Jorge Turcios sitting at his desk
What is your job at Metro? What does a typical day look like?
For the past six years, I've worked at the recycling information center, where my main role is to provide information and education about recyclable materials in the metropolitan area. I focus on preventing contamination in both garbage and recycling containers. Additionally, I support the two transfer stations by answering questions regarding acceptable materials, pricing, hours, hazardous materials and more.
A typical day involves answering phone inquiries and helping customers with information on waste prevention and recycling correctly. This type of service allows me to connect with a variety of people from the region, which is one of the aspects I enjoy most. Sometimes, I receive simple questions, but other times, there are more complicated situations, such as what to do with a dead goldfish (garbage or compost?). I also assist with answering emails and questions submitted through Instagram and collaborate on the Recycle or Not Instagram page.
What do you enjoy most about your work?
One of the things I enjoy most about my job is helping people who want to change their habits and learn how to reduce their material consumption. I love having long conversations where we can share ideas and provide education that meets them where they are, based on their needs
Furthermore, I really enjoy going out to support the small hazardous waste events and promote the reduced use of chemicals and to ensure they are disposed of properly when no longer needed. At these events, I can connect directly with our diverse community, which makes me very happy and proud of what I do.
What's the most common question you get about recycling?
Plastics are always a big topic of conversation, especially the "wishful" recycling mindset where people think every plastic should go in the recycling bin.
When you're not at work, how do you like to spend your time?
I love traveling and discovering new recipes. Now that I have a job that allows me to explore new places, and I'm making the most of it. I also enjoy spending time with my family, who are always the ones to test (and sometimes disapprove of) my culinary experiments.