Master Recycler Volunteer Training Program

To apply for this training, please complete the following form.

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Are you passionate about Zero Waste? Are you ready to learn more about reducing waste, diverting food scraps from the landfill, recycling right, and then educating and inspiring others so they can make a difference too? If you answered yes, then the City of Santa Cruz's Master Recycler Volunteer Training Program is for you.

Over eight in-person sessions (six Tuesdays and two Saturdays), you'll learn why recycling is so much more than a triangle and a blue bin. You'll learn new strategies to reduce waste and why it is imperative we get food waste out of the landfill. To help in your planning and making the commitment, class dates and times are:

2/10/26,  2/14/26,  2/17/26,  2/24/26,  2/28/26,  3/3/26,  3/10/26,  3/17/26

Tuesday classes are 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm; Saturday classes are 10:00 am - 1:00 pm. 

Advanced application and confirmation of registration is required. Application for the 2026 training closes on January 30th.

Space is limited; priority consideration will be given to people who reside or work within the City of Santa Cruz. Participants must be at least 18 years of age.

Note: Class session material, announcements, and message board will be shared using the online private and virtual platform, Discord. Invitations to join will be extended to participants prior to the first class. After the training, volunteers are asked to commit to 20 hours of volunteer time in the first year. 

Printable Program Brochure(PDF, 6MB)

Looking for less of a commitment? Try our half-day Recycle Right Workshop!

March 14th, 2026 10:00 am - 2:30 pm

The City's Waste Reduction Department is offering an opportunity for visitors to come learn about the underbelly of waste, while also workshopping how to Recycle Right! in the City of Santa Cruz and avoid unnecessary waste. Join us for this free half-day workshop! 

Registration is required. Space is limited. Register here!