An act to amend Section 42652.5 of, and to add Section 40178 to, the Public Resources Code, relating to solid waste.
Impact
The bill requires the Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery, in collaboration with the State Air Resources Board, to establish regulations mandating local jurisdictions to meet solid waste diversion goals. These regulations aim to ensure that a significant portion of organic waste is diverted, with goals including recovering at least 20% of edible food from disposal by 2025. By defining pyrolysis within the context of organic waste management, AB 70 helps clarify and standardize practices that can be utilized in waste diversion efforts across the state.
Summary
Assembly Bill No. 70, introduced by Aguiar-Curry, focuses on improving organic waste diversion and biomethane production as part of California's efforts to manage solid waste sustainably. The bill amends existing regulations under the California Integrated Waste Management Act to include new provisions for pipeline biomethane derived exclusively from organic waste as eligible for meeting local waste diversion targets. This legislative action aims to address the significant amount of organic waste sent to landfills, which contributes to methane emissions—a potent greenhouse gas affecting climate change.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding AB 70 appears to be positive among environmental advocates and regulatory agencies, as it aligns with California's broader climate goals and initiatives focused on reducing methane emissions and enhancing sustainable practices. However, some stakeholders may express concern regarding the feasibility of compliance and potential financial implications for local jurisdictions, particularly in achieving the mandated diversion targets within the specified timelines.
Contention
Notable points of contention in discussions surrounding AB 70 revolve around the operationalization of the new regulations and the challenges that rural jurisdictions may face. The bill includes provisions to potentially exempt certain rural areas from compliance until 2037, recognizing unique logistical challenges. Critics may argue this delay could undermine the ambitious goals of the legislation, while supporters believe it's necessary to accommodate varying capacities of different regions to manage organic waste effectively.
An act to add amend Section 12405 to 12203 of the Public Contract Code, and to amend Sections 42920 and 42926 of the Public Resources Code, relating to solid waste.