WM, provider of comprehensive environmental solutions, celebrated their one year anniversary of the organics recycling program rolled out to residents and businesses in unincorporated Nevada County and the City of Grass Valley. This program launched in alignment with California’s Short-Lived Climate Pollutants Reduction Strategy (Senate Bill 1383).
Introduced in January 2025, the program added curbside collection of food scraps and food-soiled paper to the community by WM. Since the launch, more than 12,000 tons of organic materials were diverted from landfills in the first year of the program, which aims to help California reduce greenhouse gas emissions and advance its sustainability goals.
“We’re encouraged to see the growing participation from our communities in this program,” said David Garcia, director of Public Works for Nevada County. “Diverting 12,000 tons of organic materials from landfills is a significant milestone, especially for a program still in its early stages.”
According to Alex Zalasky, WM’s district manager for Nevada County, the data shows a 24 percent increase in organics diversion since the program launched in the first quarter. “More participation means more materials are given the opportunity to be repurposed into new products,” said Zalasky. “By diverting organic waste from landfills, communities can support the production of nutrient-rich compost and help reduce the amount of material sent to landfills.”
WM also celebrates the critical role of local collaborators in the program’s success. “We are grateful for the ongoing support of Nevada County and the City of Grass Valley,” added Zalasky. “Strong collaboration with our local government has been essential in addressing challenges, educating the community and keeping the program moving forward.”
As the program enters its second year, WM will continue working with customers and county partners to further increase organics diversion, reduce contamination and help the community meet state climate goals.
Published March 2026