A new California State law, SB 1383, aims to keep food and plant materials out of landfills to reduce emissions that contribute to climate change (food scraps emit more methane than any other material in the landfill). Under the law residents must properly sort recyclable and compostable materials into the appropriate containers.

Food scraps and yard trimmings collected from curbside bins are sent to a facility where they are turned into compost, a valuable resource used by farmers and gardeners to grow food in California. Quality compost is vital to a healthy food supply, and improves soil quality, water retention, increases crop yield, and reduces the need for fertilizers and pesticides.