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Increase Your Knowledge of Waste Reduction
By Staff Writer
Published on Fri, Jul 18, 2025
This fall, residents are encouraged to take part in the City of Long Beach’s Compost and Recycling Ambassador (CRA) Program. This free seven-week course is a chance to help build a cleaner, greener Long Beach.
By joining, you’ll learn how to reduce waste, compost at home and better understand how recycling works in our city. You’ll also meet other like-minded neighbors who care about the environment and want to make a difference. Whether you are brand new to composting or already a recycling pro, this program will give you the tools to lead by example in your home, neighborhood and workplace.
Once you complete the program, including attending at least six of the seven classes and volunteering 25 hours, you’ll be certified as a Compost and Recycling Ambassador. That means you’ll be ready to share what you’ve learned and be a go-to resource in your community.
Ambassadors play an important role in making sure information reaches more people, especially those who may not have easy access to it. You’ll help others understand why recycling and composting matter and how to do it correctly.
Since the program started in 2022, over 100 residents from all across Long Beach have given back more than 1,300 hours to support waste reduction and cleaner air through community outreach. Ambassadors share their knowledge with friends, family and neighbors at community events, neighborhood cleanups, around the dinner table and more.
This fall’s CRA Program, hosted by the Department of Public Works, is open to Long Beach residents 18 and older. Classes will be held every Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon, August 30 through October 4, with a final graduation session on October 18. All classes will take place at the Environmental Services Bureau at 2929 E. Willow Street.
Space is limited, so early registration is encouraged. Applications open Monday, July 21 at 10 a.m. and will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. You can apply at lbcity.info/CRA25.
This is a great opportunity to grow your skills, help your neighborhood and the entire community, and be part of a group working toward a better Long Beach.
