AB 1826
Mandatory Commercial Organics Recycling
About AB 1826
Assembly Bill 1826 requires businesses that generate a specified amount of organic waste per week to arrange for recycling services for that waste. The law uses a tiered implementation schedule, which phases in requirements on businesses over time based on the amount and type of organics or waste the business produces on a weekly basis.
Why Organics
Mandatory recycling of organic waste is the next step toward achieving California’s recycling and greenhouse gas (GHG) emission goals. Organic waste such as green materials and food materials are recyclable through composting and mulching, and through anaerobic digestion, which can produce renewable energy and fuel. GHG emissions resulting from the decomposition of organic wastes in landfills have been identified as a significant source of emissions contributing to global climate change.
Food waste includes solid, semisolid, and liquid food, such as fruits, vegetables, cheese, meat, bones, poultry, seafood, rice, pasta and oils.
AB 1826 Compliance
Waste Management is currently working with the cities we serve on programs to support AB 1826. In early 2016 businesses who fall within the requirements of AB 1826 were notified about setting up an organics recycling program. Please refer back periodically to our website for the most current information regarding AB 1826 and when recycling programs become available in your city.
AB 1826 Implementation Timeline
- April 1, 2016
Businesses generating 8 cubic-yards per week of food waste shall arrange for food waste recycling service
- January 1, 2017
Businesses generating 4 cubic-yards per week of food waste shall arrange for food waste recycling service
- January 1, 2019
Businesses generating 4 cubic-yards per week of solid waste shall arrange for food waste recycling service
Does Your Business Qualify?
For a better understanding of the waste your business produces and if your business falls within the thresholds of the AB1826 standards, please contact us at organicsnorthcounty@wm.com . Please allow up to 5 business days for a response.
Where to Go for More Information