Composting

Composting food waste reduces CO2e emissions by about 0.4 tons of CO2e compared to landfilling. StopWaste has promoted backyard and commercial composting for decades. All cities in Alameda County provide residential curbside collection of food scraps, food soiled paper and plant debris.

Under the Mandatory Recycling Ordinance, commercial compost collection is required for certain businesses and multifamily housing.

The Plant Debris Landfill Ban Ordinance prohibits disposal of plant debris in county landfills. 

Reducing Food Waste

Preventing 1 ton of food waste reduces CO2e emissions by about 2 tons. The StopFoodWaste campaign provides food planning and storage tips to help people reduce food waste at home.

StopWaste's Smart Kitchen Initiative helps mid- to high-volume food service operators in Alameda County measure and prevent food waste.

Healthy Soil

A half inch layer of compost applied to the soil sequesters about 1 ton of CO2e per hectare of applied land. StopWaste provides technical assistance and other resources to encourage its member agencies and landscape professionals to improve soil health by applying compost and mulch. StopWaste's Climate Change Adaptation Measures report lists nearly 50 healthy soils-related measures that can be incorporated in climate action plans.