HomeMy WebLinkAbout2021-12-14; City Council; Resolution 2021-291RESOLUTION NO. 2021-291
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARLSBAD,
CALIFORNIA, ACCEPTING THE COMPLETED SUSTAINABLE MATERIALS
MANAGEMENT IMPLEMENTATION PLAN, INCLUDING A ROAD MAP TO
IMPLEMENT CITY COUNCIL DIRECTION FOR NEW ENVIRONMENTAL
POLICIES AND APPROVING TWO NEW FULL-TIME STAFF POSITIONS TO
IMPLEMENT THOSE POLICIES AND AUTHORIZING $79,583 IN RELATED
FUNDING FROM THE GENERAL FUND DURING FISCAL YEAR 2021-22
EXHIBIT 1
WHEREAS, the City Council accepted the Carlsbad Community Vision in January 2010, which
identifies environmental sustainability as a core community value, and the city's General Plan adopted
in Septe~11ber 2015 includes goals and policies that promote environmental sustainability, including
ethics of conservation, waste reduction, recycling and sound procurement decisions; and
WHEREAS, on Aug. 20, 2019, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 2019-145, accepting the
Sustainable Materials Management Plan, which contains specific policies, ordinances, programs,
services, service-provider contractual requir~ments and facility capacity that the city should pursue to
ensure compliance with all solid waste regulations currently in effect, achieve compliance with all
Senate Bill (SB) 1383 requirements and establish sustainable materials management systems
throughout the city; and
WHEREAS, on Sept. 21, 2021, the City Council directed staff to draft a plan for implementing
environmental policies that include single-use plastic and expanded polystyrene foodware ordinance
and material ban throughout the city, plastic beverage bottle ban· for city facilities and city-affiliated
events, intentional balloon release ban throughout the city, and plastic bag ban throughout the city;
and
WHEREAS, current staffing resources are not adequate to implement necessary requirements
of these newly proposed environmental policies; and
WHEREAS, sufficient funding is available in the General Fund, from savings through staff
vacancies, for two new full-time equivalent positions and their associated costs for the remainder of
fiscal year 2021-22; and
WHEREAS, funding in future years will be requested during the annual budget development
process.
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City of Carlsbad
Sustainable Materials Management
Implementation Plan
12/2/21
Attachment A
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Sustainable Materials Management Implementation Plan
Table of Contents
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ........................................................................................................... 3
BACKGROUND……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….3
What is Sustainable Materials Management and Zero Waste? ............................................... 3
SMMP UPDATE – PHASE 1: COMPLIANCE WITH CURRENT REGULATIONS ............................... 6
SMMP UPDATE – PHASE 2: SB 1383 COMPLIANCE .................................................................. 7
PHASE 3, INITIATIVE A - INDIVIDUAL ACTION PLANS FOR CITY DEPARTMENTS...................... 21
Overview ................................................................................................................................. 21
Administrative Services ........................................................................................................... 23
City Hall ................................................................................................................................... 38
Community Services................................................................................................................ 42
Public Safety ............................................................................................................................ 59
Public Works ........................................................................................................................... 63
PHASE 3, INITIATIVE B – STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT ........................................................ 90
A. Overview ............................................................................................................................. 90
B. Community Survey .............................................................................................................. 90
C. Business Survey ................................................................................................................... 91
D. Ongoing Engagement Strategies ........................................................................................ 92
PHASE 3, INITIATIVE C – POLICY DEVELOPMENT ................................................................... 94
A. Overview ............................................................................................................................. 94
B. Stakeholder Input ............................................................................................................... 95
C. Approved Policies ............................................................................................................... 98
D. Recommended Policies with High Environmental Impact for Future Consideration ...... 103
E. Summary of Additional Policies for Future Consideration ............................................... 108
PHASE 3, INITIATIVE D – PUBLIC OUTREACH AND EDUCATION ........................................... 109
A. Overview ........................................................................................................................... 109
B. Sustainable Purchasing ..................................................................................................... 111
C. Reuse ................................................................................................................................. 115
E. Food Recovery ................................................................................................................... 118
F. Source Separated Materials .............................................................................................. 121
G. Hard to Handle Materials ................................................................................................. 123
H. Multiuse Programs ........................................................................................................... 124
I. Business Technical Assistance Program ............................................................................. 127
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Sustainable Materials Management Implementation Plan
Table of Contents
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TABLE OF APPENDICES
APPENDIX A. INITIATIVE A PURCHASING POLICY ................................................................. A-1
APPENDIX B. INITIATIVE C RESEARCH AND ANALYSIS ON APPROVED POLICIES .................... B-1
APPENDIX C. INITIATIVE C RESEARCH AND ANALYSIS ON RECOMMENDED POLICIES WITH
HIGH ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ................................................................. C-1
APPENDIX D. INITIATIVE C RESEARCH AND ANALYSIS ON ADDITIONAL POLICY OPTIONS FOR
FUTURE CONSIDERATION ........................................................................... D-1
APPENDIX E. INITIATIVE C BUSINESS SURVEY ...................................................................... E-1
APPENDIX F. INITIATIVE D OUTREACH, EDUCATION, AND TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
MENU ........................................................................................................ F-1
APPENDIX G. ROAD MAP FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF APPROVED POLICIES .......................... G-1
TABLE OF FIGURES
Figure 1. Estimated Ongoing FTE for Environmental Management Required ............................... 2
Figure 2. Phase 1 Update ................................................................................................................ 6
Figure 3. Overview of SB 1383 Requirements for Jurisdictions ...................................................... 7
Figure 4. Carlsbad SB 1383 Requirements and Required Resources .............................................. 8
Figure 6: Summary of Recommended Policies with High Environmental Impact . Error! Bookmark
not defined.
Figure 7: Public Opinion Survey Responses Assessing Value of Select Policies............................ 95
Figure 8: Business Survey Responses - Which of the following resources would be useful to you
in implementing a transition to reusable and/or compostable straws, cutlery, cups, food
takeout containers, and/or bags? ................................................................................................. 96
Figure 9: Business Survey Responses - For which of the following reasons would you consider
supporting a single-use plastic food service ware, water bottle, and/or material ban? ............. 96
Figure 10: Business Survey Responses - What challenges might your business face in
implementing a phase-out of single-use plastic food service ware? ........................................... 96
Figure 11: Business Survey Responses - What challenges might your business face in
implementing a phase-out of single-use plastic bags? ................................................................. 97
Figure 12: Business Survey Responses - How might your business benefit from a single-use
plastic bottles, bags, or food service ware ban? .......................................................................... 97
Figure 5: Summary of Approved Policies ...................................................................................... 99
Figure 6: Summary of Recommended Policies with High Environmental Impact ...................... 103
Figure 13. Additional Policy Options for City Council Consideration ......................................... 108
Figure 14. Recommended Public Education, Outreach, and Technical Assistance Program
Elements ..................................................................................................................................... 110
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Table of Contents
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The City of Carlsbad City Council approved a Sustainable Materials Management Plan (SMMP) in 2019,
which identified services, programs, service provider and facility arrangements, and policies that the city
should pursue as part of its sustainability and regulatory compliance objectives. The SMMP envisions
developing a detailed Sustainable Materials Management Implementation Plan (Implementation Plan)
that reflects the goals and actions of the SMMP. The SMMP also notes that “additional resources,
including staffing and funding will be needed to complete the SMM Plan Phases.” As approved, the SMMP
phases are:
• Phase 1: Ensure compliance with all state solid waste regulations currently in effect.
• Phase 2: Achieve regulatory compliance with all Senate Bill (SB) 1383 regulations, which largely take
effect on January 1, 2022.
• Phase 3: Establish sustainable materials management systems throughout Carlsbad.
This Implementation Plan includes an update on the city’s progress in meeting Phase 1 and Phase 2 SMMP
objectives, as well as a detailed roadmap for achieving the objectives of Phase 3. The roadmap for
achieving Phase 3 of the SMMP is separated into four initiatives:
• Initiative A. Individual Action Plans for City Departments: The SMMP calls for the city to demonstrate
sustainable materials management leadership within city government. This Implementation Plan
includes individual action plans that identify opportunities in all city departments based on
assessments from city department meetings and building audits. These action plans compliment
updates to the city’s Environmentally Preferable Purchasing Policy currently underway.
• Initiative B. Stakeholder Engagement: The SMMP calls for the city to incorporate stakeholder input
into the implementation of the SMMP. This Initiative summarizes stakeholder engagement conducted
to date to inform the development of this Implementation Plan, along with recommended strategies
for ongoing stakeholder engagement.
• Initiative C. Policy Development: Initiative C of this Implementation Plan recommends policies for
City Council to approve, based on research and analysis of various approaches to each policy area and
material type, and an evaluation of the effectiveness, feasibility, cost, and impact of each option.
• Initiative D. Public Outreach and Education: The SMMP calls for the city to expand its current public
education and outreach efforts into a comprehensive Sustainable Materials Management Public
Education, Outreach, and Technical Assistance Program. Initiative D of the Implementation Plan
includes recommended education, outreach, and technical assistance channels, as well as program
components, schedule, and guidance.
In each of the above components, the relevant ties are identified to Upstream Design and Production,
Consumption and Use, and End-of-Life Management, as directed by the SMMP. This Implementation Plan
is a working document to be reviewed and updated as new technologies, opportunities, and challenges
arise. In developing this Implementation Plan, careful consideration was given to the potential
effectiveness, feasibility, and level of community support for each recommendation. Estimates for staffing
and funding required to meet SMMP objectives have been completed by HF&H Consultants and detailed
in this Implementation Plan. An overview of the analysis is provided in Figure 1.
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Executive Summary
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Figure 1. Estimated Ongoing FTE for Environmental Management Required
Note: Full-time equivalent (FTE) estimated requirements are above current staffing levels.
Phase 1: Compliance with Current Regulations Additional FTE Required
Ensure compliance with existing regulations (e.g., AB 939, 1594, and
1826) N/A
Phase 1 Subtotal N/A
Phase 2: SB 1383 Compliance Additional FTE Required
Collection Requirements 0.25
Food Recovery Requirements 1
Education and Outreach Requirements 0.25
Procurement of Recycled Organic Products Requirements 1
Capacity Planning Requirements 0.5
Enforcement Requirements 1
Recordkeeping and Reporting Requirements 0.25
Phase 2 Subtotal 4.25
Phase 3, Initiative A: City Department Individual Action Plans Additional FTE Required
Recommended department actions Departments to
determine
Phase 3, Initiative A Subtotal N/A
Phase 3, Initiative B: Stakeholder Engagement Additional FTE Required
Ongoing stakeholder engagement N/A – Existing resources
Phase 3, Initiative B Subtotal N/A
Phase 3, Initiative C: Develop Policies Additional FTE Required
Material Ban: Single-Use Plastic & Expanded Polystyrene Food Service Ware 1.3
Material Ban: Single-Use Plastic Beverage Bottles (city facilities/events only) 0.3
Material Ban: Plastic Bags 0.5
Disposal Ban: Construction & Demolition (C&D) Debris 1
Disposal Ban: Carpet 0.8
Disposal Ban: Mattresses 0.2
Disposal Ban: Textiles 0.5
Phase 3, Initiative C Subtotal 4.6
Phase 3, Initiative D: Public Outreach and Education Additional FTE Required
Public Outreach and Education Implementation
N/A – Integrated in
Phase 2 and Phase 3
estimates
Phase 3, Initiative D Subtotal N/A
TOTAL ADDITIONAL FTE REQUIRED 8.85
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DRAFT Sustainable Materials Management Implementation Plan
Background
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BACKGROUND
What is Sustainable Materials Management and Zero Waste?
Zero waste has been defined differently by various entities. The Zero Waste International Alliance’s
definition of zero waste, last updated on December 20, 2018, is “the conservation of all resources by
means of responsible production, consumption, reuse, and recovery of products, packaging, and materials
without burning and with no discharges to land, water, or air that threaten the environment or human
health.” A “zero waste goal” is often defined as an outcome of at least 90% diversion. However, in order
for such a zero-waste goal to be achievable, a community must have a sustainable materials management
system in place.
Sustainable materials management is a systematic approach to using and reusing materials more
productively over their entire life cycles, where waste from one activity becomes the resource for another.
Sustainable materials management seeks to reduce the consumption of raw (virgin) materials in the
production of new materials and products, minimize the generation of materials (source reduction),
maximize the productive use of materials that are generated by reusing and/or repurposing those
materials, and then minimize the amount of materials that are ultimately disposed when they reach the
end of their useful life. Under this system, once a product reaches its end of life (i.e., it has no additional
reuse potential), recycling and composting should first be attempted, followed by recovery for energy,
and, as a last resort, safe disposal to landfill. Sustainable materials management represents a fundamental
shift from waste management to materials management, conserves natural resources, and reduces the
emission of greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change.
The City of Carlsbad has focused its approach on the process-based goal of developing a sustainable
materials management system as a means to achieve the outcome of zero waste.
Sustainability in the City of Carlsbad
The City of Carlsbad’s City Council has adopted the Environmental Guiding Principles that, among other
principles, include the following:
• Waste reduction and recycling: Support for programs that manage the overall waste stream of the
city and that maximize the amount of waste that is recycled by its residents, citizens, and businesses.
The city promotes the ability to quickly and conveniently dispose of hazardous waste.
• Sound procurement decisions: The procurement of products and services by the city, its residents,
businesses, and institutions results in environmental, social, and economic impacts both in this region
and the country. Where possible, the City of Carlsbad’s procurement systems should support the use
of recycled materials and products with low carbon footprints (low use of carbon or GHG producing
products in the manufacture, installation, maintenance, or disposal of the product).
Additionally, the City of Carlsbad’s General Plan cites “sustainability” as one of its core values, calling for
building the city’s sustainability initiatives to emerge as a leader in green development and sustainability.
On the path to this sustainability leadership, City Council approved the SMMP in 2019 to identify specific
policies and ordinances, programs and services, service provider contractual requirements, and facility
capacity that Carlsbad should pursue to achieve its sustainable materials management objectives.
The SMMP is organized into the following three phases:
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Background
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• Phase 1: Ensure compliance with all state solid waste
regulations currently in effect.
• Phase 2: Achieve regulatory compliance with all SB 1383
regulations, which largely takes effect on January 1,
2022.
• Phase 3: Establish sustainable materials management
systems throughout Carlsbad.
Within Phase 3 of the SMMP, actions were recommended
under the framework of Upstream Design and Production,
Consumption and Use, and End-of-Life Management, as
shown in the graphic to the right.
Phase 3 Actions Recommended in the
SMMP
Upstream Design & Production
• Sustainable Procurement
- Adopt a city government best practice Sustainable Materials Purchasing and Procurement
Policy.
• Material Bans | Disposal Bans
- Material Bans ‐ Evaluate and adopt appropriate material bans (e.g., single‐use plastics,
disposable food ware packaging).
- Disposal Bans ‐ Ban the disposal of green waste and C&D debris at the Palomar Transfer Station,
and through the city’s residential and commercial collection systems.
• Product Stewardship | Take‐Back Ordinances
- Consider adopting take‐back ordinances for products that are difficult or costly to manage.
• Advocate for product stewardship and extended producer responsibility (EPR).
Consumption & Use
• Source Reduction
- Identify and realize waste prevention opportunities in all city government departments.
- Support waste prevention opportunities throughout Carlsbad.
• Material Reuse
- Identify and realize material reuse opportunities in all city government departments.
- Support the expansion of a reuse economy throughout Carlsbad.
• Sustainable Materials Market Development
- Identify and realize opportunities for city government’s use of sustainably produced materials in
place of products made from raw materials.
- Support the development of markets for sustainably produced products throughout Carlsbad.
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DRAFT Sustainable Materials Management Implementation Plan
Background
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End‐of‐Life Management
• Diversion Programs
- Maximize the diversion of commercial recyclables.
- Maximize the diversion of green waste.
- Maximize the diversion of C&D debris.
- Develop prioritized list of other materials to target for sustainable management.
- Summarize recommended actions for managing those materials for review by the City Council
and implement approved management strategies.
- Expand recycling and organic waste collection in city controlled public areas and venues.
• Regional Advocacy and Support
- Advocate for and support the implementation of the county’s Food Donation Action Plan for the
San Diego Region and pursue enhancements to Carlsbad’s food security infrastructure in
conjunction with the development of the city’s required SB 1383 edible food recovery program.
- Advocate for and support the development of regional markets and processing capacity for hard
to recycle materials for which markets and processing capacity does not currently exist.
- Advocate for and support the development of additional local and regional organic material
processing capacity sufficient to manage all of the organic material generated in Carlsbad and
San Diego County.
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DRAFT Sustainable Materials Management Implementation Plan
SMMP Update – Phase 1: Compliance with Current Regulations
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SMMP UPDATE – PHASE 1: COMPLIANCE WITH CURRENT
REGULATIONS
This section reviews Phase 1 actions identified in the SMMP, the city’s progress to date on these actions,
and the recommended next steps in completing each action item.
The following actions were recommended in the SMMP to ensure compliance with state solid waste
regulations currently in effect, such as Assembly Bill (AB) 939, AB 1594, and AB 1826.
Figure 2. Phase 1 Update
Action Item Status Next Steps
Compost green waste that the city’s contract
hauler collects or deliver it to an Anaerobic
Digestion facility for Processing (AB 939 and AB
1594):
• Secure processing capacity for the city’s
green waste.
• Compost or anaerobically digest the green
waste that the city’s contract hauler
collects.
• Secure required commercial organics
processing capacity through regional solid
waste management service providers.
In progress Monitor hauler
compliance with
requirements once
new franchise
agreement terms
commence.
Process the construction and demolition (C&D)
debris that the city’s contract hauler collects
for recovery of targeted materials (AB 939 and
CALGreen).
In progress
New franchise agreement
signed that will require
hauler to meet these
requirements.
Monitor hauler and
PTS operator
compliance with
requirements once
new franchise
agreement term
commences.
Provide commercial organic waste collection
services to all commercial covered generators
(AB 1826).
In progress
New franchise agreement
signed that will require
hauler to meet these
requirements.
Monitor hauler
compliance with
requirements once
new franchise
agreement term
commences.
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DRAFT Sustainable Materials Management Implementation Plan
SMMP Update – Phase 2: SB 1383 Compliance
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SMMP UPDATE – PHASE 2: SB 1383 COMPLIANCE
On September 19, 2016, Governor Brown signed into law SB 1383 (Chapter 395, Statutes of 2016) that
established methane emissions reduction targets in an effort to reduce emissions of short-lived climate
pollutants. SB 1383 is the most significant waste reduction mandate to be adopted in California in the last
30 years. This legislation requires a statewide organic waste (food waste, green waste, food-soiled paper
products, etc.) disposal reduction of 75% by the year 2025. The mandated percentage reduction equates
to 20 million tons of organic waste generated within the state. SB 1383 also sets a goal of recovering 20%
of edible food for human consumption by 2025. This bill authorizes the state’s Department of Resources
Recycling and Recovery (CalRecycle) to adopt regulations to achieve these targets which will take effect
on January 1, 2022.
