Organics Recycling

The latest study of Alameda Countys trash indicates that over 40% of the materials going into our landfills are compostable. Davis Street, in conjunction with WM Earthcare, is focused on diverting food scraps and plant debris to our Organics facility. Curbside residents throughout Alameda County have access to food scraps recycling, using thee green cart for food scraps as well as yard trimmings, like grass, leaves and small tree branches. Food scraps include leftovers, bones, eggshells and meat as well as food-soiled paper like paper towels, napkins and pizza boxes.

In October 2011, we completed construction of an $11 million LEED™ (Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design) Gold organics transfer building. Among its many environmental features are a state-of-the-art biofilter to eliminate odor, high-speed rollup doors to restrict odor escape and prevent bird entry, and embankment walls built with 100% recycled aggregate. Nearly 150,000 tons of organic materials will pass through here annually en route to composting facilities.

Currently, a portion of residential organics is sent to our WM EarthCare composting facility at the Redwood Landfill in Novato. Its Homegrown Compost is listed by the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) for organic farming and carries the US Composting Council Seal of Testing Assurance. Watch the WM Earthcare video on this page to see what happens after when your organics leave the curb.

You play an important role in closing the loop on organics. It doesnt stop at composting, but rather when you introduce soil-nourishing compost back in your garden. WM EarthCare Landscape Center located at Davis Street offers locally sourced and produced 100% recycled compost, mulch and soil blends for your yard.