What if I do not want a green organics cart?
State requirements, notably SB 1383 (see https://www.calrecycle.ca.gov/Climate/SLCP/), require significant reductions in the amount of organic waste that is disposed of. Implementing weekly organics collection services for all residents and businesses is the most cost-effective way for the County, Hollister and San Juan Bautista to meet these state requirements.
Studies have shown that more than 30% of disposed material at the landfill is organic material, including food waste. Diverting food and other organic materials into your organics cart can allow you to reduce the size of your garbage cart and can save money. Please keep in mind that you can place all kinds of organic materials in your cart that includes the following:
| Food Scraps | Soiled Paper Products | Organics |
| Bread, grains and pasta | Coffee filters | Branches and brush |
| Coffee grounds | Greasy pizza boxes | Flowers and floral trimmings |
| Dairy | Paper cups and plates | Grasses and weeds |
| Eggshells | Paper bags, napkins, towels | Leaves |
| Fish and shellfish | Paper take-out boxes and containers | Tree trimmings |
| Fruit, including pits | Paper tea bags | |
| Meat, including bones | ||
| Vegetables |