On August 20, 2019, City Council received an informational presentation from CalRecycle on the
requirements placed on the city by SB 1383, as summarized in the figure below. SB 1383 will require
extensive procedural changes and significant coordination amongst different stakeholders. Non-
compliance with any of these programs could result in enforcement actions, including the city’s payment
of monetary fines, as specified in 14 CCR Section 18997.2.
Figure 3. Overview of SB 1383 Requirements for Jurisdictions
Source: CalRecycle
Current staffing resources are not adequate to implement the new programs associated with SB 1383 in
a manner that meets compliance as required by CalRecycle. The staffing resources have been estimated
by HF&H consultants based on a benchmarking review of resource requirements for jurisdictions of similar
population and structure. HF&H Consultants estimates a staffing requirement of 3.5 – 4.0 full-time
equivalent (FTE) for the implementation year of Phase 2, and 1.8 – 3.5 FTE for each subsequent year.
The below table details the city’s required actions under SB 1383, California Code of Regulations reference
(i.e., code section 18984), current compliance status, and additional resources required.
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SMMP Update – Phase 2: SB 1383 Compliance
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Figure 4. Carlsbad SB 1383 Requirements and Required Resources
I. Collection Requirements
ADDITIONAL FTE REQUIREMENT: 0.25 FTE Status Notes
Provide organic waste collection services
(including collection of paper) to all generators
except for those granted an applicable waiver by
the city (18984.1-18984.3, 18984.9).
In Progress
Hauler requirement in new
franchise agreement
effective July 1, 2022.
Disallow use of organic wastes as alternative
daily cover or alternative intermediate cover at
a landfill (18983.1.a).
In Progress
Green waste currently sent
to approved processing
facility; organic waste
collected through new
franchise agreement to be
sent to approved processing
facility.
Deliver green container and blue container
materials to a facility, operation, or activity that
is deemed to constitute reduction in landfill
disposal (18983.1.b).
In Progress
Hauler requirement in new
franchise agreement
effective July 1, 2022.
Reduce contamination through contamination
monitoring: conduct route reviews of containers
for contaminants such that all routes are
inspected annually (18984.5.b).
In Progress
Hauler requirement in new
franchise agreement
effective July 1, 2022.
Notify generators with contamination of proper
material separation requirements (18984.5.b). In Progress
Hauler requirement in new
franchise agreement
effective July 1, 2022.
Provide collection containers to generators that
comply with color and labeling requirements
when replacing containers at the end of their
useful life or by January 1, 2036, whichever
comes first (18984.7).
In Progress
Hauler requirement in new
franchise agreement
effective July 1, 2022.
Label or imprint all new containers with SB 1383
compliant labeling, commencing January 1, 2022
(18984.8).
In Progress
Hauler requirement in new
franchise agreement
effective July 1, 2022.
Allow limited commercial waivers for de minimis
volumes and physical space constraints,
maintain records of waivers, and verify these
waivers at least every 5 years from date of
issuance (18984.11, 18995.1.a.6).
In Progress
De Minimis and Physical
Space Waivers detailed in
new Franchise Agreement
and in drafted SB 1383
ordinance.
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SMMP Update – Phase 2: SB 1383 Compliance
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II. Food Recovery Requirements
ADDITIONAL FTE REQUIREMENT: 1 FTE Status Notes
Implement food recovery program that educates
Tier One and Two commercial edible food
generators and increases access to edible food
recovery (18991.1).
In Progress –
Contract
Food recovery program
development in coordination
with county.
Implement an edible food recovery program that
increases access to food recovery organizations
and services (18991.1). Planning –
Staffing needed
to fully
implement
Food recovery program
assessment. No capacity for
implementation with current
staffing levels.
Staffing needed to fully
implement this requirement.
Assess food recovery capacity and increase if
capacity is insufficient (18991.1). Planning -
Staffing needed
to fully
implement
Assessing food recovery
capacity.
Staffing needed to fully
implement this requirement.
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SMMP Update – Phase 2: SB 1383 Compliance
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III. Education and Technical Outreach
Requirements
ADDITIONAL FTE REQUIREMENT: 0.25 FTE
Status Notes
By February 1, 2022, annually provide generators
with information on properly separating
materials, organic waste prevention, on-site
recycling, methane reduction benefits, how to
recycle organic waste, a list of approved haulers,
and information related to edible food donation
(18985.1.a).
In Progress
Hauler requirement in new
franchise agreement
effective July 1, 2022. City to
design program, and Hauler
to produce and distribute
materials.
Annually inform self-haulers of requirements to
separate and deliver organics to a facility that
processes source separated organics or deliver
mixed organics to a high diversion facility; and,
for commercial self-haulers, inform of recording
keeping requirements (18988.3, 18985.1.a.7).
In Progress
Education and outreach
under development.
Consistent with Section 7295 of the Government
Code, jurisdictions shall translate educational
materials required by this chapter into any non-
English language spoken by a substantial number
of the public provided organic waste collection
services by the jurisdiction (18985.1.e).
Not Started
Hauler requirement in new
franchise agreement
effective July 1, 2022. City to
design program, and Hauler
to produce and distribute
materials.
Annually provide Tier One and Two commercial
edible food generators with information
regarding the city's edible food recovery program,
generator requirements, food recovery
organizations, and edible food source-reduction
information (18985.2).
In Progress
Hauler requirement in new
franchise agreement
effective July 1, 2022. City to
design program, and Hauler
to produce and distribute
materials.
By February 1, 2022, develop and a list of food
recovery organizations and services and maintain
it on jurisdiction's website. Update the list
annually (18985.2).
Not Started
Initial list developed.
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SMMP Update – Phase 2: SB 1383 Compliance
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IV. Procurement of Recycled Organic Products
Requirements
ADDITIONAL FTE REQUIREMENT: 1 FTE
Status Notes
Procure a quantity of recovered organic waste
products, such as compost, renewable gas, or
electricity from biomass, that meets or exceeds
the organic waste product procurement target
determined by CalRecycle based on jurisdiction's
population (18993.1).
Planning -
Staffing needed
to fully
implement
New franchise agreement
effective July 1, 2022,
requires franchisee to
provide city with a quantity
of organic waste product
that meets SB 1383
requirements.
Staff needed to monitor
compliance with this
requirement.
Procure paper products, and printing and writing
paper consistent with the requirements of
Section 22150-22154 of the Public Contracts
Code, which requires purchase of paper products
that consist of at least 30% by fiber weight,
postconsumer fiber, where cost competitive.
These paper products shall be eligible to be
labeled with an unqualified recyclable label as
defined in 16 C.F.R. 260.12. Jurisdiction shall
require all businesses that it purchases paper
products and printing/writing paper to certify
minimum percentage of postconsumer material
in the paper products. Purchase recycled paper
products consistent with Public Contract Code
that consist of at least 30% by fiber weight,
postconsumer fiber (18993.3 and 18982.a.61).
Planning -
Staffing needed
to fully
implement
City Policy 49 requires a 15%
preference, not to exceed
$1,000 per contract, to
recycled content products,
including recycled content
paper. Development of
recordkeeping systems to
demonstrate compliance
with SB 1383 is underway.
Staff needed to monitor
compliance with this
requirement.
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SMMP Update – Phase 2: SB 1383 Compliance
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V. Capacity Planning Requirements
ADDITIONAL FTE REQUIREMENT: 0.5 FTE Status Notes
Support county in organic waste recycling and
edible food recovery capacity planning and
reporting required by SB 1383.
In Progress
Capacity planning in
coordination with county.
If existing and planned edible food recovery
capacity is insufficient, jurisdictions with
insufficient capacity shall submit an
implementation schedule (including timelines and
milestones) demonstrating how capacity will be
secured by the end of the reporting period, and
shall consult with edible food recovery
organizations (18992.2.c.).
Planning -
Staffing needed
to fully
implement
Assessing food recovery
capacity.
Staffing needed to fully
implement this requirement.
Secure required commercial organics processing
capacity through regional solid waste management
service providers. In Progress
New Franchise Agreement
effective July 1, 2022,
requires haulers to have a
capacity guarantee.
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VI. Enforcement Requirements
ADDITIONAL FTE REQUIREMENT: 1 FTE Status Notes
Adopt enforceable ordinance or similar mechanism
requiring generators, haulers, and food recovery
organizations and services to comply with SB 1383
regulations (18981.2.a).
In Progress
Ordinance drafted for City
Council approval.
Implement inspection and compliance program for
organic waste generators by January 1, 2022
(18995.1.a).
In Progress
Ordinance drafted for City
Council approval establishes
inspection authority.
Implement inspection and compliance program for
edible food generators and food recovery
organizations and services by January 1, 2022
(18995.1.a).
Planning -
Staffing needed
to fully
implement
levels
Ordinance drafted for City
Council approval establishes
inspection authority.
Staffing needed to fully
implement this requirement.
Take enforcement actions against non-compliant
entities, including issuing notices of offenses and
penalties equivalent to those outlined in Article 16
after January 1, 2024 (18995.1.a.5, 18995.4,
18997.2).
Planning -
Staffing needed
to fully
implement
levels
Enforcement actions
required by SB 1383 included
in draft ordinance for City
Council approval.
Staffing needed to fully
implement this requirement.
Investigate and maintain records of all complaints
received (18995.3). Not Started Pending receipt of
complaints.
Issue Notices of Violation and impose penalties for
non-compliant generators, haulers, self-haulers,
commercial edible food generators, or other
regulated entities.
Not Started –
Staffing needed
to fully
implement
levels
Pending commencement of
enforcement action.
Staffing needed to fully
implement this requirement.
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VII. Recordkeeping and Reporting Requirements
ADDITIONAL FTE REQUIREMENT: 0.25 FTE
Status Notes
By April 1, 2022, file an initial compliance report
containing the ordinance(s) adopted, the date when
containers will comply with color standards in Section
18984.7, and the reporting items listed in the annual
reporting Section 18994.2 (18994.1).
In Progress
Reporting system in
development.
Commencing August 1, 2022, and annually thereafter,
submit an annual report to CalRecycle regarding the
jurisdiction's compliance and implementation with the
areas listed in Sections 18994.2.b-18994.2k. (18994.2).
In Progress
Reporting system in
development.
Maintain all implementation records in a central
location (physical or electronic) that can be made
available to or accessed by CalRecycle within 10
business days (18995.2 and 18995.2.c).
In Progress
Reporting system in
development.
Report the following relative to the organic waste
collection requirements outlined in Article 3:
• The type of organic waste collection service(s)
provided.
• The total number of generators receiving each type
of collection service.
• If a jurisdiction implements a program that requires
use of a high diversion organic waste processing
facility, the jurisdiction shall list organic waste
processing facilities utilized.
• If a jurisdiction allows placement of compostable
plastic bags in containers, identify the facility that
notified the jurisdiction that it accepts and recovers
this material.
• If a jurisdiction allows placement of plastic bags in
organic waste containers pursuant to Sections
18984.1 and 18984.2, identify the facility that
notified the jurisdiction that it accepts and removes
plastic bags when it recovers source separated
organic waste.
In Progress
Reporting system in
development.
Report the following relative to the contamination
monitoring requirements of Article 3:
• The number of route reviews conducted.
• Number of times notices, violations, or targeted
education materials were issued.
• The results of waste composition studies
performed to meet the container contamination
minimization requirements and the number of
resulting targeted route reviews.
In Progress
Reporting system in
development.
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VII. Recordkeeping and Reporting Requirements
ADDITIONAL FTE REQUIREMENT: 0.25 FTE
Status Notes
Report the following relative to its implementation of
waivers pursuant to Article 3:
• Number of days an emergency circumstances
waiver was in effect.
• Tons of organic waste disposed as a result of
aforementioned waiver, except disaster and
emergency waivers granted in Section 18984.13(b).
• Number of generators issued a de-minimis waiver.
• Number of generators issued a physical space
waiver.
• Number of generators issued any other waiver
pursuant to Article 18984.12.
In Progress
Reporting system in
development.
Report the following regarding education and outreach:
• Number of organic waste and edible food
generators that received education and outreach,
as well as the type of education and outreach
conducted.
In Progress
Reporting system in
development.
Report the following regarding its implementation of
hauler oversight:
• Number of haulers approved to collect organic
waste in the jurisdiction.
• The Recycling and Disposal Reporting System
number of each facility receiving organic waste
from the jurisdiction.
• Number of haulers that have had their approval
revoked or denied.
In Progress
Reporting system in
development.
Report the number of C&D removal activities
conducted in compliance with Section 18989.1 related
to CALGreen and the number of projects subject to
Section 18989.2 related to Model Water Efficient
Landscape Ordinance.
In Progress
Reporting system in
development.
Report the following regarding its implementation of
edible food recovery:
• Number of commercial edible food generators
within jurisdiction.
• Number of recovery organizations and services
located and operating within the jurisdiction that
contract with commercial edible food generators
for food recovery.
• The total pounds of edible food recovered by food
recovery organizations and services.
In Progress
Reporting system in
development.
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VII. Recordkeeping and Reporting Requirements
ADDITIONAL FTE REQUIREMENT: 0.25 FTE
Status Notes
Report the following regarding its implementation of
compliance, monitoring, and enforcement as specified
in Articles 14 - 16:
• Number of commercial businesses included in a
compliance review performed by jurisdictions and
number of violations found and corrected through
compliance reviews.
• Number of route reviews conducted by the
jurisdiction or designee.
• Number of inspections conducted by type for
commercial edible food generators, food recovery
organizations, and commercial businesses.
• Number of complaints received and investigated,
and number of Notices of Violation issued based on
such complaints.
• Number of “Notice of Violations” issued by entity
type (generator, hauler, edible food generator).
• Number of penalty orders issued by entity type
(generator, hauler, edible food generator).
• Number of enforcement actions that were resolved
by type of regulated entity.
In Progress
Reporting system in
development.
Include the following information regarding container
contamination minimization in their implementation
records:
• Description of process for determining
contamination levels.
• Documentation of route reviews (including dates).
• Documentation of waste composition studies
performed pursuant to Section 18984.5 (including
dates of studies, location of solid waste facility
where study was performed, routes, source sector,
number of samples, weights and ratios of
prohibited container contaminants, and total
sample size).
• Copies of all notices and enforcement orders issued
or taken against generators with prohibited
container contaminants.
• Documentation of the number of containers
disposed due to observation of prohibited
container contaminants.
In Progress
Reporting system in
development.
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VII. Recordkeeping and Reporting Requirements
ADDITIONAL FTE REQUIREMENT: 0.25 FTE
Status Notes
Include in implementation records:
• A copy of all correspondence received from a
facility that triggered a Processing Facility
Temporary Equipment or Operational Failure
Waiver and documentation setting forth the date
of issuance of the waiver, the timeframe for the
waiver, and the locations or routes affected by the
waiver.
• A description of the jurisdiction’s process for
issuing waivers and frequency of inspection
verifying waivers.
• A copy of all waivers, including location, date and
name of generator.
• Record of the amount of sediment debris disposed
on an annual basis.
• Record of amount of solid waste removed from
removed homeless encampments and illegal
disposal sites (if tonnage exceeds 100 tons).
• A copy of all compliance agreements for
quarantined organic waste that is disposed.
In Progress
Reporting system in
development.
Report the following regarding its procurement of
recovered organics:
• Amount of each recycled organic waste product
procured by the jurisdiction or through direct
service providers.
• If jurisdiction purchases an adjusted amount of
recovered organic waste products in accordance
with Section 18993.1.(j), they must provide the
total amount of transportation fuel, electricity, and
gas for heating applications procured during the
year prior to the reporting period.
In Progress
Reporting system in
development.
Maintain an Implementation Record containing
information and documents specified in the regulations
in a central location (physical or electronic) that can be
accessed by the Department within 10 business days.
All information shall be retained for five years.
In Progress
Reporting system in
development.
If a jurisdiction designates another entity as allowed in
18981.2, the jurisdiction shall include copies of all
agreements and contracts in the Implementation
Record required by Section 18995.2. Jurisdictions are
not authorized to delegate their authority to impose
civil penalties to a private entity.
In Progress
Reporting system in
development.
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VII. Recordkeeping and Reporting Requirements
ADDITIONAL FTE REQUIREMENT: 0.25 FTE
Status Notes
Include all relevant documents supporting compliance
with the edible food recovery and education
requirements outlined in Section 18985.2, including:
copies of information provided to generators,
distribution method, date and who was contacted.
In Progress
Reporting system in
development.
Maintain records including, but not limited to:
• Ordinances, contracts, franchise agreements,
policies, procedures, or programs.
• Description of hauler program, including: type of
hauler system(s), type and conditions of approvals,
criteria for approvals, process for issuing, revoking
or denying approvals, requirements associated with
back-hauling or self-hauling.
• A record of hauler compliance, including: copies of
all reports required of haulers, copies of all
approvals, denials and revocations.
In Progress
Reporting system in
development.
Document the steps taken related to the food recovery
program to:
• Educate commercial edible food generators.
• Increase access to edible food recovery
organizations and services.
• Monitor edible food generator compliance.
A jurisdiction shall also include:
• A list of commercial edible food generators that
have arrangements with edible food recovery
organizations or services.
• A list of edible recovery organizations in the
jurisdiction and their capacity.
• Documentation of actions taken to increase edible
food recovery capacity.
In Progress
Reporting system in
development.
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VII. Recordkeeping and Reporting Requirements
ADDITIONAL FTE REQUIREMENT: 0.25 FTE
Status Notes
Counties, in coordination with cities and regional
agencies located within the county shall conduct
capacity planning requirements as outlined in Section
18992.1 and 18992.2 and report to CalRecycle on the
following schedule:
• August 1, 2022 – report on the period covering
January 1, 2022 through December 31, 2024
• August 1, 2024 – report on the period covering
January 1, 2025 through December 31, 2024
• August 1, 2029 – report on the period covering
January 1, 2030 through December 31, 2039
• August 1, 2034 – report on the period covering
January 1, 2035 through December 31, 2044
In Progress
Reporting system in
development.
Include in the implementation record all documents
supporting compliance with recovered organic waste
procurement targets, including but not limited to:
• Description of how the jurisdiction will comply.
• Name, location, and contact information of each
entity, operation, or facility from whom the
recovered organics are procured, as well as general
description of how product was used and if
applicable, where the product was applied.
• All invoices evidencing purchases.
• If a jurisdiction procures recovered organic waste
through a direct service provider, include records of
all organic waste product procurement made on
the jurisdiction’s behalf.
• If a jurisdiction procures renewable gas from a
POTW or electricity from a biomass conversion
facility, include written certification (under penalty
of perjury) that the recovered organic waste
products are compliant with Section 18993.1.
• If a jurisdiction utilizes an adjusted organic waste
product procurement target, provide records
evidencing the jurisdiction’s ability to utilize a
reduced target.
In Progress
Reporting system in
development.
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VII. Recordkeeping and Reporting Requirements
ADDITIONAL FTE REQUIREMENT: 0.25 FTE
Status Notes
Include in the implementation record all documents
supporting compliance with recycled content paper
procurement, including, but not limited to:
• Copies of invoices, receipts, or other proof of
purchase that describe the procurement of paper
products by volume and type for all purchases.
• Copies of certifications as required under Section
18993.3.
