Sunnyvale

Disposing of wastes properly and picking up litter can make the environment safer for wildlife and ourselves. Food left out can be unhealthy for wild animals. Pouring anything into storm drains or creeks can pollute drinking water, harm wildlife and native plants. For information about pollution prevention contact the City of Sunnyvale Water Pollution Control Plant at (408) 730-7260 or the Santa Clara Valley Water District Nonpoint Source Pollution Control Program at (800) 794-2482.

As the population expands, more and more pressures are put on the limited natural resources that make the Bay Area unique. To help preserve natural resources, open space and the quality of our lives, here are a few steps you can take to conserve and lessen our impact.

Participate

Active participation assists land managers in taking care of parks.

Many parks need volunteers to educate the public in preserving resources and assist in habitat restoration. Every year organizations sponsor a Coastal Clean Up in nearby areas to remove litter that is an eyesore and is harmful to wildlife.
Leave No Trace. Take care of your parks by picking up your litter.
Join an organization that works with local, state and federal governments to oversee and protect natural areas.

Reduce Toxics

Many household products contain heavy metals and other toxic materials that can contaminate drinking water supplies and the Bay.

Dispose of toxic wastes properly; never pour toxic materials on the land or down storm drains.
Learn more about products that are safe for the environment.
"Home Maintenance Tips for a Cleaner Bay" produced by the Santa Clara Valley Nonpoint Source Pollution Control Program (800) 794-2482 .
"Take Me Shopping: A Consumer Guide to Safer Alternatives for Household Hazardous Products" produced by the Santa Clara County Hazardous Waste Management Program (408) 441-1195

Conserve Water

Even during years with high rainfall California has a limited supply of water for a growing population. Reducing the amount of treated fresh water discharged into the South Bay preserves salt marsh wetlands.

Use less water by installing flow restrictors and low-flush toilets.
Plant drought-tolerant plants for landscaping and shade trees to cool your home.
Water during the morning or evening to minimize evaporation.

Use Mass Transportation

Use of fossil fuels used to operate vehicles causes air and water pollution and uses a limited natural resource.

Properly maintained vehicles will use less gas and have cleaner exhausts. Oil and automobile fluids from leaking vehicles pollute water supplies, creeks and the Bay.
Use the bus, train, rapid transit or carpool to reduce the number of vehicles on the road.
For short trips use a bicycle or walk to save on using gas and to reduce air pollution.

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

Reusing materials reduces energy required in manufacturing, saves limited natural resources and reduces trash sent to landfills.

Reduce the amount of materials by buying products that use less packaging. Share "leftover" products with your neighbor. Compost yard wastes to make organic material for your garden and to reduce the amount of material sent to landfills.
Many materials can be reused. If you no longer have a use for an item, consider donating it to an organization that can use it.
Aluminum, newspaper, glass and other materials can be recycled through your city's curbside recycling program or at redemption centers.