Mountain View City Council urged to approve Ridwell's recycling pilot program

Mountain View residents are rallying for a new recycling initiative as the city council considers a proposal from Ridwell, a subscription-based service that collects hard-to-recycle items directly from homes. During a joint meeting on May 13, 2025, community members passionately advocated for the program, emphasizing its alignment with the city’s zero waste goals.

Residents expressed frustration over the limited recycling options currently available through Recology, the city’s waste management partner. Many highlighted that common household items, such as chip bags and clamshell containers, are not accepted in the standard curbside recycling program. Ridwell’s pilot program aims to fill this gap by providing a service that collects these materials, which would otherwise end up in landfills.

Speakers at the meeting included local students and long-time residents who shared personal stories about their recycling challenges. A 10-year-old student described how his school’s green team has significantly reduced waste through education and community effort, underscoring the potential impact of expanding recycling services. Other residents noted that they are willing to pay for Ridwell’s service, which would not impose any additional costs on the city or those who choose not to participate.

The council was urged to engage with Ridwell to explore the feasibility of the pilot program, with many residents expressing a desire for the city to take action. They argued that allowing Ridwell to operate would not only enhance recycling efforts but also demonstrate the city’s commitment to environmental sustainability.

As the meeting concluded, the growing support for Ridwell was evident, with over 500 residents reportedly backing the initiative. The city council is now faced with the decision to prioritize this program, which could significantly contribute to Mountain View’s waste reduction efforts and set a precedent for similar initiatives in the future.