In Progress
Reporting system in
development.
Phase 2: SB 1383 Compliance Summary
TOTAL ESTIMATED ADDITIONAL FTE REQUIRED: 4.25
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 34 of 255
DRAFT Sustainable Materials Management Implementation Plan
Phase 3, Initiative A - Individual Action Plans for City Departments
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PHASE 3, INITIATIVE A - INDIVIDUAL ACTION PLANS FOR CITY
DEPARTMENTS
Overview
Background
The Sustainable Materials Management Plan (SMMP) calls for the city to demonstrate sustainable
materials management leadership within city government. This Sustainable Materials Management
Implementation Plan (Implementation Plan) includes, in this Initiative A section, individual action plans
that identify specific waste prevention, material reuse, and sustainable purchasing opportunities in all city
departments based on assessments from city department meetings and building audits. Each department
should be provided with technical assistance from the Sustainable Materials Management Division in
implementing the actions recommended in the action plans. Departments will require additional
resources (staffing and financial) in order to implement the recommended actions. The performance
targets proposed in the Sustainable Materials Management Plan for city government operations are as
follows:
• The percentage of materials, by major material type, that are reused or have post‐consumer content:
- 50% by 2022
- 100% by 2025
• Percentage of paper products from post‐consumer content:
- 100% by 2022
• Percentage of paper with 100% post‐consumer content:
- 50% by 2022
- 100% by 2025
• Tons of Recovered Organic Waste Product utilized:
- 1,000 tons by 2022
- 5,000 tons by 2025
• Individual City Department Diversion Rates
- 50% Diversion Rate by 2022
- 75% Diversion Rate by 2025
These action plans compliment an Environmentally Preferable Purchasing Policy, a draft of which is
included in Appendix A, that promotes sustainable materials management and compliance with California
State Senate Bill 1383 regulations regarding procurement of organic waste products and recycled content
paper.
Structure of Individual Action Plans
This Implementation Plan includes individual action plans for five city branches - Administrative Services,
City Hall, Community Services, Public Safety, and Public Works - that describe current sustainable material
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 35 of 255
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Phase 3, Initiative A - Individual Action Plans for City Departments
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management practices, short and long term recommended steps to improve these practices, and policies
that apply to the recommendations detailed in this document.
Each department’s action plan is divided into the following two sections:
• “Existing Conditions/Practices”: This section provides a narrative description of the practices relevant
to sustainable materials management observed in the applicable department during department
visits and discussions.
• “Implementation Strategy”: This section includes a table of recommended potential actions
organized by SMM element (Upstream Design and Production, Consumption and Use, and End-of-Life
Management) and by SMM goal.
- Recommended actions are in a checklist labeled as follows:
= Minimum Action: action supports alignment with policies and regulations
= Customary Practice: action is practiced by other departments / jurisdictions
= Leader: action shows leadership in Sustainable Materials Management
In many scenarios, minimum action, customary practice, and leader recommendations can be
implemented simultaneously. Departments can determine which Customary Practice and
Leader actions are feasible based on resources available.
- “Implementation / Resourcing Tips” are suggestions for ensuring adequate resources are
dedicated to completing the recommended actions.
Reporting Requirements
Each department or division in the City of Carlsbad must provide SMM staff with an annual update of the
progress on the SMM actions identified in their action plan, and any additional relevant actions by the
date determined by SMM staff. Using the “Implementation Strategy” table provided in this
Implementation Plan, each department/division must, at a minimum, check the box of each action they
currently take and include a brief narrative description of each/all/additional actions taken in the past
year in the “Annual Report Notes” section. All previous year’s reporting is due May 1 of each year.
Furthermore, any department/division procuring organic waste products and/or paper products must
provide purchasing records using the reporting template provided by SMM staff to demonstrate the city’s
compliance with SB 1383 requirements.
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Phase 3, Initiative A - Individual Action Plans for City Departments
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Administrative Services
Finance, Human Resources, Information Technology, Innovation & Economic Development
Finance
Existing Conditions and Practices
City Policy 49 requires the purchase and use of recycled products except when such use negatively impacts
health, safety or operational efficiency. The city gives a 15% preference, not to exceed $1,000 per
contract, to recycled content products. The procurement team currently purchases 100% post-consumer
recycled content paper, exceeding upcoming SB 1383 regulatory requirements for 30% recycled content
paper. The Contracting and Purchasing function within Finance uses a web-based bid management
platform.
Implementation Strategy UPSTREAM DESIGN & PRODUCTION Maximize the purchase and use of sustainable
materials.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Expand Environmentally Preferable Purchasing
Policy.
Optional:
Purchase refillable pens and dry erase markers.
Purchase rechargeable batteries.
Purchase bio-based or recycled content packaging
materials.
Purchase from vendor(s) who minimize packaging
and/or utilize recycled packaging.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate staff
time to regular review of purchasing records for
sustainability criteria, and of purchasing restrictions
placed on vendors. Additional resources may be
recommended to coordinate with SMM staff on
purchasing best practices and reviewing purchasing
policies, including the environmentally preferable
purchasing policy.
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Phase 3, Initiative A - Individual Action Plans for City Departments
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Ensure at least 75% of city government’s annual
purchases of paper products are recycled content.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Continue to purchase 30-100% recycled content
paper.
Continue to give a 15% price preference to recycled
content products.
Record and report on recycled content paper
purchases as required by Senate Bill 1383.
Optional:
Purchase envelopes without plastic windows to
ensure the envelopes are recyclable.
Increase price preference given to recycled content
products.
Purchase paper products that are Forest
Stewardship Council (FSC) certified.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate staff
time in the Purchasing Department to coordinating
with other departments on purchases that should be
streamlined through the purchasing department.
Additional resources may be recommended to
catalogue purchases of all paper product types for SB
1383 compliance.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 38 of 255
DRAFT Sustainable Materials Management Implementation Plan
Phase 3, Initiative A - Individual Action Plans for City Departments
December 2, 2021 Page 25 of 129 HF&H Consultants, LLC CONSUMPTION & USE Identify and realize waste prevention opportunities
in all city government departments.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Continue to default to double-sided print.
Optional:
Provide reminder signage to reduce printer paper
use.
Provide “scratch paper” bin next to printer.
Digitize office functions that would otherwise
require office supplies.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate staff
time to reviewing deployed printer settings in
department. Designate a “Sustainability” Liaison in
each department to coordinate with the Sustainable
Materials Management (SMM) staff and other
Sustainability Team members, staying up to date on
SMM best practices.
Identify and realize material reuse opportunities in
all city government departments.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Continue to search for used items through
secondhand vendors prior to purchasing new, as
feasible.
Continue to follow city donation policy for items to
be discarded.
Optional:
Include incentives and/or price preference for
product options that are reused and/or reusable.
Establish dedicated space for building reuse
exchange.
Expand and/or digitize building reuse exchange.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate staff
time to reviewing recycling reports from vendors and
coordinating with current and potential recipients’
donations. Additional resources may be
recommended for maintenance of a reuse office
supply exchange, which may include regular visual
monitoring of a physical exchange.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 39 of 255
DRAFT Sustainable Materials Management Implementation Plan
Phase 3, Initiative A - Individual Action Plans for City Departments
December 2, 2021 Page 26 of 129 HF&H Consultants, LLC END-OF-LIFE Expand recycling and organic waste collection in
public areas and venues.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Review bin signage on acceptable materials for
landfill, recycle, and organics collection.
Optional:
Check with SMM staff for the most up-to-date
recycling information.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate staff
time to familiarizing all employees with sustainable
materials management best practices, including the
most recent recycling rules.
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Human Resources
Existing Conditions and Practices
The Human Resources Department has made, and continues to make, efforts to reduce their paper usage,
including providing the city employee manual in digital form. There are significant opportunities to reduce
paper usage further, and to integrate sustainable materials management education into new employee
training and employee continuing education programs that are managed by Human Resources.
Implementation Strategy UPSTREAM DESIGN Maximize the purchase and use of sustainable
materials.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Continue to purchase training and event supplies
and other products and services aligned with the
city’s environmentally preferable purchasing policy.
Optional:
Continue to purchase refillable pens and dry erase
markers.
Purchase rechargeable batteries.
Purchase bio-based or recycled content packaging
materials.
Continue to purchase from vendor(s) who minimize
packaging and/or utilize recycled packaging.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate staff
time to regular review of purchasing records for
sustainability criteria, and of purchasing restrictions
placed on vendors. Coordinate with the Purchasing
Department on purchasing best practices and
reviewing purchasing policies, including the
environmentally preferable purchasing policy.
Allocate staff time to reviewing departmental office
supply purchases and reviewing processes that
require the most office supply use.
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Ensure at least 75% of city government’s annual
purchases of paper products are recycled content.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Continue, to the extent feasible, to have all printed
paper products centrally purchased by the
Purchasing Department, and all janitorial paper
products purchased by the Janitorial Department or
Purchasing Department, to reduce the
recordkeeping time required for state reporting
requirements such as Senate Bill 1383.
Continue to purchase minimum 30% recycled
content paper products.
Require vendors providing printing services to
utilize minimum 30% recycled content paper
products.
Optional:
Purchase paper products that are Forest
Stewardship Council (FSC) certified.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate staff
time to regular review of purchasing records for
sustainability criteria, and of purchasing restrictions
placed on vendors. Coordinate with the Purchasing
Department on purchasing best practices and
reviewing purchasing policies, including the
environmentally preferable purchasing policy.
Allocate staff time to reviewing departmental office
supply purchases and reviewing processes that
require the most office supply use.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 42 of 255
DRAFT Sustainable Materials Management Implementation Plan
Phase 3, Initiative A - Individual Action Plans for City Departments
December 2, 2021 Page 29 of 129 HF&H Consultants, LLC CONSUMPTION & USE Identify and realize waste prevention opportunities
in all city government departments.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Continue to provide employee manual digitally.
Continue to default to double-sided print.
Optional:
Provide all employment forms digitally.
Provide Sustainable Materials Management (SMM)
staff with an opportunity to present or provide a
recorded video on sustainable materials
management during employee onboarding.
Provide SMM staff with an opportunity to integrate
sustainable material management training for all
employees into new hire program.
Provide reminder signage to reduce printer paper
use.
Provide “scratch paper” bin next to printer.
Digitize office functions that would otherwise
require office supplies.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate
Human Resources department time to coordinating
with SMM staff and developing educational
opportunities for employees. Designate a
“Sustainability” Liaison in each department to
coordinate with the SMM staff and other
Sustainability Team members, staying up to date on
SMM best practices.
Identify and realize material reuse opportunities in
all city government departments.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Continue to search for used items through city
exchange portal and secondhand vendors prior to
purchasing new.
Continue to follow city donation policy for items to
be discarded.
Optional:
Establish dedicated space for office supplies reuse
exchange.
Expand and/or digitize office supplies exchange.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate staff
time to reviewing recycling reports from vendors and
coordinating with current and potential recipients of
electronics donations. Additional resources may be
recommended for maintenance of a reuse office
supply exchange, which may include regular visual
monitoring of a physical exchange.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 43 of 255
DRAFT Sustainable Materials Management Implementation Plan
Phase 3, Initiative A - Individual Action Plans for City Departments
December 2, 2021 Page 30 of 129 HF&H Consultants, LLC END-OF-LIFE Expand recycling and organic waste collection in
public areas and venues.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Review bin signage on acceptable materials for
landfill, recycle, and organics collection.
Optional:
Update employee onboarding educational
resources to include latest recycling rules. Update
recycling rules as needed by meeting with SMM
staff yearly.
Check with SMM staff for the most up-to-date
recycling information.
Provide annual “refresher” training or resources on
sustainability best practices to all employees.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate staff
time to developing and updating training materials
and familiarizing all employees with sustainable
materials management best practices, including the
most recent recycling rules.
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Phase 3, Initiative A - Individual Action Plans for City Departments
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Information Technology
Existing Conditions and Practices
The Information Technology (IT) Department currently engages in a number of sustainable materials
management practices to reduce their electronic and paper waste. Paper reduction efforts include setting
printers for all departments to a default of double-sided print and tracking printing through badge
registration. The IT Department also has a contract with the printing equipment service provider Ricoh
that requires Ricoh to take back all empty printer ink and toner cartridges for remanufacturing or
recycling. Additionally, the IT Department has transitioned from primarily physical to virtual servers.
Implementation Strategy UPSTREAM DESIGN & PRODUCTION Maximize the purchase and use of sustainable
materials.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Purchase products and services aligned with the
city’s environmentally preferable purchasing policy.
Optional:
Continue to utilize an asset management system
that can track whether electronics have been idle and redistribute them to staff who can utilize them.
Purchase remanufactured, refilled, or high-yield ink
and toner.
Purchase and track quantity of recycled content
electronics (e.g., recycled content plastic casing,
recycled content metal).
Purchase refillable pens and dry erase markers.
Purchase rechargeable batteries.
Purchase bio-based or recycled content packaging
materials.
Purchase from vendor(s) who minimize packaging
and/or utilize recycled packaging.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Additional
resources may be recommended to regular review of
purchasing records for sustainability criteria, and of
purchasing restrictions placed on vendors. Coordinate
with the Purchasing Department on purchasing best
practices and reviewing purchasing policies, including
the environmentally preferable purchasing policy.
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December 2, 2021 Page 32 of 129 HF&H Consultants, LLC
Ensure at least 75% of city government’s annual
purchases of paper products are recycled content.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
To the extent feasible, receive direction on paper
purchasing from Purchasing Department direction,
and all janitorial paper products to be purchased by
the Facilities Department or Purchasing
Department.
Purchase minimum 30% recycled content paper
products.
Require vendors providing printing services to
utilize minimum 30% recycled content paper
products.
Optional:
Purchase envelopes without plastic windows to
ensure the envelopes are recyclable.
Purchase paper products that are Forest
Stewardship Council (FSC) certified.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate staff
time to reviewing and recording paper purchases in
accordance with SB 1383.
CONSUMPTION & USE Identify and realize waste prevention opportunities
in all city government departments.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Continue to set up printers with a default to
double-sided print.
Optional:
Provide reminder signage to reduce printer paper
use.
Provide “scratch paper” bin next to printer.
Digitize office functions that would otherwise
require office supplies.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate staff
time to reviewing deployed printer settings. Allocate
staff time to developing and placing appropriate
signage. Designate a “Sustainability” Liaison in each
department to coordinate with the Sustainable
Materials Management (SMM) staff and other
Sustainability Team members, staying up to date on
SMM best practices.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 46 of 255
DRAFT Sustainable Materials Management Implementation Plan
Phase 3, Initiative A - Individual Action Plans for City Departments
December 2, 2021 Page 33 of 129 HF&H Consultants, LLC
Identify and realize material reuse opportunities in
all city government departments.
Annual Report Notes:
Continue to ensure all printer ink and toner is
remanufactured, refilled, or recycled.
Continue to ensure all electronics are collected by a
CalRecycle approved recycler for remanufacturing
or recycling.
Continue to donate all usable electronics taken out
of use.
Continue to search for used items through city
auction portal and secondhand vendors.
Continue to follow city donation policy for items to
be discarded.
Establish dedicated space for building reuse
exchange.
Expand and/or digitize building reuse exchange.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate staff
time to reviewing recycling reports from vendors and
coordinating with current and potential recipients of
electronics donations. Allocate staff and/or volunteer
time to maintenance of a reuse office supply
exchange, which may include regular visual
monitoring of a physical exchange.
END-OF-LIFE Expand recycling and organic waste collection in
public areas and venues.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Review bin signage on acceptable materials for
landfill, recycle, and organics collection.
Optional:
Expand accessibility of electronics and/or printer
ink recycling collection.
Check with SMM staff for the most up-to-date
recycling information.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Additional
resources may be recommended to create, distribute,
and manage collection containers/sites for recycling
and developing educational materials for staff on
where and how to recycle electronics and/or printer
ink. Look to identify when materials can be sent back
to manufacturers for recycling. Allocate staff time to
familiarizing all employees with sustainable materials
management best practices, including the most
recent recycling rules.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 47 of 255
DRAFT Sustainable Materials Management Implementation Plan
Phase 3, Initiative A - Individual Action Plans for City Departments
December 2, 2021 Page 34 of 129 HF&H Consultants, LLC
Innovation & Economic Development
Existing Conditions and Practices
In 2020, the Innovation & Economic Development Department’s “Connected Carlsbad: An Inclusive City
Innovation Roadmap” was adopted by City Council. This plan outlines measures to increase digital
connectivity of the community to city services, enabling a greater shift towards paperless processes.
Furthermore, the Innovation & Economic Development Department connects businesses to the Green
Business Program, which can be utilized as a forum to exchange sustainable materials management best
practices between commercial participants and city departments with similar functions.
Implementation Strategy UPSTREAM DESIGN Maximize the purchase and use of sustainable
materials.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Purchase products and services aligned with
environmentally preferable purchasing
policies.
Optional:
Purchase refillable pens and dry erase
markers.
Purchase rechargeable batteries.
Purchase bio-based or recycled content
packaging materials.
Purchase from vendor(s) who minimize
packaging and/or utilize recycled packaging.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate
staff time to regular review of purchasing
records for sustainability criteria, and of
purchasing restrictions placed on vendors.
Coordinate with the Purchasing Department on
purchasing best practices and reviewing
purchasing policies, including the
environmentally preferable purchasing policy.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 48 of 255
DRAFT Sustainable Materials Management Implementation Plan
Phase 3, Initiative A - Individual Action Plans for City Departments
December 2, 2021 Page 35 of 129 HF&H Consultants, LLC
Ensure at least 75% of city government’s annual
purchases of paper products are recycled content.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
To the extent feasible, have printed paper products
be purchased through the Purchasing Department
or with Purchasing Department direction, and all
janitorial paper products to be purchased by the
Janitorial Department or Purchasing Department,
to reduce the recordkeeping time required for state
reporting requirements such as Senate Bill 1383.
Purchase minimum 30% recycled content paper
products.
Require vendors providing printing services to
utilize minimum 30% recycled content paper
products.
Optional:
Purchase envelopes without plastic windows to
ensure the envelopes are recyclable.
Purchase paper products that are Forest
Stewardship Council (FSC) certified.
Implementation/Resourcing Tips: Allocate staff time
to reviewing and recording paper purchases in
accordance with SB 1383.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 49 of 255
DRAFT Sustainable Materials Management Implementation Plan
Phase 3, Initiative A - Individual Action Plans for City Departments
December 2, 2021 Page 36 of 129 HF&H Consultants, LLC CONSUMPTION & USE Identify and realize waste prevention opportunities
in all city government departments.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Continue to link to digitized Green Business
Program education materials.
Continue to default to double-sided print.
Optional:
Continue to provide businesses with information on
the benefits of Sustainable Materials Management
(e.g., cost savings, aligning with community
business norms).
Share with businesses an inventory of the
resources Carlsbad has to provide to support
business’s SMM efforts (e.g., technical assistance).
Provide reminder signage to reduce printer paper
use.
Provide “scratch paper” bin next to printer.
