At Recology, we work closely with city and state governments to ensure that our shared sustainability goals are made possible. Below are the most impactful pieces of recycling legislation pursuant to those goals – SB 1383, AB 341, and AB 1826.
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. The law expands upon the goals of AB 341 and AB 1826, described below.
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. Click here to view Recology’s webpage dedicated to the legislation. To learn more and review CalRecycle resources and education about Senate Bill 1383, click here.
AB 341
California Assembly Bill 341 (AB 341) mandates recycling for all businesses that generate more than 4 cubic yards of solid waste per week, and multifamily dwellings of 5 units or more. AB 341 is designed to reduce GHG emissions in the state by 5 million metric tons of carbon dioxide (CO2).
Businesses and public entities are able to subscribe to composting and recycling services to comply. Property owners of a commercial business or multifamily residential dwelling may also require tenants to source separate their recyclable materials to aid in compliance.
AB 1826
In October 2014, California passed Assembly Bill 1826 (AB 1826), mandating all businesses and commercial establishments, including multi-family units, to arrange for organics recycling and hauling. Businesses generating a minimum of 8 cubic yards of organics per week must have a hauler and organics program in place. Organics include both food scraps and yard trimmings.
The goal of this legislation is avoid sending organic materials to landfill, therefore finding the best and highest use for these resources.