SACRAMENTO — This past weekend, Governor Newsom announced the signing of Senate Bill 1046 authored by Senator John Laird (D-Santa Cruz), which strengthens California’s ability to meet its methane reduction goals by creating a program environmental impact report for the development of small and medium compost facilities.
“California is not expected to meet our methane reduction goal. Allowing for a standard environmental impact report for the development of small and medium compost facilities will allow for robust public input, and will streamline the process without sacrificing stringent environmental review,” said Senator John Laird. “Goals are nothing without meaningful strategies and implementable actions that help us meet our goals. I thank Governor Newsom for recognizing this and signing Senate Bill 1046.”
The decomposition of organic waste in landfills is a significant source of greenhouse emissions, with organic waste in landfills emitting 20% of the state’s methane, which is a climate super pollutant 84 times more potent than carbon dioxide. Recognizing the harms of methane, the state established goals to reduce landfill disposal of organic materials by 50% below 2014 levels by 2020, and 75% reductions by 2025. The state is not currently expected to meet its 2025 goal, and a lack of organics and recycling infrastructure is a contributing factor.
Small and medium compost facilities are defined by CalRecycle as facilities that handle up to 5,000 cubic yards and up to 12,500 cubic yards of materials at one time, respectively. Small and medium compost facilities can help keep the compost closer to its point of generation, which reduces emissions and degradation of other crucial infrastructure such as roads. Streamlining the process for communities to establish small and medium compost facilities will also help build local circular economies, create green collar jobs, and reduce pollution associated with transportation, while helping California meet its methane reduction goals.
Senate Bill 1046 requires CalRecycle to develop a program environmental impact report for small and medium compost facilities to streamline permitting and help the state meet its climate goals, all while maintaining California’s strong environmental standards.
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Senator John Laird represents the 17th State Senate District, which includes all of Santa Cruz and San Luis Obispo counties, the majority of Monterey County, as well as parts of Santa Clara County. More information on Senator Laird can be found here.