April 16, 2008 > Ways to stay green in Hayward Ways to stay green in Hayward Mercury Thermometers Exchanging your mercury thermometer for a free digital thermometer is one way to keep mercury out of the Bay and reduce water pollution. Bring your mercury thermometer either in its original plastic case or sealed inside two resealable plastic bags Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. to: Hayward Utilities Center - Water Pollution Source Control 24499 Soto Rd., Hayward Call (510) 881-7996 for more information. Composting Another way to help the environment is by composting. Composting is nature's way of recycling. Once you compost scrap food items such as orange or banana peels, you can use the compost as a fertilizer for your soil to grow heartier vegetables, or healthier flowers and grass in your yard. There are many resources available to residents interested in doing home composting such as "how to" brochures, free workshops and other information provided by the Alameda County Waste Management Authority. For more information about the services or aid available to get you started with composting, call (510) 444-7645.