Overview of SB 1383

SB 1383 is California’s most significant waste reduction mandate in the last 30 years. It aims to reduce short-lived climate pollutants, such as methane gas, across the state. The State has committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving health, and creating jobs that support local economies.

SB 1383 Targets

• Reduce statewide organic waste disposal by 75% by 2025.
• Rescue at least 20% of edible food currently going to landfills by 2025.

What is Organic Waste, and Why Divert It?

For SB 1383, organic waste includes green waste, wood waste, food waste, and fibers like paper and cardboard. Landfilling organic waste leads to anaerobic breakdown, creating methane. Currently, landfills contribute to 21% of California's methane emissions. Diverting organic waste to recycling facilities can significantly reduce negative environmental and health impacts.

Organic Waste Processing in the Community

Organic waste is processed at Tracy Material Recovery. Yard trimmings and food scraps are composted in an open-windrow system, producing nutrient-rich compost used in local landscapes, gardens, fields, and orchards. Fiber products like paper and cardboard are recycled into new products.

How SB 1383 Affects Residents and Businesses

All residents and businesses must divert organic waste from landfills. Key requirements include:

• Businesses must provide labeled recycling and organic recycling bins next to waste containers.
• Some businesses must recover edible food for human consumption.
• West Valley Disposal will perform Curbside Audits and Route Reviews to assist with compliance.

Three-Waste Stream Requirement

This law requires businesses to implement a three-waste stream system for separating waste. Jurisdictions must ensure:

• Standardized curbside container colors for residents and businesses.
• Container labels on new containers.

Recycling Requirements for Businesses and Public Entities

Recycling

Businesses, public entities, and multifamily dwellings must:

• Subscribe to a mixed recycling or source-separated recycling service.
• Self-haul recyclable items to a certified recycler.
• Donate or sell recyclable materials.

Organics Recycling

To comply, businesses, public entities, and multifamily dwellings must:

• Subscribe to a recycling service for organics.
• Self-haul organics and other recyclable items to a certified recycler.
• Operate an on-site organics recycling program per local and state regulations.
• Donate or sell organic materials.

Waiver Information

Under specific circumstances, jurisdictions may waive collection requirements. CalRecycle can also waive these requirements for state, federal, and school districts under certain conditions. Waivers last up to five years.

De Minimis Waivers

Jurisdictions may offer de minimis waivers to businesses that source-reduce, compost on-site, or self-haul organic waste.

Waiver A Requirements

• More than 2 cubic yards of solid waste per week, with less than 20 gallons of organic waste for collection.

Waiver B Requirements

• Less than 2 cubic yards of solid waste per week, with less than 10 gallons of organic waste for collection.

Waivers may also apply if a business or property lacks adequate space for the required containers, provided all feasible solutions are considered.