What are SB 1383 procurement targets?
Organics recycling represents a significant step toward achieving a circular economy of waste, where waste products are treated as a reusable commodity instead of destined for the landfill. The by-products of organics recycling include recoverable energy produced through the recycling process, nutrient-rich fertilizers, mulch, and compost. The use of these recovered organic waste products (ROWP) is mandated by Senate Bill 1383 as a means of “closing the loop” on organics recycling to ensure the beneficial use of these commodities throughout our communities. Cities and jurisdictions are required to meet annual procurement targets based on population. Jurisdictions can fulfill these annual standards through the use and procurement of the various recovered organic waste products.
Why are the City and EDCO offering free mulch and compost?
While the City has incorporated the use of these products into its own operations, there is further opportunity to expand this use by offering these products to our residents and businesses. This helps the City meet its procurement targets under the law, but more importantly provides an opportunity for our residents and businesses to save costs on landscaping, gardening, and growing operations. It also presents a fantastic opportunity for our community to participate in sustainable growth and landscaping operations!
How are the mulch and compost made?
The mulch is produced from 100% recycled green waste (primarily landscape trimmings) collected locally. It is an excellent option for moisture retention and erosion control and has been utilized in City Parks and for residential landscaping projects. The mulch itself is a semi-fibrous dull-brown coloration (see photos below for examples of application in City parks and residential landscaping projects).
The compost originates as digestate from the anaerobic digestion of food waste at EDCO's Anaerobic Digestion Facility, a process which produces a solid and liquid fertilizer fraction (digestate) and processes the gaseous fraction (methane) into renewable natural gas. The digestate is then used as a nutrient-rich fertilizer by a local mushroom farm, which in turn offers the resulting spent mushroom compost at no cost. This material is well-aged, biologically active, and ideal for enriching soils. For more information on the process and the compost, please see the Mountain Meadow Mushrooms Farm website.
How do I request a delivery and are there any logistical considerations for delivery?
To request a 40-yard delivery of mulch or compost, contact Logan Betz at (760) 744-5615 or loganb@edcodisposal.com. Delivery requires an overhead clearance of 20 feet (including path to delivery location). Compost and mulch, once delivered, have an approximate footprint of 10 ft x 25 ft at a height of approximately 3-5 ft.
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Minimum quantity: 40 cubic yards
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Delivery available at no charge
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Suitable for largescale landscaping, agriculture, community gardens, and soil restoration projects
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Can be distributed in smaller quantities to customers or residents through giveaway events (not for resale)