Digitize office functions that would otherwise
require office supplies.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Additional
resources may be recommended for coordinating
with other departments for sustainability innovation
opportunities, and for updating website materials.
Designate a “Sustainability” Liaison in each
department to coordinate with the Sustainable
Materials Management (SMM) staff and other
Sustainability Team members, staying up to date on
SMM best practices.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 50 of 255
DRAFT Sustainable Materials Management Implementation Plan
Phase 3, Initiative A - Individual Action Plans for City Departments
December 2, 2021 Page 37 of 129 HF&H Consultants, LLC
Identify and realize material reuse opportunities in
all city government departments.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Continue to search for used items through
secondhand vendors prior to purchasing new, as
feasible.
Continue to follow city donation policy for items to
be discarded.
Optional:
Establish dedicated space for building reuse
exchange.
Expand and/or digitize building reuse exchange.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate staff
time to reviewing recycling reports from vendors and
coordinating with current and potential recipients of
donations. Additional resources may be
recommended for maintenance of a reuse office
supply exchange, which may include regular visual
monitoring of a physical exchange.
END-OF-LIFE Expand recycling and organic waste collection in
public areas and venues.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Share information on SMM-related environmental
regulations and policies with business community,
such as SB 1383 organics collection (service starting
July 1, 2022) and edible food donation
requirements for certain types of businesses (e.g.,
grocery stores).
Review bin signage on acceptable materials for
landfill, recycle, and organics collection.
Optional:
Continue to share SMM information with business
community.
Check with SMM staff for the most up-to-date
recycling information.
Create metrics and recognition for local businesses
with outstanding SMM practices.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate staff
time to developing and updating training materials
and familiarizing all employees with sustainable
materials management best practices, including the
most recent recycling rules.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 51 of 255
DRAFT Sustainable Materials Management Implementation Plan
Phase 3, Initiative A - Individual Action Plans for City Departments
December 2, 2021 Page 38 of 129 HF&H Consultants, LLC
City Hall
City Clerk, City Attorney, Communications and Engagement, Intergovernmental Affairs
Existing Conditions and Practices
City Hall was observed to have a relatively higher usage of single-use food service ware and single-use
coffee pods. Communications and Engagement has worked collaboratively with Sustainable Materials
Management staff to produce educational materials regarding sustainable materials management and
was observed to be taking creative approaches to encouraging effective communication strategies that
reduced paper use. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Communications Department further encouraged
social media outreach over print.
Implementation Strategy UPSTREAM DESIGN Maximize the purchase and use of sustainable
materials.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Purchase products and services aligned with
environmentally preferable purchasing policies.
Optional:
Purchase refillable pens and dry erase markers.
Purchase rechargeable batteries. Currently, single
use batteries are being utilized.
Purchase bio-based or recycled content packaging
materials.
Purchase from vendor(s) who minimize packaging
and/or utilize recycled packaging.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Coordinate
with the Purchasing Department on purchasing best
practices and reviewing purchasing policies,
including the environmentally preferable purchasing
policy. Allocate staff time to reviewing departmental
office supply purchases and reviewing processes
that require the most office supply use.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 52 of 255
DRAFT Sustainable Materials Management Implementation Plan
Phase 3, Initiative A - Individual Action Plans for City Departments
December 2, 2021 Page 39 of 129 HF&H Consultants, LLC Ensure at least 75% of city government’s annual
purchases of paper products are recycled content.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Purchase paper products with 30% minimum
postconsumer recycled content.
Require third party printing services to use 30%
minimum recycled content (e.g., mailers).
To the extent feasible, have printed paper
products purchased by the Purchasing
Department, and all janitorial paper products
purchased by the Janitorial Department or
Purchasing Department, to reduce the
recordkeeping time required for state reporting
requirements such as Senate Bill 1383 (effective
January 1, 2022).
Optional:
Purchase envelopes without plastic windows to
ensure the envelopes are recyclable.
Purchase paper products that are Forest
Stewardship Council (FSC) certified.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate staff
time to coordinating with Purchasing Department to
transfer all paper product purchasing activities to
Purchasing, including providing the department with
historical purchasing data. Allocate staff time to
cataloguing purchases of all paper product types.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 53 of 255
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Phase 3, Initiative A - Individual Action Plans for City Departments
December 2, 2021 Page 40 of 129 HF&H Consultants, LLC
CONSUMPTION & USE Identify and realize waste prevention
opportunities in all city government departments.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Encourage digital outreach over print marketing.
Continue to provide electronic access to many
public records.
Optional:
Expand the permissibility of electronic signatures
for city functions.
Require digital-only outreach for city internal
events.
Expand types of public records that can be
accessed electronically.
Increase public education regarding what election
information can be received electronically.
Encourage electronic signature use when
permissible.
Require digital-only outreach for events for less
than 25 attendees.
Default public education and outreach to
electronic forms.
Require electronic signature use when
permissible.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Additional
resources may be recommended for digitizing hard
copies, updating processes for electronic signature,
and educating the public about new electronic
processes.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 54 of 255
DRAFT Sustainable Materials Management Implementation Plan
Phase 3, Initiative A - Individual Action Plans for City Departments
December 2, 2021 Page 41 of 129 HF&H Consultants, LLC
Identify and realize material reuse opportunities in
all city government departments.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Continue to search for used items through
secondhand vendors prior to purchasing new.
Continue to follow city donation policy for items
to be discarded.
Optional:
Establish dedicated space for office supplies reuse
exchange.
Expand and/or digitize office supplies reuse
exchange.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate staff
time to reviewing recycling reports from vendors
and coordinating with current and potential
recipients of electronics donations. Additional
resources may be recommended for maintenance of
a reuse office supply exchange, which may include
regular visual monitoring of a physical exchange.
END-OF-LIFE Expand recycling and organic waste collection in
public areas and venues.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Review bin signage on acceptable materials for
landfill, recycle, and organics collection.
Optional:
Check with SMM staff for the most up-to-date
recycling information.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate staff
time to familiarizing all employees with sustainable
materials management best practices, including the
most recent recycling rules.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 55 of 255
DRAFT Sustainable Materials Management Implementation Plan
Phase 3, Initiative A - Individual Action Plans for City Departments
December 2, 2021 Page 42 of 129 HF&H Consultants, LLC
Community Services
Community Development, Library & Cultural Arts, Parks & Recreation
Community Development
Existing Conditions and Practices
Community Development is responsible for implementing the city’s land use goals, policies, and
regulations for private development projects, and includes the divisions of Planning, Building, Land
Development Engineering, and Code Enforcement. Currently, the Planning Division allows certain
paperless submittals via email. However, no virtual plan check system is in place. Planning is only
maintaining printed copies of active plans.
Implementation Strategy UPSTREAM DESIGN & PRODUCTION Maximize the purchase and use of sustainable
materials.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Purchase products and services aligned with city’s
environmentally preferable purchasing policy.
Optional:
Purchase refillable pens and dry erase markers.
Purchase rechargeable batteries. Currently, single
use batteries are being utilized.
Purchase bio-based or recycled content packaging
materials.
Purchase from vendor(s) who minimize packaging
and/or utilize recycled packaging.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Coordinate
with the Purchasing Department on purchasing best
practices and reviewing purchasing policies, including
the environmentally preferable purchasing policy.
Additional resources may be recommended to review
departmental office supply purchases and reviewing
processes that require the most office supply use.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 56 of 255
DRAFT Sustainable Materials Management Implementation Plan
Phase 3, Initiative A - Individual Action Plans for City Departments
December 2, 2021 Page 43 of 129 HF&H Consultants, LLC
Ensure at least 75% of city government’s annual
purchases of paper products are recycled content.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Require paper products to be minimum 30% post-
consumer recycled content.
Require printing services to print on minimum 30%
post-consumer recycled content.
To the extent feasible, have printed paper products
to be centrally purchased by the Purchasing
Department, and janitorial paper products to be
purchased by the Janitorial Department or
Purchasing Department, to reduce the
recordkeeping time required for state reporting
requirements such as Senate Bill 1383.
Optional:
Purchase envelopes without plastic windows to
ensure the envelopes are recyclable.
Purchase paper products that are Forest
Stewardship Council (FSC) certified.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Additional
resources may be recommended for cataloguing
purchases of all paper product types.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 57 of 255
DRAFT Sustainable Materials Management Implementation Plan
Phase 3, Initiative A - Individual Action Plans for City Departments
December 2, 2021 Page 44 of 129 HF&H Consultants, LLC CONSUMPTION & USE Identify and realize waste prevention opportunities
in all city government departments.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Provide options for electronic submissions for some
permit applications and other submittals.
Continue to default to double-sided print.
Optional:
Expand the types of submittals that can be
processed electronically, such as construction
waste management plans and receipts.
Provide reminder signage to reduce printer paper
use.
Enable all submittals to be processed electronically,
that are legally permitted to be paperless
submissions.
Expand incentives for paperless submittals.
Provide “scratch paper” bin next to printer.
Digitize office functions that would otherwise
require office supplies.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Additional
resources may be recommended to digitize hard
copies, update processes for electronic signature, and
educate the public about new electronic processes.
Additional resources may be also recommended to
maintaining sustainable materials management
educational resources. Designate a “Sustainability”
Liaison in each department to coordinate with the
SMM staff and other Sustainability Team members,
staying up to date on SMM best practices.
Identify and realize material reuse opportunities in
all city government departments.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Continue to search for used items through
secondhand vendors prior to purchasing new,
when feasible.
Continue to follow city donation policy for items to
be discarded.
Optional:
Establish dedicated space for office supply reuse
exchange.
Expand and/or digitize office supply reuse
exchange.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Additional
resources may be recommended to review recycling
reports from vendors. Additional resources may be
also recommended for maintenance of a reuse office
supply exchange, which may include regular visual
monitoring of a physical exchange.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 58 of 255
DRAFT Sustainable Materials Management Implementation Plan
Phase 3, Initiative A - Individual Action Plans for City Departments
December 2, 2021 Page 45 of 129 HF&H Consultants, LLC END-OF-LIFE Expand recycling and organic waste collection in
public areas and venues.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Continue to ensure CALGreen requirements for
waste receptacle enclosure space are met during
initial plan review and site inspection.
Update engineer design standards for outdoor
enclosures to accommodate trash, recycle, and
organics containers (presume organics containers
will be same size as trash & recycle).
Continue to ensure CALGreen requirements for
C&D debris diversion are met for construction
projects.
Continue to ensure WELO requirements are met
during plan review and site inspection.
Maximize utilization of compost/mulch that city has
procured.
Review bin signage on acceptable materials for
landfill, recycle, and organics collection.
Optional:
Check with SMM staff for the most up-to-date
recycling information.
Prepare guidelines and bulletins that may include
the following:
o Recommendations for providing
adequate space for paired trash,
recycling, and/or organics interior
receptacles
o Recommendations for outdoor waste
enclosures on accessibility, security, etc.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Additional
resources may be recommended to update standard
specifications, guidelines, and bulletins.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 59 of 255
DRAFT Sustainable Materials Management Implementation Plan
Phase 3, Initiative A - Individual Action Plans for City Departments
December 2, 2021 Page 46 of 129 HF&H Consultants, LLC
Library & Cultural Arts
Existing Conditions and Practices
City libraries are already promoting sustainable materials management in a number of ways, both
internally and externally. The libraries are digitizing some materials books and offering e-books and
audiobooks, as well as redistributing or recycling many of the physical books taken out of circulation. City
libraries provide the public with options to both print and scan items.
The city’s Cultural Arts Division offers a wide array of educational resources, programs, and funding
opportunities for artists. Some of the current offerings that may incorporate sustainable materials
management (e.g., creative material reuse, hazardous waste minimization) include the At-Home Art
Projects Guide, Summer Arts Programs, and Exhibit Opportunities.
Implementation Strategy UPSTREAM DESIGN & PRODUCTION Maximize the purchase and use of sustainable
materials.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Purchase product and services aligned with city’s
environmentally preferable purchasing policy.
Require printing services to print on minimum 30%
post-consumer recycled content.
Optional:
Collaborate with on-site café to encourage reusable
and compostable service ware options.
Purchase refillable pens and dry erase markers.
Purchase rechargeable batteries.
Purchase bio-based or recycled content packaging
materials.
Purchase from vendor(s) who minimize packaging
and/or utilize recycled packaging.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate
Library staff time to coordinating with on-site café.
Allocate Cultural Arts staff time to developing a
digital and/or audio gallery tour and sustainable
materials management grant(s). Coordinate with the
Purchasing Department on purchasing best practices
and reviewing purchasing policies, including the
environmentally preferable purchasing policy.
Allocate staff time to reviewing departmental office
supply purchases and reviewing processes that
require the most office supply use.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 60 of 255
DRAFT Sustainable Materials Management Implementation Plan
Phase 3, Initiative A - Individual Action Plans for City Departments
December 2, 2021 Page 47 of 129 HF&H Consultants, LLC
Ensure at least 75% of city government’s annual
purchases of paper products are recycled content.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Require paper products to be minimum 30% post-
consumer recycled content.
Require printing services to print on minimum 30%
post-consumer recycled content.
To the extent feasible, have printed paper products
to be centrally purchased by the Purchasing
Department, and janitorial paper products to be
purchased by the Janitorial Department or
Purchasing Department, to reduce the
recordkeeping time required for state reporting
requirements such as Senate Bill 1383.
Optional:
Purchase envelopes without plastic windows to
ensure the envelopes are recyclable.
Purchase paper products that are Forest
Stewardship Council (FSC) certified.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate staff
time to cataloguing purchases of all paper product
types.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 61 of 255
DRAFT Sustainable Materials Management Implementation Plan
Phase 3, Initiative A - Individual Action Plans for City Departments
December 2, 2021 Page 48 of 129 HF&H Consultants, LLC CONSUMPTION & USE Identify and realize waste prevention opportunities
in all city government departments.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Continue to default printers to double-sided
printing.
Optional:
Provide reminder signage to reduce printer paper
use.
Provide a digital and/or audio guide option for
gallery visitors, as an alternative to pamphlets.
Expand practice of removing laminated book covers
for books that cannot be reused, to enable pages to
be recycled.
Provide public educational resources and programs
that incorporate sustainable materials
management at art gallery.
Provide “scratch paper” bin next to printer.
Digitize office functions that would otherwise
require office supplies.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate staff
time to digitizing hard copies. Allocate staff time to
developing and maintaining sustainable materials
management educational resources and
programming. Allocate staff time to reviewing
deployed printer settings. Designate a
“Sustainability” Liaison in each department to
coordinate with the Sustainable Materials
Management (SMM) staff and other Sustainability
Team members, staying up to date on SMM best
practices.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 62 of 255
DRAFT Sustainable Materials Management Implementation Plan
Phase 3, Initiative A - Individual Action Plans for City Departments
December 2, 2021 Page 49 of 129 HF&H Consultants, LLC
Identify and realize material reuse opportunities in
all city government departments.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Search for used items through secondhand vendors
prior to purchasing new, as feasible.
Continue to follow city donation policy for items to
be discarded.
Optional:
Continue to promote e-book options for patrons.
Use reusable containers for interlibrary book
transport.
Establish dedicated space for office supplies
exchange.
Expand and/or digitize building office supplies
exchange.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate staff
time to developing a tool library (if applicable).
Allocate staff time to reviewing recycling reports
from vendors and coordinating with current/potential
recipients of electronics donations. Increased staffing
recommended for maintenance of a reuse office
supply exchange, which may include regular visual
monitoring of a physical exchange.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 63 of 255
DRAFT Sustainable Materials Management Implementation Plan
Phase 3, Initiative A - Individual Action Plans for City Departments
December 2, 2021 Page 50 of 129 HF&H Consultants, LLC
END-OF-LIFE Expand recycling and organic waste collection in
public areas and venues.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Continue to recycle library books that cannot be
reused.
Review information on acceptable materials for
landfill, recycle, and organics collection.
Optional:
Recycle CDs and DVDs removed from circulation.
Continue to direct end-of-life furniture to facilities
department.
Check with SMM staff for the most up-to-date
recycling information.
Expand special material recycling drop-off offerings
for public.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate staff
time to update facility rental agreements and develop
educational materials for facility renters. Allocate
staff time to familiarizing all employees with
sustainable materials management best practices,
including the most recent recycling rules.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 64 of 255
DRAFT Sustainable Materials Management Implementation Plan
Phase 3, Initiative A - Individual Action Plans for City Departments
December 2, 2021 Page 51 of 129 HF&H Consultants, LLC
Parks & Recreation
Existing Conditions and Practices
The Parks & Recreation Department oversees a number of functions that can potentially produce a
significant volume of waste. This includes operation of the city’s Senior Center, which has already made
significant strides in reducing waste by offering reusable service ware that can be washed onsite with a
dishwasher. Because meals are cooked by a contractor offsite, food prep waste is minimal. Uneaten meals
are repurposed rather than disposed.
The city’s landscaping contracts should be updated to increase compost and mulch utilization, as well as
require more detailed records of landscape debris recycling, to support compliance with upcoming Senate
Bill 1383 requirements to procure organic waste product. The city’s current landscaping contracts do not
specify that the mulch used be made from organic waste, or specify the use of compost. Currently, the
city contracts with one of its landscapers to service public receptacles daily, and to dispose of receptacles
that are put out of service. The city currently uses several types of public waste receptacles.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 65 of 255
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Phase 3, Initiative A - Individual Action Plans for City Departments
December 2, 2021 Page 52 of 129 HF&H Consultants, LLC
Implementation Strategy UPSTREAM DESIGN & PRODUCTION Maximize the purchase and use of sustainable
materials.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Continue to require contractor takeback,
repurposing, recycling, or proper disposal for
artificial turf replacements.
Optional:
Continue to use greener pesticides and herbicides
as part of IPM.
Purchase sports equipment made from recycled
content when available for camps, aquatic centers,
and sports fields.
Continue to utilize recycled content for artificial
turf.
Purchase refillable pens and dry erase markers.
Purchase rechargeable batteries. Currently, single
use batteries are being utilized.
Incentivize or require salvaged/recycled content
material use for landscaping structures and
hardscapes (e.g., recycled aggregate for retaining
walls, benches, and walkways).
Purchase playground equipment made from
recycled content when available.
Continue to consider utilization of bio-based
materials for artificial turf (e.g., coconut husks).
Purchase bio-based or recycled content packaging
materials.
Purchase from vendor(s) who minimize packaging
and/or utilize recycled packaging.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate Parks
& Recreation staff time to reviewing and updating
vendor agreements. Coordinate with the Purchasing
Department on purchasing best practices and
reviewing purchasing policies, including the
environmentally preferable purchasing policy.
Allocate staff time to reviewing departmental office
supply purchases and reviewing processes that
require the most office supply use.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 66 of 255
DRAFT Sustainable Materials Management Implementation Plan
Phase 3, Initiative A - Individual Action Plans for City Departments
December 2, 2021 Page 53 of 129 HF&H Consultants, LLC
Annually procure a quantity of recovered organic
waste products that meets or exceeds the city’s SB
1383 annual recovered organics waste product
procurement target.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Maximize utilization of compost and mulch
made from organic waste that comply with SB
1383 specifications.
