FAQs
What is California Refund Value?
California Refund Value (CRV) is the amount paid by consumers at the checkout stand and paid back to consumers when they recycle eligible aluminum, plastic, glass and bi-metal beverage containers at certified recycling centers. The minimum refund value established for each type of eligible beverage container is 5 cents for each container under 24 ounces and 10 cents for each container 24 ounces or greater.
Where can I find the nearest recycling center?
There are approximately 2,000 certified recycling centers in California. To find centers near you, visit our online recycling center locator. Or, call the Department of Conservation hotline at 1-800-RECYCLE.
What other recycling options are there?
* Donate recyclables to a community service program
* Utilize available curbside recycling programs
As with certified recycling centers, these programs are operated by independent businesses, non-profits or local governments, not the State of California.
How much do recycling centers pay per pound?
The Department of Conservation establishes the minimum per-pound rates for each container type: aluminum, glass, plastic and bi-metal. Recycling centers pay the CRV to consumers for their redeemed beverage containers. In addition to the CRV, recyclers may also pay a scrap value, which fluctuates according to current demand for the recycled material. Find out the latest per-pound rates.
Can recycling centers pay less than the refund value for redeemed containers?
Yes, if the material is contaminated. Operators of certified recycling centers must inspect each load of containers to determine whether it is eligible for the CRV. Recycling centers have the option to refuse to accept containers that, in their opinion, are excessively contaminated with dirt, moisture, or other foreign substances. Alternatively, recycling centers may adjust the CRV per pound downward to calculate the payment by the ratio of such substances to empty beverage containers. In this circumstance, the consumer has the right to accept the discounted refund and/or scrap price, to separate refund from non-refund material, or to take the material back.
Can I get CRV for beverage containers brought in from other states or countries?
No, out-of-state material is not eligible for California Refund Value. Consumers and others may only claim CRV for aluminum, glass and plastic beverage containers that were sold in California.
Do I need to crush my cans?
Generally, no. However, requirements regarding the condition of beverage containers are established by the recycling center and may vary. Contact the nearest recycling center to determine its requirements.
Do I need to remove the caps from my plastic bottles?
Requirements regarding plastic bottle caps are established by the recycling center and may vary. Contact the nearest recycling center to determine its requirements, but generally speaking, it’s best to remove all bottle caps.
How can I contact the Department of Conservation’s Division of Recycling?
801 K Street, MS 19-01
Sacramento, CA 95814-3533
Phone: (916) 323-3836
Hotline: 1-800-RECYCLE
FAX: (916) 327-2144
Email: DOR Webmaster
Where can I recycle my motor oil or old tires? Can I get a list of businesses that sell products made from recycled materials?
All non-beverage container recycling questions, such as those regarding motor oil, tires, etc., should be directed to the California Integrated Waste Management Board. The CIWMB Web site is at http://www.ciwmb.ca.gov; its general telephone number is (916) 341-6000
Want to know more about what it’s like to start a recycling program? Read our Recycling Tips and Living Green Success Stories.