Recycling & Compost

Alameda County Organics Reduction and Recycling Ordinance

As of 2022, a new organics and recycling law went into effect in California: California State law SB 1383. This law is implemented and enforced in Alameda County under the Organics Reduction and Recycling Ordinance. View more details at Stopwaste. 

Updated in April 2019:  See "What Goes Where" in the City of Emeryville...

Check out this poster. 

China's Blue Sky and National Sword policies reduce markets for recyclables

China has set limits on recycling material they receive from the U.S. and elsewhere, reducing the amount of “contaminated” materials they will accept in bales of paper and plastic.  For more information about China's Blue Sky and National Sword Policies, go to Stopwaste

Recycling bins with check marks
Keep on recycling, most of what's in your recycling bin is still good stuff!		What to do?
Continue recycling, but keep it clean and reduce your use of paper.  China doesn't want contaminated paper and plastics.

  • Empty and wash out food and beverage containers.
  • Stop junk mail , print double-sided, sign up for paperless billing.  Junk mail with crossed-out circle overlay

 Wasted Food in Your Fridge?  Stopwaste can help!

Confused by dates on that can?  Find spoiled food in your fridge?  You are not alone!  40% of all food produced in the U.S is wasted.  Be part of the solution:
Stopwaste has resources to help you save money and food.		’Lettuce

Compost: make it happen at home

Use this Guide to Apartment and Condo Composting

Community Gardens and Composting


Alameda County Reusable Bag Ordinance

View the details, ordinance information and materials for shoppers and retailers.

 (All city and county ordinances remain in effect despite state referendum.)

Eco Foodware Ordinance