State law AB 1826 requires "Mandatory Commercial Organics Recycling," meaning that California businesses must now recycle their landscape cuttings and food waste depending on the amount of waste they generate per week.

Organics are food waste and food-soiled paper waste, green wastes such as landscape and pruning waste, and nonhazardous wood waste. Organic waste is the single most disposed of material in landfills. California disposes approximately 30 million tons of waste each year, of which more than 30 percent could be used for compost or mulch. Organic waste including yard wastes and food materials are recyclable through composting, mulching, and anaerobic digestion which can produce renewable energy and fuel. In addition to recycling food scraps, donating surplus food to local food banks can be part of your AB 1826 compliance effort.

Businesses may contact the City of Irvine's recycling program for free compliance assistance please visit AB 1826 page.