(SACRAMENTO, CA) – AB 827, a bill that helps California reach its ambitious climate goals by having restaurants and other food service provide bins for recyclables and compostable waste has been signed into law by California Governor Gavin Newsom on Wednesday, October 2, 2019. The “Green Restaurants” bill, authored by Assemblymember Kevin McCarty (D-Sacramento), helps California achieve its goal of diverting 75 percent of organic waste from landfills by 2025. AB 827 has the dual benefit of reducing greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs) by keeping more organic waste out of landfills and helping educate Californians on how to properly sort their waste.
“With the Governor’s signature, the Green Restaurants bill allows the food industry to join efforts with everyday Californians to make sure we’re doing everything we can to save our planet,” said Assemblymember Kevin McCarty (D-Sacramento), Chair of the Select Committee on Waste, Reduction & Recycling. “To address climate change, we need everyone to be part of the solution. This law will help our restaurants do their part and it will educate Californians about climate-smart habits that will benefit our planet for years to come.”
California is a leader in waste reduction and recycling, but the state will have to significantly change its behavior if it is to meet its climate goals and achieve the desired benefits of a cleaner, greener state.
"With AB 827, California leads the way on waste reduction by expanding access to recycling and composting from where we live to where we work, shop, and recreate,” said Nick Lapis, Director of Advocacy for Californians Against Waste (bill sponsor). “Consistent and widespread access to recycling and composting will lead to good recycling habits that will have ramifications throughout the solid waste system."
AB 827 will take effect in the State of California on July 1, 2020
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Kevin McCarty represents California’s 7th Assembly District, which include the cities of Sacramento, West Sacramento and unincorporated Sacramento County. McCarty serves as Chair of the Assembly Budget Subcommittee on Education Finance.