Recology works closely with city and state government toward our shared sustainability goals. The most impactful pieces of recycling legislation in California are AB 341, AB 1826 and SB 1383.
AB 341: Mandatory Commercial Recycling
Effective July 1, 2012, California Assembly Bill 341 (AB 341) mandates all businesses that generate more than 4 cubic yards of solid waste “trash” per week, and multifamily dwellings of 5 units or more are subject to mandatory commercial recycling. Businesses can take one, or any combination of the following actions in order to divert recyclable waste from landfill:
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- Self-haul
- Subscribe to a hauler
AB 1826: Mandatory Commercial Organics
Effective January 1, 2020, California Assembly Bill 1826 (AB 1826) mandates all businesses, and multifamily dwellings of 5 units or more, that generate 2 cubic yards or more of commercial solid waste “trash, recycling, and organics” per week are subject to mandatory organics recycling. Businesses can take one, or any combination of the following actions in order to divert compostable waste from landfill:
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- Self-haul
- Subscribe to a hauler
- Recycle organic waste on site through such means as composting, anaerobic digestion, and/or vermi composting.
SB 1383
SB 1383 builds upon California’s leading commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution statewide. SB1383 will require all businesses and residents to divert organic materials (including: food waste, yard waste and soiled paper products) from the landfill. Starting January 1st, 2022 regulations will take effect and State enforcement begins. The law also requires the state to increase edible food recovery by 20% by 2025. To review CalRecycle resources and education about Senate Bill 1383, click here.