Understanding Pendleton's recycling program

Throwing an old milk carton or empty soda can into the recycling bin is second nature to the average American citizen, and most of us really don’t put much thought into where all of those used recyclables go once they reach our garbage bins.

But according to Charles Bradshaw, Camp Pendleton’s recycling programs manager, base residents should pay a little bit more attention to what they’re throwing away.

“Our recycling program [on base] is fantastic,” explained Bradshaw, “but most of our man-hours at our facility are spent sorting out the contaminated recyclables from the re-usable material. Co...