Many San Diego residents are earning extra cash by recycling bottles and cans at local centers like Miramar Recycling Center through California's Redemption Value Program. - The program refunds the 5- or 10-cent deposit paid per container at purchase.
- Participants like Sandy Law and James Montero collected two years' worth of plastic bottles, earning $57 toward an exercise bike. - Recycling centers accept aluminum, glass, plastic, and scrap metal, with prices based on weight and current market value.
- Officials remind residents that taking cans from private property or unabandoned bins is considered trespassing and theft. The program not only provides a small income stream but also encourages environmental stewardship, with some residents like Carmen Sohikish saying they do it for fun and to help the planet.