Update landscaping contracts to utilize
compost and mulch from city instead of
procuring separately.
Optional:
Coordinate with golf course contractor to
utilize compost for landscaping and as erosion
control.
Continue to implement an Integrated Pest
Management plan. The IPM program should
be compliant with LEED green building
standards.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips:
Coordinate with Sustainable Materials
Management staff regarding sourcing SB 1383
compliant compost and mulch. Allocate staff
time to reviewing and updating vendor
agreements, reviewing and updating
specifications for the use of organic waste
products in Parks & Recreation activities, and
training appropriate staff and contractors.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 67 of 255
DRAFT Sustainable Materials Management Implementation Plan
Phase 3, Initiative A - Individual Action Plans for City Departments
December 2, 2021 Page 54 of 129 HF&H Consultants, LLC
Ensure at least 75% of city government’s annual
purchases of paper products are recycled content.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Require paper products to be minimum 30% post-
consumer recycled content.
Require printing services to print on minimum 30%
post-consumer recycled content.
To the extent feasible, have printed paper products
to be centrally purchased by the Purchasing
Department, and janitorial paper products to be
purchased by the Janitorial Department or
Purchasing Department, to reduce the
recordkeeping time required for state reporting
requirements such as Senate Bill 1383.
Optional:
Purchase envelopes without plastic windows to
ensure the envelopes are recyclable.
Purchase paper products that are Forest
Stewardship Council (FSC) certified.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate staff
time to cataloguing purchases of all paper product
types.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 68 of 255
DRAFT Sustainable Materials Management Implementation Plan
Phase 3, Initiative A - Individual Action Plans for City Departments
December 2, 2021 Page 55 of 129 HF&H Consultants, LLC CONSUMPTION & USE Identify and realize waste prevention opportunities
in all city government departments.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Continue to require golf course contractor to
implement waste reduction efforts at golf course
restaurant.
Continue to minimize discards from leftover food at
Senior Center, Early Ed and Pre-K sites.
Continue to default to double-sided print.
Optional:
Minimize discards at Senior Center lunch service
(e.g., encourage patrons to take their leftovers
home, increase organics bins convenience and
availability).
Utilize compostable or reusable cups, plates, and
napkins for snacks and meals at Early Education
and Pre-K sites.
Train parent-helpers in Early Education programs
on best practices for waste prevention and proper
sorting.
Provide reminder signage to reduce printer paper
use.
Continue to reduce plant debris generated by
selecting plants that can grow to natural size in
space provided.
Expand digital guide offerings for historic parks,
trails (e.g., QR code)
Continue to prioritize native plant landscaping.
Provide resources and education to families of
students attending summer camps, early
education, and pre-k programs on zero-waste lunch
and snack options.
Provide “scratch paper” bin next to printer.
Digitize office functions that would otherwise
require office supplies.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate staff
time to developing and maintaining sustainable
materials management educational resources and
programming. Designate a “Sustainability” Liaison in
each department to coordinate with the Sustainable
Materials Management (SMM) staff and other
Sustainability Team members, staying up to date on
SMM best practices.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 69 of 255
DRAFT Sustainable Materials Management Implementation Plan
Phase 3, Initiative A - Individual Action Plans for City Departments
December 2, 2021 Page 56 of 129 HF&H Consultants, LLC
Identify and realize material reuse opportunities in
all city government departments.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Continue to offer reusable dishware and silverware
for meals at Senior Center.
Continue to search for used items through city
auction portal and secondhand vendors.
Continue to follow city donation policy for items to
be discarded.
Optional:
Establish dedicated space for building reuse
exchange.
Expand and/or digitize building reuse exchange.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate staff
time to reviewing and implementing additional
opportunities to transition to reusable dishware.
Allocate staff time to reviewing recycling reports
from vendors and coordinating with current and
potential recipients of electronics donations. Allocate
staff and/or volunteer time to maintenance of a
reuse office supply exchange, which may include
regular visual monitoring of a physical exchange.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 70 of 255
DRAFT Sustainable Materials Management Implementation Plan
Phase 3, Initiative A - Individual Action Plans for City Departments
December 2, 2021 Page 57 of 129 HF&H Consultants, LLC END-OF-LIFE Expand recycling and organic waste collection in
public areas and venues.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Continue to update special event permit
application to ensure compliance with trash,
recycling, and organics collection, as well as edible
food recovery requirements.
Confirm that special event permit applicants have
planned for adequate trash, recycling, and organics
collection prior to granting permits; educate
applicants about hauler services available.
Provide facility renter source separation training for
facility renters.
Continue to recycle all landscape debris and
maintain records of weights recycled.
Provide a public recycling receptacle next to each
trash receptacle (twinning) and vice versa with
signage.
Provide public waste receptacles in consistent
colors and shapes.
Require public receptacle collection contractor to
provide recycling and disposal weights for all
collections for SB 1383 compliance.
Review bin signage on acceptable materials for
landfill, recycle, and organics collection.
Optional:
Enable facility renters to request additional
temporary trash, recycling, and organics bins.
Incentivize or require grass-cycling (leaving
clippings in place to decompose after mowing).
Check with SMM staff for the most up-to-date
recycling information.
Provide a public organics receptacle next to each
recycle and trash bin with signage in areas
surrounding food service spaces (e.g., outside
Senior Center cafeteria).
Provide facility rental agreement that describes
what materials can be brought in and discarded.
Include list of preferred/suggested vendors in
facility rental agreement.
Procure recyclable (e.g., metal) and/or recycled
content receptacles to replace receptacles going
out-of-use. Divert receptacles from landfill
whenever possible.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 71 of 255
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Phase 3, Initiative A - Individual Action Plans for City Departments
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Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate staff
time to update facility rental agreements and develop
educational materials for facility renters. Allocate
staff time to develop an inventory of all public
recycle, organics, and trash receptacles including
their location, type of container, signage, and how
they are grouped. Allocate staff time to the
procurement and replacement of uniform receptacles
that encourage sustainable materials management
best practices. Allocate staff time to familiarizing all
employees with sustainable materials management
best practices, including the most recent recycling
rules.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 72 of 255
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Public Safety
Fire, Police
Existing Conditions and Practices
Public Safety operations, including the Carlsbad Safety Training Center, currently demonstrate leadership
in sustainable materials management. While public safety activities require a relatively large quantity and
variety of hazardous materials and chemicals, the department and its Facility Manager have found many
ways to minimize both hazardous and nonhazardous waste. Both the police and fire departments have
transitioned many processes from paper to digital. Public Safety has a significant inventory of single-use
water bottles that are used both to provide to the public and for employee use. While a substitute for
public distribution of single-use water bottles may not be feasible at this time, employee consumption
can be transitioned to reusable water bottles.
Implementation Strategy UPSTREAM DESIGN & PRODUCTION Maximize the purchase and use of sustainable
materials.
Annual Report Notes:
Optional:
Continue to purchase reusable flares.
Continue to purchase reusable flash bangs.
Procure lead-free ammunition.
Purchase refillable pens and dry erase markers.
Purchase rechargeable batteries.
Purchase bio-based or recycled content packaging
materials.
Purchase from vendor(s) who minimize packaging
and/or utilize recycled packaging.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate staff
time, if applicable, to testing lead-free ammunition
and training employees on use of lead-free
ammunition. The state contract for lead-free
ammunition allows local jurisdictions to piggyback.
Coordinate with the Purchasing Department on
purchasing best practices and reviewing purchasing
policies, including the environmentally preferable
purchasing policy. Allocate staff time to reviewing
departmental office supply purchases and reviewing
processes that require the most office supply use.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 73 of 255
DRAFT Sustainable Materials Management Implementation Plan
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December 2, 2021 Page 60 of 129 HF&H Consultants, LLC
Ensure at least 75% of city government’s annual
purchases of paper products are recycled content.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Require paper products to be minimum 30% post-
consumer recycled content.
Require printing services to print on minimum 30%
post-consumer recycled content.
Require janitorial paper products to have minimum
30% post-consumer recycled content.
Optional:
Purchase envelopes without plastic windows to
ensure the envelopes are recyclable.
Purchase paper products that are Forest
Stewardship Council (FSC) certified.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate staff
time to cataloguing purchases of all paper product
types.
CONSUMPTION & USE Identify and realize waste prevention opportunities
in all city government departments.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Continue to default to double-sided print.
Optional:
Provide reminder signage to reduce printer paper
use.
Provide “scratch paper” bin next to printer.
Digitize office functions that would otherwise
require office supplies.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate staff
time to reviewing deployed printer settings. Allocate
staff time to developing and placing appropriate
signage. Designate a “Sustainability” Liaison in each
department to coordinate with the Sustainable
Materials Management (SMM) staff and other
Sustainability Team members, staying up to date on
SMM best practices.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 74 of 255
DRAFT Sustainable Materials Management Implementation Plan
Phase 3, Initiative A - Individual Action Plans for City Departments
December 2, 2021 Page 61 of 129 HF&H Consultants, LLC Identify and realize material reuse opportunities in
all city government departments.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Continue to search for used items through
secondhand vendors where feasible.
Continue to follow city donation policy for items to
be discarded.
Optional:
Continue to donate or recycle used fire hoses.
Utilize and encourage reusable water bottles for
employee consumption.
Establish dedicated space for office supplies reuse
exchange.
Continue to utilize reusable bags for evidence
storage.
Expand and/or digitize office supplies reuse
exchange.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate staff
time to reviewing recycling reports from vendors and
coordinating with current and potential recipients of
electronics donations. Allocate staff and/or volunteer
time to maintenance of a reuse office supply
exchange, which may include regular visual
monitoring of a physical exchange. Consider
purchasing reusable water bottles for employees.
Potential places to donate fire hose include the
following:
https://www.hose2habitat.org/
https://www.oxgut.com/
https://www.repurposedmaterialsinc.com/fire-hose/
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 75 of 255
DRAFT Sustainable Materials Management Implementation Plan
Phase 3, Initiative A - Individual Action Plans for City Departments
December 2, 2021 Page 62 of 129 HF&H Consultants, LLC END-OF-LIFE Expand recycling and organic waste collection in
public areas and venues.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Review bin signage on acceptable materials for
landfill, recycle, and organics collection.
Optional:
Enable facility renters to request additional
temporary trash, recycling, and organics bins.
Identify if old clothing and equipment can be
recycled (gloves, boots, jackets, etc.).
Check with SMM staff for the most up-to-date
recycling information.
Maximize recycling of specialty equipment (e.g.,
gas tanks, spray cans, confidential textiles, gas
mask cartridges) as feasible.
Recycle body armor through state program or
other program:
https://www.dgs.ca.gov/PD/Resources/Find-EPP-
Goods-and-Services/Safety/Protective-Wear.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate staff
time to update facility rental agreements. Allocate
staff time to identify recycling opportunities for
clothing and equipment. Allocate staff time to
familiarizing all employees with sustainable materials
management best practices, including the most
recent recycling rules.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 76 of 255
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Public Works
Construction Management & Inspection, Environmental Management, Fleet & Facilities, Transportation,
Utilities
Construction Management & Inspection
Existing Conditions and Practices
The Construction Management & Inspection Department (CM&I) performs field inspections of
engineering permits for grading, improvement, haul route, work in the right-of-way, and traffic control.
Beginning in 2019, CM&I modified many internal processes resulting in a significant reduction of the
department’s paper consumption and associated office supply materials.
Implementation Strategy UPSTREAM DESIGN & PRODUCTION Maximize the purchase and use of sustainable
materials.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Continue to verify that construction materials for
non-private city projects are aligned with city’s
specified environmentally preferable purchasing
policies and CALGreen.
Optional:
Purchase refillable pens and dry erase markers.
Purchase rechargeable batteries. Currently,
single use batteries are being utilized.
Purchase bio-based or recycled content
packaging materials.
Purchase from vendor(s) who minimize
packaging and/or utilize recycled packaging.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Additional
resources may be recommended for reviewing and
updating product and service contracts.
Coordinate with the Purchasing Department on
purchasing best practices and reviewing
purchasing policies, including the environmentally
preferable purchasing policy.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 77 of 255
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Ensure at least 75% of city government’s annual
purchases of paper products are recycled
content.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
To the extent feasible, have receive direction on
paper purchasing from Purchasing Department
direction, and all janitorial paper products to be
purchased by the Janitorial Department or
Purchasing Department.
Purchase minimum 30% recycled content paper
products.
Require vendors providing printing services to
utilize minimum 30% recycled content paper
products.
Optional:
Purchase envelopes without plastic windows to
ensure the envelopes are recyclable.
Purchase paper products that are Forest
Stewardship Council (FSC) certified.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate
staff time to cataloguing purchases of all paper
product types.
Annually procure a quantity of recovered organic
waste products that meets or exceeds the city’s
SB 1383 target.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Continue to verify that compost and mulch
specifications for city projects comply with
engineering’s SB 1383 specifications.
Continue to verify that city projects utilize
compost and mulch where specified and
feasible.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate
staff time to reviewing updated specifications.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 78 of 255
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Phase 3, Initiative A - Individual Action Plans for City Departments
December 2, 2021 Page 65 of 129 HF&H Consultants, LLC
CONSUMPTION & USE Identify and realize waste prevention
opportunities in all city government
departments.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Continue to verify and check city project
compliance with contract requirements as it
relates to Waste Management Plan
requirements and maximize C&D diversion.
Continue to verify and check city project
compliance with contract requirements as it
relates to Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance
(WELO).
Continue to default to double-sided print.
Optional:
Provide reminder signage to reduce printer
paper use.
Provide “scratch paper” bin next to printer.
Digitize office functions that would otherwise
require office supplies.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate
staff time to developing and placing appropriate
signage. Designate a “Sustainability” Liaison in
each department to coordinate with the
Sustainable Materials Management (SMM) staff
and other Sustainability Team members, staying
up to date on SMM best practices.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 79 of 255
DRAFT Sustainable Materials Management Implementation Plan
Phase 3, Initiative A - Individual Action Plans for City Departments
December 2, 2021 Page 66 of 129 HF&H Consultants, LLC
Identify and realize material reuse opportunities
in all city government departments.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Continue to verify city project compliance with
specified use of reused or salvaged materials.
Continue to search for used items through city
auction portal and secondhand vendors prior to
purchasing new.
Continue to follow city donation policy for items
to be discarded.
Optional:
Establish dedicated space for office supplies
reuse exchange.
Expand and/or digitize office supplies reuse
exchange.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate
staff time to updating construction specifications
and training employees. Allocate staff time to
reviewing recycling reports from vendors and
coordinating with current and potential recipients
of electronics donations. Allocate staff and/or
volunteer time to maintenance of a reuse office
supply exchange, which may include regular visual
monitoring of a physical exchange.
END-OF-LIFE Expand recycling and organic waste collection in
public areas and venues.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Continue to check compliance with the latest
CALGreen requirements for designing for
accessible areas for recycling and organics.
Review bin signage on acceptable materials for
landfill, recycle, and organics collection.
Optional:
Check with SMM staff for the most up-to-date
recycling information.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate
staff time to coordinating with Sustainable
Materials Management, Engineering, Building, and
Permitting staff regarding city project
specifications. Allocate staff time to familiarizing
all employees with sustainable materials
management best practices, including the most
recent recycling rules.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 80 of 255
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December 2, 2021 Page 67 of 129 HF&H Consultants, LLC
Environmental Management
Existing Conditions and Practices
The Environmental Management Department’s service areas include Sustainable Materials Management,
Habitat Management, Watershed Protection, and Climate Action Planning. The Sustainable Materials
Management Division is responsible for the California Department of Resources, Recycling, and Recovery
(CalRecycle) Annual Report. If the department is provided with sufficient resources, there are various
opportunities to expand sustainable materials management education and technical assistance for other
city departments.
Implementation Strategy UPSTREAM DESIGN & PRODUCTION Maximize the purchase and use of sustainable
materials.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Continue to compile annual diversion data and
evaluate levels of contamination at city
buildings.
Continue to produce customizable template
trash, recycling, and organics signage for internal
city use.
Continue to provide technical assistance to
departments.
Optional:
Purchase refillable pens and dry erase markers.
Purchase rechargeable batteries. Currently,
single use batteries are being utilized.
Purchase bio-based or recycled content
packaging materials.
Purchase from vendor(s) who minimize
packaging and/or utilize recycled packaging.
Expand educational resources and programming
on sustainable materials management.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate
staff time to reviewing and updating product and
service contracts. Coordinate with the Purchasing
Department on purchasing best practices and
reviewing purchasing policies, including the
environmentally preferable purchasing policy.
Allocate staff time to reviewing departmental
office supply purchases and reviewing processes
that require the most office supply use.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 81 of 255
DRAFT Sustainable Materials Management Implementation Plan
Phase 3, Initiative A - Individual Action Plans for City Departments
December 2, 2021 Page 68 of 129 HF&H Consultants, LLC
Ensure at least 75% of city government’s annual
purchases of paper products are recycled
content.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Support Purchasing, Fleet & Facilities, and other
departments in consolidating paper product
purchases.
Purchase minimum 30% recycled content paper
products.
Require vendors providing printing services to
utilize minimum 30% recycled content paper
products.
Optional:
Purchase envelopes without plastic windows to
ensure the envelopes are recyclable.
Purchase paper products that are Forest
Stewardship Council (FSC) certified.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate
staff time to coordinating with the Purchasing
Department and Fleet & Facilities on paper
product purchases and developing and
maintaining a record system compliant with SB
1383. Allocate staff time to cataloguing purchases
of all paper product types.
Annually procure a quantity of recovered organic
waste products that meets or exceeds the city’s
SB 1383 target.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Maximize utilization of compost and mulch made
from organic waste that comply with SB 1383
specifications in roadway erosion control,
bioremediation, stormwater management, and
other relevant applications.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate
staff time to identify sourcing opportunities of SB
1383 compliant compost and mulch.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 82 of 255
DRAFT Sustainable Materials Management Implementation Plan
Phase 3, Initiative A - Individual Action Plans for City Departments
December 2, 2021 Page 69 of 129 HF&H Consultants, LLC
CONSUMPTION & USE Identify and realize waste prevention
opportunities in all city government
departments.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Continue to provide technical assistance to city
government departments to improve waste
prevention practices.
Continue to default to double-sided print.
Optional:
Provide reminder signage to reduce printer
paper use.
Provide “scratch paper” bin next to printer.
Digitize office functions that would otherwise
require office supplies.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate
staff time to coordinating with the Purchasing
Department and all other departments on
identifying alternative products and processes for
waste prevention. Allocate staff time to reviewing
deployed printer settings. Allocate staff time to
developing and placing appropriate signage.
Designate a “Sustainability” Liaison in each
department to coordinate with the Sustainable
Materials Management (SMM) staff and other
Sustainability Team members, staying up to date
on SMM best practices.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 83 of 255
DRAFT Sustainable Materials Management Implementation Plan
Phase 3, Initiative A - Individual Action Plans for City Departments
December 2, 2021 Page 70 of 129 HF&H Consultants, LLC
Identify and realize material reuse opportunities
in all city government departments.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Continue to provide technical assistance to city
government departments to improve material
reuse practices.
