By Councilmember Scott Sherman

As we approach springtime in San Diego, many families will begin the annual tradition of spring cleaning and getting rid of unwanted junk. Oftentimes, finding a location to dispose of bulky and hazardous materials can be a difficult task.

My office is teaming with the Environmental Services Department for a free community cleanup and recycling event at Qualcomm Stadium on March 21 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. The purpose of the event is to give residents a place to dispose of unwanted items such as electronics, appliances, metals, junk furniture, mattresses, as well as wood and yard trimmings.

Hard-to-dispose-of items such as fluorescent light bulbs and household batteries, which could cause heavy damage to the environment, will also be accepted.

As an avid outdoorsman and dedicated conservationist who enjoys spending time on the water, I have seen pollution firsthand. This is why the event at Qualcomm is important, to ensure that waste is recycled or disposed of in a responsible manner.

At last year’s event, more than 32 tons of waste and recyclable material was collected. More than one and a half tons were hazardous materials such as toxic bulbs and batteries.

Recycling these materials will also extend the life of the Miramar Landfill, the only landfill in operation in the city.

Items that will not be accepted include tires, hazardous waste such as paint, chemicals and pesticides, as well as construction and demolition debris. The event is only open to city of San Diego residents.

For more information regarding this important event please contact the Environmental Services Department at 858-694-7000. Hope to see you there!

—Councilmember Scott Sherman represents the neighborhoods of Allied Gardens, Grantville, San Carlos, Del Cerro and Mission Trails on the San Diego City Council. Contact him at [email protected] or 619-236-6677.