How the SB 1383 Organics Recycling Law Will Affect Businesses in California

by Global Trash Solutions

California’s SB 1383 represents a bold initiative to combat climate change by tackling one of the biggest contributors to methane emissions: organic waste. In California, organic waste is the largest type of waste stream, and this legislation is reshaping how businesses handle it.

What Is SB 1383?

SB 1383 is part of California’s Short-Lived Climate Pollutant (SLCP) Reduction Strategy, targeting methane emissions from landfills. Methane, a potent greenhouse gas, is primarily generated by organic waste decomposing in landfills.

By 2025, the law mandates:

  • A 75% reduction in organic waste disposal compared to 2014 levels.
  • Recovery of 20% of edible food that would otherwise be discarded.

These targets follow earlier milestones, such as a 50% reduction in organic waste disposal by 2020. To achieve these goals, SB 1383 compliance requires businesses to rethink waste management and food recovery practices.

Key Changes Businesses Need to Know

The implementation of SB 1383 brings sweeping changes to how businesses in California handle organic waste and food recovery. This section outlines the key requirements every business should understand to ensure compliance and contribute to the state’s sustainability efforts.

Mandatory Organic Waste Recycling

SB 1383 mandates that all businesses subscribe to organic waste collection services or self-haul organic waste to approved facilities. Internal bins must comply with labeling and color standards, with full compliance required by 2036.

Edible Food Recovery Requirements

Businesses in the food sector, categorized as Tier 1 (e.g., grocery stores) and Tier 2 (e.g., large restaurants), must establish contracts with food recovery organizations. These agreements facilitate SB 1383 food waste recovery, ensuring edible food is diverted to feed people rather than landfills. Businesses must maintain detailed records to verify compliance.

Contamination Monitoring and Training

To reduce contamination in organic waste streams, businesses must inspect bins regularly and provide education to employees and customers. Clear labeling and frequent reminders on proper sorting practices are essential.

Enforcement and Penalties

SB 1383 is enforced by CalRecycle (California’s Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery). CalRecycle intends to focus its enforcement efforts mainly on the most significant violators. Businesses failing to comply may face fines, based on the severity of the infraction, the violator’s ability to pay the fine, and other factors.

The 2025 Goals and Their Impact on Businesses

As the 2025 deadline approaches, SB 1383’s goals of drastically reducing organic waste disposal and recovering edible food for human consumption take center stage. This section explores the implications of these goals and how they shape the future of business operations in California.

Achieving the 75% Organic Waste Diversion Goal

Businesses must adopt strategies to divert waste, such as composting or partnering with anaerobic digestion facilities. Proper equipment, like compactors and balers, can help streamline waste management and reduce costs.

Meeting the 20% Edible Food Recovery Target

California food waste recovery guidelines under SB 1383 encourage businesses to donate surplus edible food to feed communities. This approach benefits businesses by reducing disposal costs, qualifying them for tax deductions, and enhancing their reputation through community involvement.

Sustainability Opportunities

Compliance with SB 1383 also positions businesses as sustainability leaders. Consumers increasingly favor companies that are eco-conscious, and compliance can boost a business’s appeal and market competitiveness.

Challenges and Solutions

Green recycle arrow, recycling life cycle.

While SB 1383 offers opportunities for businesses to lead in sustainability, it also presents challenges that require thoughtful planning and execution.

Challenges

  • Financial Impact: Implementing infrastructure for compliance, such as labeled bins and compactors, can be costly.
  • Operational Adjustments: Sorting and managing multiple waste streams may require significant changes to daily operations.
  • Education and Training: Ensuring employees and customers are properly educated on waste sorting is an ongoing challenge.

Solutions

  • Conduct waste audits to identify inefficiencies and opportunities.
  • Use equipment like compactors and compliant containers to streamline operations.
  • Partner with food recovery organizations to meet edible food recovery goals.
  • Leverage expert guidance to simplify compliance and reduce administrative burdens.

Global Trash Solutions (GTS) can be a valuable ally to companies striving to reach compliance goals.

Green Action Plans with Global Trash Solutions

Global Trash Solutions offers businesses expert support in meeting SB 1383 compliance requirements. With years of expertise in waste management and sustainability, GTS provides:

  • Customized Waste Audits: Analyze current practices to optimize compliance strategies.
  • Compliant Equipment Solutions: Provide compactors, balers, and bins that meet regulatory standards.
  • Education Programs: Train employees and customers on proper waste sorting and contamination prevention.
  • Food Recovery Partnerships: Create connections with organizations that support SB 1383 food waste recovery, helping businesses reduce waste and give back to their communities.

Global Trash Solutions also helps businesses develop green action plans that go beyond compliance, creating pathways to long-term sustainability and cost savings.

GTS is here to help your business with SB 1383 compliance and integrate sustainability into your operations. Explore our sustainability services today and take a major step toward SB 1383 California food waste compliance.

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