Mandatory Commercial Recycling – AB 341
Is Your Business or Multi-family Residential Dwelling Affected?
State legislation (AB 341) mandates business’ and public entities generating four (4) cubic yards or more of waste per week, and multifamily residential dwellings with five (5) units, or more to recycle. This regulation went into effect on July 1, 2012, and it is important for business and multi-family residential dwellings to be proactive and contact their solid waste recycling service provider to ensure they are receiving the recycling services necessary to comply with AB 341.
All business’ and multifamily residential dwellings can take advantage of recycling programs provided by the City, and select any combination of the following to divert commercial solid waste from disposal:
- Subscribe to recycling services with the City of Redlands
- Arrange for the pickup of recyclable materials
- Utilize mixed-waste processing services
How is compliance monitored?
Jurisdictions (cities & counties) are required to assess whether affected generators (businesses/multifamily residential dwellings) are complying with the requirement to recycle. They are also required to identify and notify businesses that are not in compliance, and inform them of the requirement to recycle and how they can recycle.
Let Us Assist You in Establishing Your Recycling Program!
Starting a recycling program is not the same for everyone; however the first step is to assess the materials (or waste) that your business or multifamily residential dwelling generates. Then choose the right size of both trash and recycling bins that will suit your needs. Finally, and most importantly, educate your staff or tenants on the right materials for each bin. While the steps can be few, they are important.
The City’s Recycle Coordinators can assist in establishing a program, along with providing the necessary education and outreach.
Recycling Considerations: Make Your Program a Success!
Ensuring that your recycling program is successful depends on a few key elements; most importantly assistance from employees and residents. Here are a few pointers to get you started in the right direction.
- Emptying recycling bins into the proper recycling dumpster will ensure that your business or multifamily residential dwelling is doing their part to lower costs and reduce landfill waste.
- Placement of recycling cans next to trash cans increases the chances of getting more recyclables into the correct container.
- Post signage to remind employees or residents to recycle specific items (cardboard, paper, etc.). Communication is essential. Newsletters and flyers also reinforce the message.