Why is There Mandatory Recycling in Martinez?

Martinez Municipal Code

Martinez has been in favor of a mandatory recycling ordinance since the 1990s. Section 8.18.120 of the Martinez Municipal Code, adopted in 1993, required all "non-residential" customers to subscribe to an approved recycling collection program through an authorized recycler licensed by the City by January 1, 1995.

State Legislation

Assembly Bill ("AB") 32 identified a mandatory commercial recycling component as part of the statewide goal to achieve significant greenhouse gas emissions reductions by 2020. Subsequently, AB 341 was signed into law on October 6, 2011 to implement AB 32 for commercial recycling. Effective January 1, 2022, Senate Bill (”SB”) 1383 requires all businesses to separate organics and recyclable materials from trash and either subscribe to the required collection services or self-haul organics to an appropriate facility for diversion.  

How Does it Work?

Republic Services Franchise Agreements

In order to comply with the Mandatory Commercial Recycling Program, Martinez amended its franchise agreements with Republic Services. The City's only authorized recycler, Republic Services was granted exclusive rights to commercial and industrial recycling (with limited exceptions), establishing a one-rate system for solid waste and recycling charges. This new agreement helps to ensure effective implementation of the Mandatory Commercial Recycling Program.

To meet the education, outreach, and monitoring requirements of the new regulations, the City worked with representatives from CalRecycle and Republic Services to develop the "Mandatory Commercial Recycling Strategies" included as Exhibit F in the franchise.

How Can I Comply?

If you are a business in need of indoor recycling containers, or would like a waste audit performed at your business to see if you could save money by improving your recycling practices and reducing your garbage bill, please contact SustainabilityAdvisors@republicservices.com to schedule an on-site visit.

Further Resources

• Additional Recycling Information

For more information about the waste diversion laws, please visit the California Department of Resources, Recycling and Recovery's (CalRecycle) comprehensive webpage.

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