Alameda County Food Scrap Recycling
An Effective Practice
Description
To help meet state and county waste reduction goals, many Cities in Alameda County have begun Food Scrap Recycling Programs. Food scraps and food soiled paper are the largest single item in the waste stream, making up approximately 38% of what is thrown away in Alameda County. With food scrap recycling, food scraps become a resource, not a waste. Under the food scrap recycling program, food scraps and food soiled paper are sent to a composting facility. Instead of taking up space in the landfill, food scraps become compost, a valuable resource used by landscapers and farmers.
Goal / Mission
The goal of this program is to reduce food waste in order to achieve the ultimate Alameda County goal of a 75% landfill diversion rate by the year 2010.
Results / Accomplishments
Food Scrap Recycling Programs are now in place in nearly all cities in Alameda County. A 2004 survey of residents of Alameda County cities with established food scrap recycling programs showed that 39% of county residents were aware of the program and were participating. 36% were aware but not participating, and 26% were not aware. 43% of those who were unaware of the program said they were likely to participate.
About this Promising Practice
Organization(s)
Alameda County Waste Management Authority
Primary Contact
Topics
Environmental Health / Toxins & Contaminants
Organization(s)
Alameda County Waste Management Authority
Date of publication
2007
Date of implementation
May 2004
Geographic Type
Urban
Location
Alameda County, CA
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