Continue to search for used items through city
auction portal and secondhand vendors.
Continue to follow city donation policy for items
to be discarded.
Optional:
Establish dedicated space for building reuse
exchange.
Expand and/or digitize building reuse exchange.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate
staff time to coordinating with the Purchasing
Department and all other departments on
identifying alternative products and processes for
reuse. Allocate staff time to reviewing recycling
reports from vendors and coordinating with
current/potential recipients of electronics
donations. Allocate staff and/or volunteer time to
maintenance of a reuse office supply exchange,
which may include regular visual monitoring of a
physical exchange.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 84 of 255
DRAFT Sustainable Materials Management Implementation Plan
Phase 3, Initiative A - Individual Action Plans for City Departments
December 2, 2021 Page 71 of 129 HF&H Consultants, LLC
END-OF-LIFE Expand recycling and organic waste collection in
public areas and venues.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Continue to periodically update city departments
on recycling and organics collection information.
Review bin signage on acceptable materials for
landfill, recycle, and organics collection.
Optional:
Provide trash, recycling, and organics signage
with text and imagery customized for each
department’s most frequently disposed items.
Check with SMM staff for the most up-to-date
recycling information.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate
staff time to reviewing and updating recycling and
composting signage and educational guides.
Allocate staff time to familiarizing all employees
with sustainable materials management best
practices, including the most recent recycling rules.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 85 of 255
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Fleet & Facilities
Existing Conditions and Practices
The city’s fleet operations has a green fleet policy, and will be replacing about 40 vehicles in 2021. The
city’s janitorial operations that are managed internally demonstrate a number of sustainable materials
management best practices, including its purchasing choices. The janitorial division currently purchases
certified green cleaning products and self-tear paper towel dispensers. A stainless-steel cleaner purchased
in a non-recyclable container is being used, but most products are in recyclable containers. The city-
employed janitorial staff also currently use reusable microfiber cloths, terrycloth towels, and string mops
for wiping surfaces. However, the city also contracts with a third-party janitorial company for some of its
janitorial services, rather than rely entirely on city-employed janitorial staff. Third-party janitorial staff are
not contractually required to use green cleaning products. The city is in the process of increasing its
staffing capacity for providing additional janitorial training for city-employed janitors. The city’s third-
party janitorial contract can be updated upon upcoming expiration to improve training and process
requirements.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 86 of 255
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December 2, 2021 Page 73 of 129 HF&H Consultants, LLC
Implementation Strategy UPSTREAM DESIGN & PRODUCTION Maximize the purchase and use of sustainable
materials.
Annual Report Notes:
Fleet:
Continue to utilize renewable diesel.
Purchase minimum 70% recycled content
lubricating oils and antifreeze, as recommended by
the State of California’s green purchasing
guidelines.
Facilities:
Purchase cleaning products that are Green Seal
certified or EcoLogo certified where possible.
Ensure all coffee/tea packaging is recyclable or
compostable.
Purchase minimum 70% recycled content
lubricating oils and antifreeze, as recommended by
the State of California’s green purchasing
guidelines.
Continue to purchase self-tear or half sheet paper
towels.
Continue to ensure janitorial contractors align with
in-house janitorial requirements.
All Departments:
Purchase refillable pens and dry erase markers.
Purchase rechargeable batteries.
Purchase bio-based or recycled content packaging
materials.
Purchase from preferred vendor(s) who minimize
packaging and/or utilize recycled packaging.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate staff
time to reviewing and updating product and service
contracts. Coordinate with the Purchasing
Department on purchasing best practices and
reviewing purchasing policies, including the
environmentally preferable purchasing policy.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 87 of 255
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Phase 3, Initiative A - Individual Action Plans for City Departments
December 2, 2021 Page 74 of 129 HF&H Consultants, LLC
Ensure at least 75% of city government’s annual
purchases of paper products are recycled content.
Annual Report Notes:
Facilities:
Purchase 30% recycled content janitorial and print
paper products when cost competitive. Save
purchasing records for state reporting
requirements.
Require janitorial and print services to purchase
minimum 30% recycled content paper products.
Purchase 50-100% recycled content janitorial paper
products.
Purchase FSC certified janitorial paper products.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate staff
time to coordinating with Purchasing Department on
janitorial paper product purchases, and developing
and maintaining a record system compliant with SB
1383.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 88 of 255
DRAFT Sustainable Materials Management Implementation Plan
Phase 3, Initiative A - Individual Action Plans for City Departments
December 2, 2021 Page 75 of 129 HF&H Consultants, LLC CONSUMPTION & USE Identify and realize waste prevention opportunities
in all city government departments.
Annual Report Notes:
Facilities:
Provide training on trash, recycle and compost
rules for city-employed janitorial staff.
Ensure that janitorial staff notify supervisor of
overflow issues for any internal or external
receptacles.
Continue to utilize cleaning concentrates to
minimize packaging and/or purchase in bulk.
Require third party janitorial staff to receive
training on trash, recycle and compost rules.
Establish system for janitorial staff to notify supervisor of contamination issues for any internal
or external receptacles.
All Departments:
Continue to default to double-sided print.
Provide reminder signage to reduce printer paper
use.
Provide “scratch paper” bin next to printer.
Digitize office functions that would otherwise
require office supplies.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate staff
time to training janitorial staff on source separation
and new protocols for reporting issues. Allocate staff
time to reviewing deployed printer settings. Allocate
staff time to developing and placing appropriate
signage. Designate a “Sustainability” Liaison in each
department to coordinate with the Sustainable
Materials Management (SMM) staff and other
Sustainability Team members, staying up to date on
SMM best practices.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 89 of 255
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December 2, 2021 Page 76 of 129 HF&H Consultants, LLC
Identify and realize material reuse opportunities in
all city government departments.
Annual Report Notes:
Fleet:
Continue to utilize reusable microfiber cloths for
wiping surfaces.
Facilities:
Continue to repair/replace parts when feasible.
Reuse or repair furniture as feasible. Check with
furniture manufacturers for takeback programs.
All Departments:
Continue to search for items through city auction
portal and secondhand vendors before purchasing
new.
Continue to follow city donation policy for items to
be discarded.
Establish dedicated space for building reuse
exchange.
Expand and/or digitize building reuse exchange.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate staff
time to training contractors and employees. Allocate
staff time to reviewing recycling reports from vendors
and coordinating with current and potential
recipients of electronics donations. Allocate staff
and/or volunteer time to maintenance of a reuse
office supply exchange, which may include regular
visual monitoring of a physical exchange.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 90 of 255
DRAFT Sustainable Materials Management Implementation Plan
Phase 3, Initiative A - Individual Action Plans for City Departments
December 2, 2021 Page 77 of 129 HF&H Consultants, LLC END-OF-LIFE Expand recycling and organic waste collection in
public areas and venues.
Annual Report Notes:
Fleet:
Continue to recycle at minimum the following
vehicle-related materials: motor oil, antifreeze, oil
filters, tires, mixed metal.
Facilities:
Accompany every trash bin with a recycle bin.
Include at least one organics bin in every break
room and kitchen.
Replace interior bins at the end of their useful life
according to the following color requirements:
trash (gray or black), recycle (blue), compost
(green).
Label every bin with “trash”, “recycle”, or
“organics” in coordination with SMM staff that
requires relabeling or is unlabeled.
Include at least one organics bin in every room in
which food is permitted.
Include on signage images of common items placed
in each bin.
Switch from deskside to all centralized waste bins.
Use shadow boxes with physical examples of
commonly discarded items at high-traffic waste
receptacles.
All Departments:
Review bin signage on acceptable materials for
landfill, recycle, and organics collection.
Check with SMM staff for the most up-to-date
recycling information.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Additional
resources may be recommended to adjust the
quantity of receptacles based on usage patterns. It is
recommended that a template for recycling signage
be used, provided by or reviewed by the city’s
Sustainable Materials Management Division. Allocate
staff time to recording the quantity and location of
existing bins and signage, ordering new bins and
signage, and placing new bins and signage. Allocate
staff time to familiarizing all employees with
sustainable materials management best practices,
including the most recent recycling rules.
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Fleet & Facilities – Safety Training Center
Existing Conditions and Practices
The Carlsbad Safety Training Center provides direct support to public safety operations and currently
demonstrates leadership in sustainable materials management. Public safety operations oftentimes
require the use of relatively large quantities of hazardous materials and chemicals. Facilities staff at the
Safety Training Center have found many ways to minimize both hazardous and nonhazardous waste
accumulation by reusing materials and sourcing sustainable materials.
Implementation Strategy UPSTREAM DESIGN & PRODUCTION Maximize the purchase and use of sustainable materials. Annual Report Notes:
Optional:
Continue to utilize high intensity LED lights as a substitute
for flares.
Continue to purchase reusable rubber bullet traps.
Continue to reuse training flash bangs during routine
training events. Recycle steel and aluminum housings when
applicable.
Purchase refillable pens and dry erase markers.
Purchase rechargeable batteries. Currently, single use
batteries are being utilized.
Purchase bio-based or recycled content packaging
materials.
Purchase from preferred vendor(s) who minimize
packaging and/or utilize recycled packaging.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Coordinate with the
purchasing department on purchasing best practices and
reviewing purchasing policies, including the environmentally
preferable purchasing policy. Allocate staff time to reviewing
departmental office supply purchases and reviewing
processes that require the most office supplies.
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Ensure at least 75% of city government’s annual purchases
of paper products are recycled content.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Purchase paper products with 30% minimum
postconsumer recycled content.
Require printing services to use 30% minimum recycled
content.
To the extent feasible, have printed paper products
purchased by the Purchasing Department, and all janitorial
paper products purchased by the Janitorial Department or
Purchasing Department, to reduce the recordkeeping time
required for state reporting requirements such as SB 1383.
Optional:
Purchase envelopes without plastic windows to ensure the
envelopes are recyclable.
Purchase paper products that are Forest Stewardship
Council (FSC) certified.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate staff time to
cataloguing purchases of all paper product types.
CONSUMPTION & USE Identify and realize waste prevention opportunities in all
city government departments.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Continue to default to double-sided print.
Optional:
Provide reminder signage to reduce printer paper use.
Provide “scratch paper” bin next to printer.
Digitize office functions that would otherwise require office
supplies.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate staff time to
reviewing deployed printer settings. Designate a
“Sustainability” Liaison in each department to coordinate
with the Sustainable Materials Management (SMM) staff
and other Sustainability Team members, staying up to date
on SMM best practices.
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government departments.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Continue to search for used items through secondhand
vendors prior to purchasing new, when feasible.
Continue to follow city donation policy for items to be
discarded.
Optional:
Utilize and encourage reusable water bottles for employee
consumption.
Establish dedicated space for office supply reuse exchange.
Expand and/or digitize office supply reuse exchange.
Install drinking fountains with reusable water bottle refill
system.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate staff time to
reviewing recycling reports from vendors and coordinating
with current and potential recipients of electronics donations.
Allocate staff and/or volunteer time to maintenance of a
reuse office supply exchange, which may include regular
visual monitoring of a physical exchange. Consider
purchasing reusable water bottles for employees. Potential
places to donate fire hose include the following:
https://www.hose2habitat.org/
https://www.oxgut.com/
https://www.repurposedmaterialsinc.com/fire-hose/
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December 2, 2021 Page 81 of 129 HF&H Consultants, LLC END-OF-LIFE Expand recycling and organic waste collection in public
areas and venues.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Continue to recycle metals (steel, brass, etc.).
Enable facility renters to request extra organics, recycling,
and trash containers for large training events.
Review bin signage on acceptable materials for landfill,
recycle, and organics collection.
Optional:
Identify if old clothing and equipment can be recycled
(gloves, boots, jackets, etc.).
Check with SMM staff for the most up-to-date recycling
information.
Provide facility users (including outside groups) with
information regarding what materials can be brought in
and discarded, and sorting rules.
Include list of preferred/suggested vendors to outside
groups using the facility.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate staff time to
update facility rental agreements. Allocate staff time to
identify recycling opportunities for clothing and equipment.
Allocate staff time to familiarizing all employees with
sustainable materials management best practices, including
the most recent recycling rules.
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Transportation
Existing Conditions and Practices
In 2017, the City of Carlsbad received grant funding from CalRecycle to utilize recycled tires (Rubberized
Asphalt Concreate, or RAC) in road repairs. This program was discontinued.
Implementation Strategy UPSTREAM DESIGN & PRODUCTION Maximize the purchase and use of sustainable
materials.
Annual Report Notes:
Optional:
Use waterborne acrylic traffic line paint over oil-
based paints where applicable.
Purchase refillable pens and dry erase markers.
Purchase rechargeable batteries. Currently, single
use batteries are being utilized for purposes.
Purchase bio-based or recycled content packaging
materials.
Purchase from vendor(s) who minimize packaging
and/or utilize recycled packaging.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate staff
time to reviewing and updating product and service
contracts. Coordinate with the purchasing
department regarding best practices. Coordinate
with the Purchasing Department on purchasing best
practices and reviewing purchasing policies, including
the environmentally preferable purchasing policy.
Allocate staff time to reviewing departmental office
supply purchases and reviewing processes that
require the most office supply use.
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December 2, 2021 Page 83 of 129 HF&H Consultants, LLC UPSTREAM DESIGN & PRODUCTION Ensure at least 75% of city government’s annual
purchases of all paper products are recycled
content.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Purchase paper products with 30% minimum
postconsumer recycled content.
Require printing services to use 30% minimum
recycled content.
To the extent feasible, have printed paper products
purchased by the Purchasing Department, and all
janitorial paper products purchased by the
Janitorial Department or Purchasing Department,
to reduce the recordkeeping time required for
state reporting requirements such as Senate Bill
1383.
Optional:
Purchase envelopes without plastic windows to
ensure the envelopes are recyclable.
Purchase paper products that are Forest
Stewardship Council (FSC) certified.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate staff
time to cataloguing purchases of all paper product
types.
Annually procure a quantity of recovered organic
waste products that meets or exceeds the city’s SB
1383 target.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Maximize utilization of compost and mulch made
from organic waste that comply with SB 1383
specifications in roadway erosion control for right-
of-ways.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate staff
time to identify sourcing opportunities of SB 1383
compliant compost and mulch. Allocate staff time to
develop educational materials and opportunities.
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CONSUMPTION & USE Identify and realize waste prevention opportunities
in all city government departments.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Continue to default to double-sided print.
Optional:
Provide reminder signage to reduce printer paper
use.
Provide “scratch paper” bin next to printer.
Digitize office functions that would otherwise
require office supplies.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Designate a
“Sustainability” Liaison in each department to
coordinate with the Sustainable Materials
Management (SMM) staff and other Sustainability
Team members, staying up to date on SMM best
practices.
Identify and realize material reuse opportunities in
all city government departments.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Continue to prioritize purchasing used items where
feasible over new items, for example through city
auction portal, secondhand vendors.
Continue to follow city donation policy for items to
be discarded.
Optional:
Continue to have dedicated space for employees to
exchange reusable supplies.
Continue to utilize reclaimed asphalt pavement
(RAP) and recycled asphalt concrete (RAC) where
feasible.
Recycle aggregate (concrete, asphalt) removed
from roadways.
Utilize alternative road materials with recycled or
reused material where feasible.
Expand and/or digitize dedicated space for
employees to exchange supplies.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate staff
time to updating roadway specifications and training
employees. Additional resources may be
recommended for maintenance of a reuse office
supply exchange, which may include regular visual
monitoring of a physical exchange.
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public areas and venues.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Continue to comply with the latest CALGreen
requirements.
Review bin signage on acceptable materials for
landfill, recycle, and organics collection.
Optional:
Check with SMM staff for the most up-to-date
recycling information.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate staff
time to reviewing relevant CALGreen requirements.
Allocate staff time to familiarizing all employees with
sustainable materials management best practices,
including the most recent recycling rules.
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Utilities
Existing Conditions and Practices
The city’s Utilities webpage currently has a public educational video regarding mulching and educational
materials asking residents not to flush single-use wipes down the toilet. Further educational resource
updates can be done in collaboration with the Environmental Management Department. One of the
largest sources of waste for a utilities department can be its water and wastewater infrastructure, at the
end of its useful life. The city’s Utilities Asset Management Plan for 2019 identifies opportunities to slow
erosion of pipelines and take other proactive maintenance measures to prolong the useful life of pipelines.
Implementation Strategy UPSTREAM DESIGN & PRODUCTION Maximize the purchase and use of sustainable
materials.
Annual Report Notes:
Optional:
Purchase refillable pens and dry erase markers.
Purchase rechargeable batteries. Currently, single
use batteries are being utilized.
Purchase bio-based or recycled content packaging
materials.
Purchase from preferred vendor(s) who minimize
packaging and/or utilize recycled packaging.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Coordinate
with the Purchasing Department on purchasing best
practices and reviewing purchasing policies, including
the environmentally preferable purchasing policy.
Allocate staff time to reviewing departmental office
supply purchases and reviewing processes that
require the most office supply use.
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waste products that meets or exceeds the city’s SB
1383 target.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Continue to enable online utility payment.
Maximize utilization of compost and mulch made
from organic waste that comply with SB 1383
specifications in erosion control, bioremediation,
stormwater management, landscape restoration
from construction project, and other relevant
applications.
Optional:
Expand educational resources for mulching and
utilizing compost.
Expand educational resources for extending drainage pipe life (e.g., items that shouldn’t go
down drain).
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate staff
time to identify sourcing opportunities of SB 1383
compliant compost and mulch. Allocate staff time to
develop educational materials and opportunities.
Ensure at least 75% of city government’s annual
purchases of paper products are recycled‐content.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Purchase paper products with 30% minimum
postconsumer recycled content.
Require printing services to use 30% minimum
recycled content.
To the extent feasible, have printed paper products
purchased by the Purchasing Department, and all
janitorial paper products purchased by the
Janitorial Department or Purchasing Department,
to reduce the recordkeeping time required for
state reporting requirements such as Senate Bill
1383.
Optional:
Purchase envelopes without plastic windows to
ensure the envelopes are recyclable.
Purchase paper products that are Forest
Stewardship Council (FSC) certified.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate staff
time to cataloguing purchases of all paper product
types.
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December 2, 2021 Page 88 of 129 HF&H Consultants, LLC CONSUMPTION & USE Identify and realize waste prevention opportunities
in all city government departments.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Continue to default to double-sided print.
Optional:
Provide reminder signage to reduce printer paper
use.
Provide “scratch paper” bin next to printer.
Digitize office functions that would otherwise
require office supplies.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate staff
time to reviewing deployed printer settings. Allocate
staff time to developing and placing appropriate
signage. Designate a “Sustainability” Liaison in each
department to coordinate with the Sustainable
Materials Management (SMM) staff and other
Sustainability Team members, staying up to date on
SMM best practices.
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all city government departments.
Annual Report Notes:
Continue to search for used items through
secondhand vendors before purchasing new.
Continue to reuse or recycle construction materials
(pavement, concrete, soil etc.).
Optional:
Add specifications for where contractors are
permitted to transport reusable/recyclable
materials.
Continue to follow city donation policy for items to
be discarded.
