Recycle Right
Recycle Right and Safe Battery Disposal pairs San José State University (SJSU) Public Relations students with the City of San José to develop communication strategies that promote proper recycling practices and the safe disposal of batteries. The project responds to a community-identified need for clear, accessible information about improper disposal and its consequences, including fires in waste collection vehicles, emergency dumping of materials onto neighborhood streets, and increased service costs.
A class of 30 SJSU students applies public relations principles to this real-world community issue. City representatives provide subject matter expertise on Recycle Right guidelines and battery disposal, while students research the topic, develop campaign concepts, and present communication recommendations designed to support community education.
For SJSU students, the project provides meaningful professional experience in audience analysis, strategic messaging, campaign development, and client engagement. Students connect classroom learning with a pressing environmental and public safety issue while developing ideas that can support the City’s ongoing outreach efforts.
Through Recycle Right and Safe Battery Disposal, CommUniverCity strengthens university-community partnerships while helping residents understand how everyday disposal decisions can protect neighborhoods, waste collection workers, and the environment.