Advancing Carpet Recycling in
California’s Public Sector with CARE

California’s public sector institutions—state and local government agencies, schools, and colleges—play a crucial role in advancing sustainability goals through responsible waste management. While many sustainability efforts focus on energy efficiency and water conservation, carpet recycling remains an often-overlooked yet vital component of reducing landfill waste and meeting regulatory requirements. The Carpet America Recovery Effort (CARE) is a key resource helping public agencies navigate carpet recycling, ensuring compliance, cost savings, and environmental benefits.

What is CARE?

CARE is a non-profit organization committed to developing and implementing market-based solutions for recycling post-consumer carpet. Since its founding in 2002, CARE has diverted over five billion pounds of carpet from landfills, fostering the use of recycled materials in new products and creating economic opportunities within the recycling sector.

Why Carpet Recycling Matters for Public Sector Institutions

Public sector entities in California are required to comply with evolving sustainability regulations, including mandates under the California Carpet Stewardship Program (CCSP), which is managed by CARE and overseen by CalRecycle. By actively participating in carpet recycling efforts, public agencies can:

• Meet Compliance Requirements: CARE helps institutions adhere to AB 2398 and other carpet recycling laws by providing guidance, certified recycling networks, and support services.
• Reduce Environmental Impact: Recycling carpet prevents millions of pounds of material from reaching landfills, conserves natural resources, and lowers greenhouse gas emissions.
• Save Costs: Proper recycling can reduce disposal fees and support the procurement of cost-effective, sustainable flooring options.
• Support Local Economies: Engaging in carpet recycling fosters job creation within the recycling industry and strengthens the state’s circular economy.

Green Technology: Connecting Public Sector Leaders with CARE

As a trusted advocate for sustainability in California’s public sector, Green Technology plays a key role in connecting government agencies and educational institutions with sustainability resources like CARE. Through its conferences, workshops, and resource network, Green Technology helps decision-makers stay informed and take action toward sustainability compliance.

At the Sustainable Facilities Forum on May 15th in Sacramento, attendees will have the opportunity to engage directly with CARE representatives, gain insights into carpet recycling best practices, and explore solutions for integrating sustainable materials into public buildings.

By leveraging CARE’s expertise and Green Technology’s platform, public agencies can take meaningful steps toward reducing waste, meeting sustainability mandates, and contributing to California’s leadership in environmental stewardship.

Join us at the Sustainable Facilities Forum in Sacramento on May 15th to connect with CARE and explore how your organization can enhance its sustainability strategy through effective carpet recycling!