City Spotlight: SB 1383 -- Cutting Organic Waste for a Cleaner Future

What is SB 1383?

SB 1383 is a California law passed in 2016 to reduce methane emissions and combat climate change. Its goals are:

--Cut organic waste in landfills by 50% by 2020 and 75% by 2025.

--Rescue 20% of surplus food for people in need by 2025.

--Recycle organic materials like food scraps and yard waste into useful products.

The law's rules, finalized in 2020, took effect in January 2022.

Why is SB 1383 Important?

Organic waste in landfills creates methane, a greenhouse gas 84 times more potent than carbon dioxide. It accounts for 20% of California's methane emissions and half of landfill waste. Reducing this waste lowers emissions, improves air quality, and helps fight climate change.

California is already feeling the impacts of climate change, including longer droughts, rising temperatures, frequent wildfires, stronger storms, and coastal erosion. Landfilled organic waste also releases air pollutants that harm public health, causing respiratory issues. Implementing SB 1383 can significantly reduce these environmental and health impacts.

What Can We Do?

1. Separate Organic Waste: Use green bins for food scraps and yard waste. Keep recyclables clean.

2. Reduce Food Waste: Plan meals, buy only what you need, store food properly, and compost at home if possible.

3. Donate Edible Food: Share surplus food with food banks or shelters.

4. Compost and Recycle: Participate in local programs to divert organic waste from landfills.

5. Educate Others: Spread awareness about the importance of reducing organic waste.

6. Support Local Efforts: Advocate for food recovery and organic recycling programs in your community.

By making small changes, we can help reduce methane emissions, protect our environment, and build healthier communities.

For more information, visit the City of Wasco's Website or call our Public Works office at (661)758-7271.