Implementation
Increase local capacity for composting and processing of organic wastes. The County will also amend the Zoning Code to clarify and streamline the permitting process for operations conducting landfill diversion or that support the use of diverted organic waste. Examples include but are not limited to green waste and other organic material diversion from landfills and land application of compostable materials on agricultural land, landscaped areas in parks, and urban gardens.
Timeframe: Midterm
GHG Reduction Potential: 39,186 MT CO2e per year by 2030
Co-benefit
This measure supports GHG reduction measure GHG-01.
Sector: Solid Waste
Target Indicator: Full compliance with AB 1826 and SB 1383.
Status of Implementation
The County has implemented a 3-stream organics, recycling, and landfill waste collection system for all residential customers. All commercial customers are also required to implement a 3-stream system consistent with Senate Bill 1383. The Department of Waste Management and Recycling works with the County's franchised commercial haulers to ensure all customers are subscribed to the appropriate level of service.
The Department of Waste Management and Recycling has also developed a one-stop webpage where people can obtain service guides, watch educational videos, and run a “How do I get rid of…." search. The free SacGreenTeam mobile app is also linked for downloading on the webpage.
The County has also implemented 3-stream recovery in all its government buildings and continues to provide internal and external outreach and education to increase compliance.
Starting in 2023, the County began to hold seasonal compost giveaways of locally recovered green waste that has been processed into compost. The County has also conducted outreach and media events including free compost deliveries to local community gardens.
Additionally, Sacramento County Department of Health Services (DHS) is the lead agency for the Edible Food Recovery Working Group (EFRWG), a collaborative effort between the County and six cities to meet the edible food recovery (EFR) requirements of SB 1383. DHS will contract with an EFR consultant to manage and administer the local EFR program, develop a capacity grant program, implement an annual work plan, and other program-related tasks.
The County has contracted with local vendors to process collected green waste locally and has modified its standard contract and construction specifications to require the use of recovered organic materials in local public works projects that involve the application of compost or mulch.
Updated 11/8/2023
