Join us for an engaging Coastal Issues Forum!
“Beyond the Blue Bin: Waste Diversion and Youth Action in Corpus Christi”
Date: October 5, 2026
Time: 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Location: Del Mar College – Center for Economic Development, 3209 S Staples St, Corpus Christi, TX
Join us for an upcoming Coastal Issues Forum to find out what actually happens after your recyclables leave the curb in Corpus Christi? This session follows the local waste stream, featuring a behind-the-scenes video tour of Republic Services’ sorting operations at the Materials Recovery Facility (MRF).
Attendees will discover eye-opening timelines on how long everyday discarded items persist in landfills and coastal environments, while learning practical tips to keep bins contamination-free. The presentation will also highlight the city’s new composting initiative and the launch of our Environmental Coalition, which connects high school environmental club volunteers to lead grassroots sustainability across the Coastal Bend.
Fun fact: Did You Know? An aluminum can tossed into a recycling bin can be sorted, recycled, and back on the shelf as a brand-new product in just 60 days. In a landfill, that single can will take 500 years to decompose.
- Networking Reception: 5:30–6:00 PM
- Interactive Presentation: 6:00–7:30 PM
Networking ~ Free Food ~ Open to the Public ~ Interactive
Coastal Issues Forums (CIFs) are made possible through the generous support of our partners and are always free and open to the public, with no RSVP required.
CIFs are designed to bring together diverse community stakeholders to identify key challenges facing the Texas Coastal Bend and explore practical solutions, while also educating the public about relevant programs and opportunities. These forums foster open dialogue in a welcoming, non-biased environment that encourages learning, collaboration, and community engagement.
Meet the Presenter
Penelope Guerra, Recycling Outreach Coordinator, City of Corpus Christi Solid Waste Services
Penelope Guerra is the Compost and Recycling Outreach Coordinator with Corpus Christi Solid Waste Services. Dedicated to waste diversion and community education, Penelope leads public outreach to improve local recycling quality, spearheads municipal composting initiatives, and mentors the next generation of Coastal Bend leaders through the high school Environmental Coalition.
Whether you’re a business owner, partner, or community supporter, there’s a place for you at the table. Come connect, contribute, and be part of the community.
Check out some of the recorded CIF presentations on our YouTube! Click HERE!
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