovator in waste reduction. They have implemented a co-mingled curbside recycling service that has simplified recycling and greatly increased diversion rates.
Salvaging Reusable Materials
The Presidio Trust salvage crew collects unwanted but reusable furniture, building materials, office supplies, tools, and other materials, and redistributes them for reuse. Items that can not be reused are offered for sale to government agencies, non-profit organizations, and the general public through the General Services Administration’s online auction. Each major Presidio rehabilitation or construction project requires a waste reduction plan. Materials such as lumber, doors, hardware, and fixtures are salvaged for reuse. Unusable materials such as scrap metal, carpeting, and rubble are collected for recycling.
Compost and Regeneration Program
The Presidio Trust Compost and Regeneration program diverts organic debris like grass, brush, and wood chips from the waste stream. These materials are composted on-site and processed into a valuable soil amendment. The finished product is used to nourish park soils, from the Presidio Golf Course to the historic forest. Compost adds nutrients and helps soil hold moisture.