Elected officials along the Monterey Peninsula are gearing up for new state regulations that will require cities to reduce organic waste by 50% by year’s end and by 75% by 2024 or begin facing violations and fines. The effects of the law are important because they will require significant changes from residents and businesses alike to comply in less than three years. The good news, officials say, is Monterey is in a good position to meet the requirements.
Recently the Monterey City Council was briefed by consultants for the Monterey Regional Waste Management District outlining what the city’s various responsibilities are to comply with Senate Bill 1383 that was passed in 2016 and is now requiring action by cities and counties. It is the largest state mandate in three decades.
There are myriad components to the law, but its two primary goals are to reduce dangerous greenhouse gas emissions and to close the loop of food insecurity in regions. CalRecycle estimates that 27 million tons of organic waste are disposed of annually. This includes food waste, yard waste, lumber and paper.