Recycling can be essential to waste reduction, making it mandatory by law in specific circumstances. California takes waste management very seriously, with legislators enforcing policies that require businesses to recycle organic waste when applicable. This regulation allows businesses to find diverse ways to reuse organic waste, but there can still be limitations.
The law also sets restrictions on the types of organic waste businesses can recycle. Some types can be unsafe to process within the establishment because they need facilities with special equipment to process them more efficiently and safely. For businesses, state law can limit the allowable organic wastes to the following types:
- Green waste
- Food waste
- Any waste produced by landscaping or pruning
- Wood waste considered nonhazardous
- Any paper waste contaminated by food waste
- Other types of organic waste deemed safe by local policies
Through mulching or composting, businesses can reuse them appropriately. Before taking any measures to process organic waste, it is best to check if local laws have restrictions based on the nature of the business. The rules on eligible organic waste types can be more lenient or strict depending on the circumstances.
Contributing to state-wide waste reduction efforts
Data shows that around 30% of landfill waste in California is reusable. No matter how small the business is, participating in organic waste recycling initiatives can significantly contribute to the state’s waste management overall.
Doing so also allows establishments to comply with local policies concerning organic waste. When in doubt, seeking legal counsel can help ensure the business can follow any environmental regulations and navigate any problems as they arise.