City provides free kitchen compost pail to help with food waste recycling

REDLANDS, Calif – A new initiative in Redlands is now in place, requiring residents to dispose of food waste directly into the green curbside bin. 

Why it matters: This measure, effective since April 1, 2024, is a significant step towards reducing organic waste in landfills and curbing greenhouse gas emissions, in line with state law. 

Organic waste, which includes food scraps and yard trimmings, makes up half of what ends up in California landfills and emits 20% of the state's methane, according to CalRecycle.

Details: State law (SB 1383) requires cities like Redlands to provide green waste collection services to residents and businesses. The city has posted guidelines on its Solid Waste & Recycling Services webpage, including what can and cannot be placed in the green curbside bins. This includes fruits, vegetables, cheese, dairy, bread, pasta, cooked meats and fish, egg shells, plate scrapings, peels, expired foods, yard trimmings and leaves. 

Moving Forward: To help with the transition, the city is providing residents with one free kitchen compost pail per household. 

Residents can pick up a pail from Customer Service located at 35 Cajon Street, Suite 15A, during the following hours: 

• Wednesday: 8 a.m. – 11 a.m., 2 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
• Thursday: 8 a.m. – 11 a.m., 2 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
• Alternating Fridays (see city calendar): 8 a.m. – 11 a.m., 2 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

One compost pail will be provided per household. Proof of residency is required.

Update 05/16 with new office hours for Redlands Customer Service.