Residential Organic Waste Recycling is Here!

SB 1383 - Reducing Short Lived Climate Pollutants in California is a state law which became effective January 1, 2022 and sets aggressive targets for Californians to reduce organic (food & green/landscape) waste disposal by 75% by 2025 and increase edible food recovery by 20% by 2025. This is part of a statewide effort to reduce emissions of short-lived climate pollutants like methane, which is considered a super pollutant 85x more potent than carbon dioxide. Organic waste in landfills emits 20% of the state's methane.

Did you know that CalRecycle reports that recycling organic waste, including food waste, is the next critical step to protect our communities and our environment from the impacts of climate change. Organic waste in landfills accounts for 20% of the methane gas generated in California. Methane, a super-pollutant, has a short-term atmospheric life, but a long-term impact on the climate.

The Town has gone to a three-barrel system. Here is what you can and can't put in each bin. Still not sure? That's okay, we are here to help. Call us at 760-240-7000 Ext 7561 

Most frequently asked questions

• Am I required to participate?  Yes, this is a California law that requires all residents, multi-family homes, and commercial businesses to participate in food waste recycling in order to comply with Senate Bill 1383.

• Will bags be supplied? No, but don't worry you can use any bag since the food waste will be removed from the bags at the compost facility.

• What is the benefit of recycling food waste? Your recycling efforts contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions in landfilled organic waste. This includes methane, a greenhouse gas 80 times more potent the carbon dioxide.

• I already backyard compost, do I have to participate? We encourage you to continue backyard composting. Organic items not suitable for backyard compost can be recycled through this program.

• Can I use my garbage disposal instead? No need to change your current garbage disposal use. Food currently being discarded in your trash barrel should now be placed in your green waste barrel.

• What items are acceptable? Fruits, Vegetables, meats, seafood, dairy, eggshells, bread, food scraps, plate scrapings and expired food.

• What items are not acceptable? Trash, Styrofoam, liquids, glass, plastics, metal, diapers, pet waste, electronic waste and hazardous waste.

• What if my can is not large enough for all my green waste? The Town is working on having a options.

• When will the new can get picked up?  All the cans will get picked up all on the same days.

For more frequently asked question Q&A Organic Waste Recycling and SB1383