Advancing Sustainable Practices: A Call for Public Input on Organic Waste Management in Washington
The Washington Department of Ecology is dedicated to aiding communities in minimizing landfill contributions while fostering a sustainable future. Central to this initiative is the diversion of organic materials—including food waste and yard debris—from landfills. To assist local authorities in implementing effective organics recycling programs, our Organics Management Team has crafted model ordinances tailored for city and county governments.
Share Your Insights!
We are pleased to announce an opportunity for public engagement regarding these model ordinances. From now until January 28, 2025, we invite community members to examine these proposals and provide feedback concerning potential environmental impacts. Once the ordinances are finalized, cities and counties can choose to adopt them entirely, partially, or use them as a foundation for developing their own regulations aimed at achieving:
- Mandatory Collection of Organic Materials: Guidance will be provided for residential properties as well as specific businesses located within designated Organics Recycling Collection Areas (ORCA) and Business Organics Management Areas (BOMA).
- Development of Waste Reduction Plans: Special event permits will require plans focused on waste reduction and management.
- Design Requirements for New Developments: New buildings that anticipate generating 0.25 cubic yards per week or more of organic waste must incorporate appropriate collection designs.
The Significance of Model Ordinances
These model ordinances serve as essential tools enabling local governments to align with Washington’s Organics Management Laws under RCW 70A.205.030. They offer a standardized framework that facilitates the establishment of successful organics recycling initiatives. Local jurisdictions adopting these model rules without substantial modifications may bypass extensive evaluations required by the State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA), according to RCW 70A.207.030.
SEPA Assessment
Prior to finalizing these model ordinances, we are conducting a thorough SEPA review and actively seeking public input regarding their potential environmental ramifications. Based on our preliminary analysis, we have issued a Determination of Nonsignificance indicating that no major adverse environmental effects are anticipated from implementing these ordinances.
How You Can Contribute
Your opinions hold great value in shaping the effectiveness and adaptability of these proposed regulations within your community’s context. Participating is straightforward through three easy steps:
- Access the Project Webpage.
- Examine Relevant Documents including proposed model ordinances along with our Determination of Nonsignificance.
- Submit Your Feedback via the public comment section available on the project website; all comments should be made there directly—those received through email or other formats will also be added but should not replace online submissions.
For inquiries related to this comment period or specifics about the model ordinances, please reach out directly to Patrick Merscher at [email protected] or call him at 564-233-1065.
Let’s enhance Washington’s status in organic recycling efforts! Your insights can significantly influence effective ordinance development that supports sustainable waste management practices long into the future.
Visit our project page today—your voice matters!
