Goleta replaces sand bags with burlap bags to reduce carbon footprint

GOLETA, Calif. -- The City of Goleta announced the replacement of their sandbags to a more eco-friendly alternative on Wednesday.

Officials are replacing the woven polypropylene sandbags with burlap bags at its sandbag distribution sites.

This follows the City's removal of single-use plastics at City Hall, the Corporation Yard and at all of the libraries in Goleta Valley, Buellton and Solvang back in September.

Officials say the burlap bags are more eco-friendly than the woven polypropylene bags.

Officials say polypropylene bags have been proven to break down and shred into small plastic fibers, they are not biodegradable and they eventually end up in our oceans.

City officials say burlap bags are made from natural plant fibers and are biodegradable.

The City will provide these new burlap sandbags at the following locations:

• Fire Station 11 - 6901 Frey Way and Storke Road, south of Santa Felicia and across from the main post office
• Fire Station 14 - 320 Los Caneros Road next to the Stow House Museum
• Goleta Valley Community Center - 5679 Hollister Avenue

These are self-serve locations where the City provides sand and bags for residents to use in protecting their homes from storm damage.

The City's sandbag locations are stocked for residents.

The City provided the following information for residents when they're picking up sand bags:

• Sand and bags are available on a first come, first served basis.
• Pick up is open during daylight hours, seven days/week.
• 20 bag limit (additional bags can be purchased at home improvement stores).
• Bags are for residents.
• Bring your shovel to fill the bags.
• It is easiest to fill the bags with two people-- one to hold the bag and the other to shovel the sand.

To dispose of old polypropylene sandbags:

• Residents may displace old sand in planters or on lawns, and dispose of bags in their trash containers.
• Residents may also bring their old filled bags to Public Works Corporate Yard located at 6735 Hollister Avenue, behind the Deckers building, for disposal.

To stay informed, register for emergency alerts from Santa Barbara County by clicking here.

To sign up for emergency information from the City click here.

To get more tips on winter storm preparedness click here.