Republic Services opens organics pre-processing facility in California

POSTED BY: KEN MCENTEE APRIL 27, 2021

Republic Services opens organics pre-processing facility in California

Republic Services Inc. has inaugurated its first organics pre-processing facility in Northern California, marking a significant advancement in the region’s efforts to divert food and yard waste from landfills. This initiative aligns with California’s new state law, which mandates the recycling of organic waste. Located in Contra Costa County, the facility is designed to remove contaminants from food waste collected from local businesses, producing clean organic material. This material is then transformed into renewable energy through a collaboration with the East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD).

With the capability to process 20 tons of food waste per hour, this facility represents Republic Services’ commitment to enhancing recycling and sustainability practices within the environmental services sector. The processed organic material is transported to EBMUD’s wastewater treatment facility in Oakland, where it undergoes anaerobic digestion to generate biogas. This biogas is utilized to produce electricity, powering not only the treatment facility but also supporting the operations at the Port of Oakland.

This development is part of Republic Services’ broader strategy to expand its organics recycling operations across California, with a similar facility already operational in Anaheim since 2018. The move is in response to the impending state law (SB 1383), effective January 1, 2022, which will compel all Californian homes and businesses to recycle their organic waste.

The Martinez facility’s contribution to organic waste recycling is part of the Central Contra Costa Solid Waste Authority’s RecycleSmart program, which serves over 500 business customers. Republic Services’ innovative approach to recycling and its long-standing partnership with RecycleSmart have been instrumental in pushing forward recycling initiatives within the community.

Republic Services’ leadership and innovation in organics recycling were recognized in 2020 when it was named Organics Recycler of the Year by the National Waste & Recycling Association. This accolade underscores the company’s dedication to diverting food and yard waste from landfills and achieving its sustainability goal of increasing recovery of key materials from the waste stream by 40 percent by 2030. This effort not only supports the circular economy but also positions Republic Services as a key player in the transition towards a more sustainable and environmentally responsible waste management industry.

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