Starting this month, the City of San Diego will begin implementing its new organic waste recycling program for residents.
The program is the product of a new California law that became effective in January 2022. One of its goals is to divert 75 percent of organic waste from landfills by 2025.
Reasons for the change
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, organic waste accounts for a significant portion of California’s waste stream.When organic waste is left to decompose in landfills, it releases methane, a gas that traps the sun’s heat, warms the atmosphere, and contributes to climate change, according to the city’s Environmental Services website. The decomposition also emits air pollutants such as fine particulate matter—also known as PM 2.5—which contributes to health conditions like asthma.
Beyond simply collecting and recycling organic waste, the new law requires municipalities to use products made from recycled organic material, such as renewable energy, compost, and mulch. It also requires certain businesses to donate edible food to organizations, with the goal of redirecting 20 percent of such food waste to people in need.
Cities in the same county are also asked to collaborate with each other and local organizations to better recycle organic waste, recover edible food, and maintain records demonstrating how they are complying with the law. These records will assist with compliance inspections required by local and state agencies.
Other portions of the law include reporting requirements, various waivers and exemptions, and even a portal where people can file complaints for lack of recycling services, improper labeling of bins, and other solid waste concerns.
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