San Diego Residents Turn Recyclables into Cash

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.