Establish dedicated space for building reuse
exchange.
Expand and/or digitize building reuse exchange.
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate staff
time to updating roadway specifications and training
employees. Allocate staff time to reviewing recycling
reports from vendors and coordinating with current
and potential recipients of electronics donations.
Allocate staff and/or volunteer time to maintenance
of a reuse office supply exchange, which may include
regular visual monitoring of a physical exchange.
END-OF-LIFE Expand recycling and organic waste collection in
public areas and venues.
Annual Report Notes:
Required:
Review bin signage on acceptable materials for
landfill, recycle, and organics collection.
Optional:
Check with SMM staff for the most up-to-date
recycling information.
Continue to maximize scrap metal recycling (e.g.,
fire hydrants)
Implementation and Resourcing Tips: Allocate staff
time to familiarizing all employees with sustainable
materials management best practices, including the
most recent recycling rules.
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PHASE 3, INITIATIVE B – STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT
A. Overview
The City of Carlsbad values community engagement based on the following key principles:
• Members of the public have a right to be involved in decisions affecting their lives.
• City staff provides adequate time and resources to allow for meaningful public involvement.
• The city is responsible for seeking out and facilitating the involvement of those interested or affected
by a decision. The city errs on the side of reaching out to people who might not be interested, to help
ensure potentially interested parties are not missed.
• City staff provides balanced and factual information to the public and does not engage in advocacy.
The Sustainable Materials Management Plan calls for the city to incorporate stakeholder input into the
implementation of the SMMP. This section summarizes the stakeholder engagement conducted to date
to inform the development of this Implementation Plan, along with recommended strategies for ongoing
stakeholder engagement. The city gathered input on the proposed policy initiatives by conducting a
residential and business survey.
B. Community Survey
Godbe Research surveyed 1,436 adults occupying single-family residents in Carlsbad on a variety of topics
related to sustainable materials management and collected demographic information for respondents.
Research Objectives
The research objectives of this public survey were as follows:
• Evaluate resident opinion on the importance of solid waste disposal and recycling services
• Gauge satisfaction with garbage and recycling services
• Assess the public’s awareness and usage of additional recycling services in the city
• Determine potential interest in components of the food scrap recycling and interest in the compost
give-back programs, and assess if current cardboard recycling is meeting customers’ needs
• Assess value of policy proposals for potential implementation in Carlsbad
• Identify any differences in voter support due to demographic and/or voter behavioral characteristics
Methodology Overview
The survey methodology is outlined below:
• Data Collection Method: Landline (42), cell (16), text to online (1,247), and email to online (131)
interviewing
• Survey Dates: January 5 through January 10, 2021
• Interview Length: 17 minutes
• Sample Size: 1,436 Carlsbad Registered Voters and Residents, Adults 18+
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• Margin of Error: ± 2.57% Carlsbad Residents Adults 18+
Highlighted Conclusions
Solid majorities of survey respondents indicated that the policies below would be very or extremely
valuable:
An excerpt of the summary findings of this survey related to Phase 3, Initiative C – Policy Development
proposed policies for the city are included in more detail in the Initiative C section of this Implementation
Plan.
C. Business Survey
Research Objectives
The research objectives of the business survey were as follows:
• Evaluate current business practices related to single-use plastics
• Determine potential benefits and challenges to businesses with proposed policies
• Assess opportunities to support businesses in implementing proposed policies
• Identify any differences in needs and wants based on business type
Methodology Overview
The business survey was distributed electronically by the Innovation & Economic Development
department to businesses in the city, and 55 responses were collected. Businesses responded to the
survey on a voluntary basis and were not randomly sampled.
•Requiring manufacturers of consumer goods to offer recycling for products they make
•E.g., light bulbs, batteries, electronics, appliances, and medical consumables62.6%
•Requiring that retail stores offer recycling for products that they sell
•E.g., light bulbs, batteries, electronics, appliances, and medical consumables59.7%
•Providing an additional drop-off site in Carlsbad
•E.g., textiles, linens, towels, and used clothes58.0%
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Highlighted Conclusions
The results of this business survey include the following:
An excerpt of the summary findings of this survey related to Phase 3, Initiative C – Policy Development
proposed policies are included in more detail in the Initiative C section of this Implementation Plan.
D. Ongoing Engagement Strategies
In addition to continuing surveying engagement strategies, the following engagement strategies have
been identified to prioritize:
Residents
Outreach and engagement with residents will include a multi-faceted approach to educating residents
about issues, engaging them in evaluation of potential solutions, and soliciting their feedback on the
future direction of the city’s Sustainable Materials Management Program.
1. Community Meeting – Develop and facilitate a community meeting (or series) that presents SMM
policy issues, program alternatives, potential cost impacts, and collateral issues related to the new
franchise services and SMM policies under consideration. The city may want to segment meetings
between interest groups and the general public, if possible, in order to maximize participation by the
general public.
2. Neighborhood/HOA Meetings – Utilize the presentations developed for community meetings to work
at a smaller level to present issues to and get input from specific HOAs or neighborhoods. This could
be advertised as available to groups and staff could participate based on requests from existing
community groups.
3. Tabling/Booth at Farmer’s Market or City Events – Attend local farmers markets and/or community
events to engage with them to solicit input using a short-form survey. This survey could be more
focused on collateral implementation issues (e.g. education/outreach, timing, etc.).
Businesses
Outreach and engagement with businesses is more challenging, due to the wide variety of business types
and civic engagement levels, and is necessarily more targeted in nature on those issues that are relevant
to businesses.
•Identified one or more potential benefits to local businesses for proposed policies54%
•Would consider support of the policies to protect the natural environment58%
•May find a rebate or incentive plan helpful in implementing proposed policies28%
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1. Chamber/Carlsbad Village Association/Restaurant Association/Village Voices Workshops – Develop
and facilitate a meeting or series of meetings with one or more business groups in the city. These
meetings would focus on the service, regulatory compliance, and rate issues associated with
businesses in the new franchise and new SMM policies being considered by the city. The goal of the
meetings would be to educate businesses on new compliance requirements, city-proposed solutions,
and to engage them on alternatives and/or cost-saving approaches.
2. Targeted Contacts with Top 5/10 Employers – Perform direct outreach to the government affairs
representatives with the top 5/10 employers in the city to have one-on-one discussions with them
about proposed changes and the impacts on their company. Often these meetings require one or
more follow-up meetings. These meetings could use much of the same collateral education that is
used for the broader business community meetings for education, but the discussion in each meeting
needs to focus on that specific business.
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PHASE 3, INITIATIVE C – POLICY DEVELOPMENT
A. Overview
Initiative C of the Implementation Plan recommends policies that align with the General Plan’s core value
of sustainability. Stakeholder input from the residential and business communities was also solicited for
select policies; Section B below, “Stakeholder Input” provides a summary analysis of stakeholder
responses. After this stakeholder input was reviewed, at the September 21, 2021 City Council meeting,
City Council directed staff to proceed with drafting a policy and implementation proposal for each of the
policies described in Section C, “Approved Polices.” Section D, “Environmental Impact Policies for Future
Consideration” describes additional policy options for City Council to prioritize based on available
resources. Section E, “Summary of Additional Policies for Future Consideration,” outlines policies that can
be considered by City Council in the long-term.
The policy approaches presented in this Phase 3, Initiative C of the SMM Implementation Plan are based
on researching various approaches to each policy area and material type (including options contemplated
in the SMMP as well as additional materials and approaches identified); cataloging example jurisdictions
that have implemented each policy option; and evaluating the effectiveness, feasibility, cost, and impact
of each option. This research and analysis are summarized in Appendices B, C, and D.
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B. Stakeholder Input
The Sustainable Materials Management Plan calls for the city to incorporate stakeholder input into the
implementation of the SMMP.
Residents
HF&H, supported by Godbe Research, managed a public opinion survey measuring the opinions and
attitudes of single-family adult residents of Carlsbad regarding existing SMM related services, potential
new services, and citywide policy. There were 1,436 survey respondents, who responded via landline
phone, cell phone, or online. Survey responses rating the value of various new potential city policies and
programs related to sustainable materials management are summarized in the below graph:
Figure 7: Public Opinion Survey Responses Assessing Value of Select Policies
Businesses
HF&H and city staff developed a survey for local businesses assessing their perspectives on policies
proposed in this Implementation Plan. The Innovation & Economic Development Department assisted
with distribution of the survey. There were 55 survey respondents, who responded online. Businesses
responded on a voluntary basis and were not randomly selected. Survey responses are summarized in
the below graphs:
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Figure 8: Business Survey Responses - Which of the following resources would be useful to you in
implementing a transition to reusable and/or compostable straws, cutlery, cups, food takeout
containers, and/or bags?
Figure 9: Business Survey Responses - For which of the following reasons would you consider
supporting a single-use plastic food service ware, water bottle, and/or material ban?
Figure 10: Business Survey Responses - What challenges might your business face in implementing a
phase-out of single-use plastic food service ware?
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Figure 11: Business Survey Responses - What challenges might your business face in implementing a
phase-out of single-use plastic bags?
Figure 12: Business Survey Responses - How might your business benefit from a single-use plastic
bottles, bags, or food service ware ban?
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C. Approved Policies
City staff was directed by City Council at the September 21, 2021 Council meeting to develop the single-
use plastic material ban and use restriction policies included in this section. City Council also directed staff
to create a detailed Road Map based on the estimated resources required as outlined in this Section, for
fully implementing the approved policies. In addition to the increased landfill diversion and greenhouse
gas (GHG) reduction benefits catalogued in this Initiative C, single-use plastic material bans and use
restrictions have the following benefits:
• Reduce marine pollution and protect wildlife from plastics that degrade into small pieces.
• Increase city cleanliness and quality of life by reducing litter on city beaches and public areas.
• Stimulate the local economy by creating a more attractive environment for tourists.
• Reduce city costs for litter clean-up.
The overview of approved policies in the subsections below include what products will be regulated and
which types of entities would be required to comply with the policy. Strategies for education and
enforcement for each policy option are included in Initiative D. For all policies listed in this section, it is
recommended to implement an education-focused phase-in approach prior to enforcement of policies,
and include exemption options, such as for those with medical conditions or disabilities, and temporary
waivers for emergency response. Furthermore, each of the recommended policies are classified into one
of the following tiers:
• Leader: Aligns with policies of jurisdictions in the state, and in some cases in the nation or world, that
are leaders in sustainable material management.
• Customary Practice: Policies that have either been replicated in multiple jurisdictions and are
commonly used, and/or represent the “middle ground” of actions that may be taken.
• Minimum Action: Policies the city can take to demonstrate a step in the direction of sustainable
materials management.
Appendix G includes a Road Map for each of the approved policies – a plastic food service ware and
expanded polystyrene material ban, a plastic beverage bottle material ban, a plastic bag material ban, and
a restriction on the intentional release of balloons. The Road Map describes the steps necessary to draft
each ordinance, solicit and incorporate stakeholder feedback, educate impacted entities, and enforce
each policy. In addition, the Road Map outlines a staggered approach to implement the policies in
recognition of the need for additional SMM staffing resources to be onboarded prior to policy
implementation.
Figure 5 below summarizes the estimated impacts and resources required for the policies described.
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Figure 5: Summary of Approved Policies1
Approved Policy 1 - Material Ban: Plastic Food Service Ware (FSW) and
Expanded Polystyrene (EPS)
This Implementation Plan recommends a combined approach for single-use plastic FSW and EPS, as
described in the table below. Note that on October 5, 2021, California State Assembly Bill 1276 was signed
into law; the bill prohibits any food facility or a third-party food delivery platform (i.e., UberEATS,
GrubHub, DoorDash, etc.) in the state from providing any single-use food service ware to consumers
unless requested by the consumer. This bill is aligned with the “Skip the Stuff” policies previously proposed
by the nonprofit coalition Reusable L.A. AB 1276 does not preclude jurisdictions from passing more
stringent local ordinances, and the proposal below goes beyond the scope of AB 1276.
1 Resource estimates as of December 2021
Material Bans Use Restriction Total
FSW & EPS Bottles Bags Balloons (of available
data)
Diversion Tons 1,196 167 780 N/A 2,143
% of Disposal Stream 0.73% 0.10% 0.48% Data not available 0.44%
GHG Reduction
(MTCO2e) 2,781 526 2,449 N/A 5,756
Implementation Cost
Estimate $50-60K $15-20K $50-60K $15-20k $130-160K
Ongoing Cost Estimate $90K-235K $20-34K $108- 273K $25-$30K $243-$572K
FTE Estimate 1.3 0.3 0.5 0.4 2.5 FTE
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Policy Approaches Proposed
Potential Benefits Resources
Required2
Customary Practice
Policy Type: Material ban on single-use plastic
and EPS food service ware, and accessory FSW
(cutlery, straws, etc.)
Regulated Products: Single-use plastic and EPS
FSW, both Primary (cups, containers, etc.) and
Accessory FSW (cutlery, straws, stirrers, etc.)
Regulated Entities: City facilities/events and all
prepared food and beverage providers (e.g.,
restaurants, cafes, hotels, and other vendors).
Applies to dine-in, take-out, drive-through, and
delivery (including delivery apps)
Landfill Reduction
Potential:
1,196 tons3
% of Carlsbad Disposal
Stream: 0.73%
Greenhouse Gas (GHG)
Emissions Reduction
Potential: 369 metric
tons of carbon dioxide
equivalent (MTCO2e)4
Implementation Cost
Estimate:
$50k - $60k
Ongoing Cost
Estimate:
$90k - $235k
Ongoing FTE Estimate:
1.3 FTE
2 Resource estimates as of December 2021
3All diversion estimates in this Implementation Plan are based on the average portion of the waste
stream each material represented in the City of Oceanside’s 2018 Waste Characterization study and
CalRecycle’s 2018 Disposal-Facility-Based Characterization of Solid Waste in California
(https://www2.calrecycle.ca.gov/Publications/Details/1666), or CalRecycle Characterization data when
City of Oceanside data was unavailable, and Carlsbad disposal tons from 2020 as reported to CalRecycle.
4All GHG emissions estimates in this Implementation Plan are based on emissions factors from the
Environmental Protection Agency’s Waste Reduction Model (WARM) Tool
(https://www.epa.gov/warm/versions-waste-reduction-model-warm#WARMToolV14). The GHG
reductions estimated in this Implementation Plan should not be considered as part of the GHG
emissions inventory in the Carlsbad Climate Action Plan.
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Approved Policy 2 - Material Ban: Plastic Beverage Bottles
While jurisdiction-wide bans on the sale of single-use plastic beverage bottles are very uncommon,
some jurisdictions – including several in San Diego County – have restricted the sale of plastic water
bottles for city operations. Examples include the City of Solana Beach and the City of Encinitas. The
proposed policy approach below is similar to those implemented in Solana Beach and Encinitas, with an
expansion in scope from city-sponsored events to any event requiring a special events permit from the
city.
Policy Approaches Proposed
Potential Benefits Resources
Required5
Customary Practice
Policy Type: Material Ban
Regulated Products: Plastic beverage bottles
Regulated Entities: City facilities/events and
public events that either use city facilities or
require a city special event permit
Landfill Reduction
Potential:6
167 tons
% of Disposal Stream:
0.1%
GHG Emissions
Reduction Potential:
526 MTCO2e
Implementation Cost
Estimate:
$15k-$20k
Ongoing Cost
Estimate:
$20k-$34k
Ongoing FTE Estimate:
0.3 FTE
5 Resource estimates as of December 2021
6 Note that because the proposed policy only applies to City facilities and events, this number reflects
only a portion of plastic bottles currently estimated to be disposed.
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Approved Policy 3 - Material Ban: Plastic Bags
According to Californians Against Waste, at least 150 jurisdictions across the state have implemented
local plastic bag ban ordinances. The state also prohibits grocery stores and other select regulated
entities from providing single-use carryout bags (SB 270). The proposal below goes beyond the scope of
SB 270.
Policy Approaches Proposed
Potential Benefits Resources
Required7
Leader
Policy Type: Material Ban. Optional: include bag
fee
Regulated Products: Retail point-of-sale plastic
bags and restaurant plastic takeout bags
Regulated Entities: Expanding beyond current
state requirements to all grocery stores, retail
stores, and restaurants
Landfill Reduction
Potential:
780 tons
% of Disposal Stream:
0.48%
GHG Emissions
Reduction Potential:
2,449 MTCO2e
Implementation Cost
Estimate:
$50k - $60k
Ongoing Cost
Estimate:
$108k - $273k
Ongoing FTE Estimate:
0.5 FTE
Approved Policy 4 – Use Restriction: Intentional Release of Balloons
While the state prohibits the release of Mylar balloons outdoors, use restrictions on single-use plastic
balloons more broadly, such as the release of all single-use plastic balloons, are relatively uncommon.
However, several cities in California have passed, or are considering passing, related ordinances since
2019. The proposed approach below is aligned with the approach taken by the City of Ventura.
Policy Approaches Proposed
Potential Benefits Resources
Required8
Leader
Policy Type: Use Restriction
Regulated Products: Mylar, plastic, and latex
balloons inflated with helium or any other gas
lighter than air.
Regulated Entities: Throughout the city
Landfill Reduction
Potential:
N/A
% of Disposal Stream:
Data not available
GHG Emissions
Reduction Potential:
N/A
Implementation Cost
Estimate:
$15k - $20k
Ongoing Cost
Estimate:
$25k - $30k
Ongoing FTE Estimate:
0.4 FTE
7 Resource estimates as of December 2021
8 Resource estimates as of December 2021
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D. Recommended Policies with High Environmental Impact for
Future Consideration
The policy recommendations below are based on research and identification of target materials that have
a relatively high environmental impact, particularly by increasing landfill diversion to achieve the city’s
sustainable materials management diversion goals. Based on future direction from City Council, these
policy approaches could be further refined and analyzed, and expanded into draft ordinances for approval.
These policy recommendations include the products that would be regulated and which types of entities
would be required to comply with the policy. Strategies for education and enforcement for each policy
option are included in Initiative D. For all policies listed in this section, it is recommended to implement
an education-focused phase-in approach prior to enforcement of policies. Furthermore, each of the
recommended policy options are classified into one of the following tiers:
• Leader: Aligns with policies of jurisdictions in the state, and in some cases in the nation or world, that
are leaders in sustainable material management.
• Customary Practice: Policies that have either been replicated in multiple jurisdictions and are
commonly used, and/or represent the “middle ground” of actions that may be taken.
• Minimum Action: Policies the city can take to demonstrate a step in the direction of sustainable
materials management.
Figure 6 below summarizes the estimated impacts and resources required for the policies described.
Figure 6: Summary of Recommended Policies with High Environmental Impact9
9 Resource estimates as of December 2021
Disposal Bans Total
C&D Carpet Mattresses Textiles (of available data)
Diversion Tons 13,352 2,215 1,142 5,579 22,288
% of Disposal
Stream 8.18% 0.10% 0.70% 3.42% 1.41%
GHG Reduction
(MTCO2e) 48 Data not
available
Data not
available
Data not
available 48
Implementation
Cost Estimate $60-70K $50-70K $50-70K $50-70K $210-280K
Ongoing Cost
Estimate $77-158K $50-$200K $50-$200K $50-
$200K $227-$758K
FTE Estimate 1 0.8 0.2 0.5 2.5 FTE
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High Environmental Impact Policy 1 - Disposal Ban: Construction and
Demolition (C&D)
Disposal bans are a materials management policy tool that prohibit the disposal of certain material types.
The State of California currently has disposal bans on many material types, particularly hazardous waste,
but jurisdictions across the state are taking further action by banning the disposal of items at the local
level in order to promote reuse or recycling of those items. The city’s SMMP specifically suggests banning
disposal of C&D materials at the Palomar Transfer Station and through the city’s commercial and
residential collection system. Such a ban would support ensuring compliance with the 65% minimum C&D
diversion target of the California Green Building Code (CALGreen), which is also required by SB 1383.
Collection programs and Palomar Transfer Station recovery operations exist for C&D debris generated in
Carlsbad. While some of that material is recovered, substantial quantities are still being landfilled. As
stated in the SMMP, “one of the most efficient and cost-effective means for increasing diversion is to
maximize the recovery of materials through existing recycling programs.”
Policy Options Proposed
Potential Benefits Resources
Required10
Customary Practice
Policy Type: Disposal ban and increased diversion
requirements. Optional: Include deconstruction
requirement and/or deposit fee in permit system
Regulated Products: C&D that is organic waste
and/or is readily recyclable (e.g., asphalt,
concrete, and other recyclable inerts)
Regulated Entities: Haulers, self-haulers, facility
owners, contractors, etc.
Landfill Reduction
Potential:
13,352 tons
% of Disposal Stream:
8.18%
GHG Emissions
Reduction Potential:
48 MTCO2e
Implementation Cost
Estimate: $60k - $70k
Ongoing Cost Estimate:
$77k - $158k
Ongoing FTE Estimate:
1.0 FTE
10 Resource estimates as of December 2021
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High Environmental Impact Policy 2 - Disposal Ban: Carpet
A carpet disposal ban is also recommended for prioritization, based on the material’s estimated relative
significance in the city’s overall waste stream and the availability of alternatives to disposing of these
materials. This recommendation is preliminary; if City Council directs staff to proceed in examining this
option, further research and analysis is required to refine the estimate of additional resources required,
and the scope of the policy, including the scope of regulated entities and carpet products subject to this
policy.
AB 2398 established California’s statewide carpet stewardship program. The law includes a requirement
that, effective January 1, 2019, all carpet sold or shipped/distributed in California must have a fee assessed
at the point of sale of $0.35 per square yard in order to fund the program. Carpet America Recovery Effort
(CARE) manages the program. Retailers shall not sell carpet from non-compliant manufacturers.
Policy Approaches Proposed
Potential Benefits Resources
Required11
Leader
Policy Type: Disposal Ban
Regulated Products: Readily recyclable carpet
Regulated Entities: Transfer and processing
facility owners and operators
Landfill Reduction
Potential:
2,215 tons
% of Disposal Stream:
0.1%
GHG Emissions
Reduction Potential:
Data not available.
Implementation Cost
Estimate:
Preliminary range of
$50K-$70K
Ongoing Cost
Estimate:
Preliminary range of
$50K-$200K
Ongoing FTE Estimate:
Preliminary range of
0.8 FTE*
*Note: FTE estimate assumes efficiencies gained in combination with implementing a C&D debris ban. If a
C&D debris ban is not implemented in tandem, this FTE estimate will need to be increased.
11 Resource estimates as of December 2021
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High Environmental Impact Policy 3 - Disposal Ban: Mattresses
A mattress disposal ban is recommended for prioritization, based on the material’s estimated relative
significance in the city’s overall waste stream and the availability of alternatives to disposing of these
materials. This recommendation is preliminary; if City Council directs staff to proceed in examining this
option, further research and analysis is required to refine the estimate of additional resources required,
and the scope of the policy, including the scope of regulated entities and carpet products subject to this
policy.
It is estimated that millions of mattresses and box springs reach the end of their lives in California every
year. The bulky nature of mattresses and the lack of affordable, convenient recycling options has resulted
in significant illegal dumping costs to local jurisdictions throughout the state. Fortunately, used mattresses
are highly recyclable (between 80-90% of each mattress by weight), and certain components such as steel
and polyurethane have market value. California’s Used Mattress Recovery and Recycling Act currently
requires mattress manufacturers to create a statewide recycling program for mattresses and box springs.
Policy Approaches Proposed
Potential Benefits Resources
Required12
Leader
Policy Type: Disposal Ban
Regulated Products: Readily recyclable
mattresses
Regulated Entities: Transfer and processing
facility owners and operators
Landfill Reduction
Potential:
1,142 tons
% of Disposal Stream:
0.70%
GHG Emissions
Reduction Potential:
Data not available.
Implementation Cost
Estimate:
Preliminary range of
$50K-$70K
Ongoing Cost
Estimate:
Preliminary range of
$50K-$200K
Ongoing FTE Estimate:
Preliminary range of
0.2 FTE
12 Resource estimates as of December 2021
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High Environmental Impact Policy 4 - Disposal Ban: Textiles
A textiles disposal ban is recommended for prioritization, based on the material’s estimated relative
significance in the city’s overall waste stream and the presence of textile disposal bans in other
jurisdictions. This recommendation is preliminary; if City Council directs staff to proceed in examining this
option, further research and analysis is required to refine the estimate of additional resources required,
and the scope of the policy, including the scope of regulated entities and carpet products subject to this
policy.
According to CalRecycle’s 2014 Disposal-Facility-Based Characterization of Solid Waste report, more than
1.24 million tons of textiles were disposed in California landfills in 2014, making textiles the sixth most
prevalent material type in the overall disposed waste stream and comprise 4% of landfilled waste. Every
year, Californians spend more than $70 million to dispose of used textiles in landfills. 95% of this material
is reusable or recyclable.
CalRecycle defines "textiles" to mean items made of thread, yarn, fabric, or cloth. Examples include
clothes, fabric trimmings, draperies, and all natural and synthetic cloth fibers. This waste type does not
include cloth-covered furniture, mattresses, leather shoes, leather bags, or leather belts.
Policy Approaches Proposed Potential Benefits Resources
Required13
Leader
Policy Type: Disposal Ban
Regulated Products: Readily recyclable textiles
Regulated Entities: Large textile generators
Landfill Reduction
Potential:
5,579 tons
% of Disposal Stream:
3.42%
GHG Emissions
Reduction Potential:
Data not available.
Implementation Cost
Estimate:
Preliminary range of
$50K-$70K
Ongoing Cost
Estimate:
Preliminary range of
$50K-$200K
Ongoing FTE Estimate:
Preliminary range of
0.5 FTE
13 Resource estimates as of December 2021
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E. Summary of Additional Policies for Future Consideration
The below additional material types have been selected for consideration by City Council due to their
difficulty and cost to manage in solid waste collection systems, and/or local environmental impact
including pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Policy types have been selected based on the level of
difficulty and cost to recycle or manage the material. Research and analyses regarding the below policies
is included in Appendix F of this Implementation Plan.
Resources: Each additional policy is estimated to require an additional 0.25 – 1.5 Full Time Equivalent
staffing resource.
Figure 13. Additional Policy Options for City Council Consideration
Material Bans
A. Cigarette/Tobacco Products
B. Paper Receipts, Phone Books, and Mail
C. Single-Serving Beverage Pods
Disposal Bans
A. Recyclables or Household Hazardous Waste
B. Organic Materials
Take Back Ordinances
A. Batteries
B. Fluorescent Light Bulbs
C. Pharmaceuticals and Sharps
D. Plastic Packaging
E. Solar Panels
F. Tobacco Waste
G. Additional Materials
• Automotive Parts
• Contact Lenses
• Disposable Wipes
• E-waste
• Ink Cartridges
• Mercury Products/Thermostats
• Paint
• Personal Care Products
Extended Producer Responsibility Advocacy
Advocate for:
A. Policies of product stewardship organizations
B. Packaging and product design policies
C. Regional initiatives
Incentive-Based Policies
A. C&D Debris Deposit
B. Litter Abatement Fees
C. Microplastics and Microfibers
D. Reusable Food Service Ware (e.g., grant)
E. Small Homes Building Incentives
F. Tap Water Incentive
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PHASE 3, INITIATIVE D – PUBLIC OUTREACH AND EDUCATION
A. Overview
The SMMP calls for the city to expand its current public education and outreach efforts into a
comprehensive Sustainable Materials Management Public Education, Outreach, and Technical Assistance
Program. The city’s current and past programs include, but are not limited to, a Recycling Champion
Program for businesses, Recycling Guide (printed, distributed and online), online printable signage, Green
Business Program, and business and multi-family site visits. Some of these outreach tasks are performed
by a third-party contractor.
This Initiative D of the Implementation Plan includes an updated education and outreach plan which is
divided into seven program areas. Each program area includes recommended education, outreach, and
technical assistance program elements, and detailed guidance. A list of the main program elements
developed is provided in Figure 14 below. The additional resources required for Initiative D have been
integrated into the resource estimates for Phase 2, SB 1383 Compliance and Phase 3, Initiative C, Develop
Policies, and are therefore not indicated separately in this section.
Each program should be considered as a part of a larger campaign to help the city reach its goals. Effective
education and outreach campaigns do not solely rely on digital and print media as the main forms of
communication. Instead, community based social marketing and direct contact with the community is
needed to instill long lasting behavior change. When building a campaign, multiple points of contact with
the public will ensure that the program “casts a wider net” and reaches more residents, while also nudging
and encouraging change. When planning a holistic campaign, staff should aim to have two to three
“contact points.” For example, if trying to reduce pizza box contamination in the curbside recycling bin,
the city could send out a mailer informing why pizza boxes do not go in the recycling bin (contact point 1),
place a sticker or label on the recycling bin to remind residents at the point of contact (contact point 2),
and provide a stamp template or label to local pizza shops to stamp on the box reminding their customers
which bin to discard the pizza box (contact point 3). Contact point 3 takes an additional level of
coordination and effort that can be done in the long-term over the life of the campaign.
This plan focuses on program elements that could be implemented in the short-term (6 months – 2 years)
and medium term (2 – 4 years) from the point of adoption. The emphasis on these activities is to help city
staff prioritize activities that use currently available resources effectively and still have the greatest
community impact. Short- and medium-term activities can be built on as the city establishes new behavior
changes within the community and refines city protocols and procedures. Long-term activities (5 or more
years) that look to further engage city residents and businesses, but would need additional funding,
planning time, and staff resources, are listed in Appendix F.
A comprehensive public education, outreach, and technical assistance program is essential to achieving
the goals of the city’s SMMP. Providing resources and tools to the residents and visitors of Carlsbad will
engage the community in the city’s sustainability efforts and extend the benefits of sustainable
programming to every individual. Through this education, outreach, and technical assistance
programming, the city will accelerate a shift towards zero-waste and sustainable materials management
that is both lasting and impactful.
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Figure 14. Recommended Public Education, Outreach, and Technical Assistance Program Elements
Note: A “✓” indicates that the program element has been fully or partially delegated through the city’s
franchise agreement and/or Palomar Transfer Station operating agreement.
SMM
Component
Program
Area
Program Elements
UPSTREAM
DESIGN &
PRODUCTION
Sustainable
Purchasing • Sustainable
Purchasing Guide
• City Employee
Training
• Internal Policy
Communication
• Annual Presentations or
Meetings
• Purchasing Policy Education
✓ Community Campaigns
• Rebates and Vouchers
CONSUMPTION
& USE
Reuse ✓ Basic Information
Campaign
• Reuse Calendar
• Reusable Cup Campaign
• Reusable Products
Distribution
• Repair Café/Fixit Clinic
• Art Show/Contest
Food
Recovery • “Save the Food”
Campaign
• Food Recovery and
Safety Guides
• Food Rescue Webpage
• Food Recovery Video Series
END-OF-LIFE
MANAGEMENT
Source
Separation
✓ Business
Assessments
✓ Multi-family
Assessments
• Ambassador Program
Hard to
Handle
Materials
• Drop off map
✓ Red/Green Tag
Program
ALL
Multiuse
Programs
✓ Recycling Hotline
✓ “How do I recycle
this?” Search Engine
✓ Educational Programming
✓ Annual Mailers/Bill inserts
Business
Technical
Assistance
✓ Workshops
✓ Phone Assessments
✓ On-Site Assessments
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B. Sustainable Purchasing
Program Element Time
frame
Description Strong Examples
Sustainable
Purchasing Guide -
Public
Short-
term
Develop broad guide to aide
residential and consumer purchasing
decisions
King County, WA
Sustainable Purchasing
Guide: oriented for city
use, but available
publicly. Housed on its
own web page/portal
where products and
sections can be added
City Employee
Training
Short-
term
Create materials to be included in
new-employee onboarding.
King County, WA has a
very simple/general
video for their internal
purchasing guide.
Internal Policy
Communication
Short-
term
Send periodic reminders to city staff
about the sustainable purchasing
guidelines and updates.
Oregon State
sustainable
procurement guide is
very comprehensive.
Annual Presentations
or Meetings
Medium-
term
Periodic in-person meetings to present
the guide, gain feedback, and
emphasize how the guide contributes
to the city’s overall goals.
Alameda County, CA
hosts regular “Green
Purchasing Round
Tables.”
Purchasing Policy
Education
Short-
term
Provide education on the city’s
sustainable purchasing policy.
Portland, OR has
extensive educational
resources on their
policy.
Community
Campaigns
Medium-
term
Multi-faceted campaign for consumer
purchasing including print/media and
workshops.
City of Santa Monica, CA
piloted the campaign
with city employees
before expanding it to
the wider community.
Rebates and
Vouchers
Medium-
term
Direct community to existing state or
federal rebates, vouchers, or
discounted materials that encourages
residents or businesses to invest in
sustainable infrastructure
improvements.
Boulder, CO refunds up
to $250 per event for
purchase of eligible
compostable products
or collection, and/or
education services at
permitted events.
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Public Purchasing Guide
Learning from the city’s new sustainable purchasing program on how to make sustainable purchasing
decisions, as well as more broad criteria for purchases, will translate into a public-facing purchasing guide.
A guide to help commercial businesses and residents make smarter choices may alleviate environmental
stresses downstream. Housing the guide on the city website will make it easier to update and maintain as
future items and categories are added. Likewise, the city could include the city purchasing guide online so
that businesses who have similar operations to city departments may utilize those purchasing guidelines
for their own business. Considerations for a sustainable purchasing guide for the public are very similar to
those identified above for the city purchasing guide. If the city chooses to make their purchasing guide
easily accessible to the public online, a few additional considerations should be taken.
Major considerations for this program include:
a. Development of criteria. A set of criteria will help to determine if a product or vendor will be included
in the guide (e.g., state standards, eco labels, EPA guidelines etc.). These criteria will be important in
researching and vetting potential vendors and products fairly.
b. Products to include. What product will be included? A public guide will likely be broader so that it can
serve a much wider range of business and resident’s needs.
c. Communication responsibility. Who will field public questions? Who in the city will be available as a
resource if the public has questions about the sustainable purchasing guide?
d. Updates. Will the guide be updated on an on-going basis, bi-annually, annually or another time frame?
Who will be responsible for updating the guide? How will the city know what items to add or update?
City Employee Training
Educating new employees during their onboarding allows the sustainable purchasing program to become
engrained into the culture of the city. The Human Resources (HR) Department has begun transitioning to
virtual trainings through a series of videos. Considerations for devising a video dedicated to sustainable
purchasing can be included in the suite of videos new employees watch when they join the organization.
Major considerations for this program include:
a. Video production. Does the HR Department already have a vendor they are using to create the virtual
training videos? If so, then the Sustainable Materials Management Department can provide the script
and work with the HR Department about executing the video.
b. Script. What should the script say? Arguably the most important aspect of the virtual training video.
The video should focus on the importance of the sustainable purchasing guide, and how to find and
use it, as opposed to being specific for each department.
c. Longevity. An editable version of the video should be maintained to limit ongoing upkeep.
Internal City Policy Communication (Written and In-Person)
Educating and creating behavior change within city operations should be conducted similarly to public-
facing programs. This includes reminders and awareness campaigns to all city staff.
Major considerations for this program include:
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a. Periodic reminders. How often should employees be reminded about the purchasing policy? Once the
guide is implemented the city should send a series of initial reminders about the new purchasing
guidelines to inform staff of where to find it, and any updates that are made once the purchasing
guide goes live.
b. In person meetings or workshops. How often and for which departments should Staff hold in-person
meetings to inform and discuss the purchasing guide and policy? Will feedback from departments
enhance the purchasing policy or should the meetings remain informative only?
Administrative Order
If they city wishes to memorialize and mandate the commitment to sustainable purchasing, it may draft
and implement an administrative order.
Major considerations for this program include:
a. Flexibility for innovation. When planning to make purchasing guidelines mandatory, leave room for
new innovations in the likely case a new product becomes available on the market. Flexibility in the
plan will be crucial as the demand and market for sustainably made goods increases across the State
of California.
b. Employee Input. Who will this order effect the most? Who should staff consult and gain input from
when drafting the order?
Community Campaigns
Sustainable purchasing in the consumer space is very broad and can often be overwhelming. A print or
media campaign tied to a workshop that has a narrow focus on specific aspects of sustainable purchasing
would empower residents to make smart and informed purchasing decisions.
Major considerations for this program include:
a. Identifying a campaign. A challenge is identifying what is most relevant to residents in the city and
what the campaign should focus on. Public surveys may be one way to identify what is relevant to the
community and what purchasing questions they have that are the most pressing. Seasonal purchasing
may be another focus area. Communicating with the City Hauler and Processor regarding seasonal
changes in the waste stream or high-volume items that could become the focus of a campaign. For
example, during the winter holiday season a campaign could identify sustainable gift choices or
attributes, how to make sustainable decoration and party ware choices, or inspire recycled gift
wrapping.
b. Location. Where should outreach be placed to get the most impact? For sustainable purchasing, the
aim should be to get the educational materials close to the point of sale. For instance, if a campaign
in spring is focused on lawn and garden care products, provide posters or materials to the local garden
and hardware stores so their customers receive information when they are thinking about buying
those products. For a holiday purchasing campaign, work with Carlsbad Village to put up posters or
light post banners so that residents who are shopping see the information when it is most relevant to
them.
c. Collateral. Where the materials are placed will likely dictate whether materials are produced in print
or digital form. Messaging on the materials should not only be informative but communal. If residents
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believe that their neighbors are also participating in the campaign, they are more likely to conform to
the behavior as well.
d. Information. In addition to identifying the campaign, what information specifically is the city trying to
relay? Is the focus on the recyclability of products, or education on eco-labels, or minimizing
packaging?
e. Direct engagement. In addition to static messaging, the city may want to consider engaging with
residents directly. Some ways to directly engage with residents include setting up a booth at a market
or event, putting on a workshop, or tabling in front of local shops. For example, the city could set up
a booth near retail shops displaying recycled or upcycled gift wrapping. The city can partner with local
organizations as part of direct engagement efforts.
Rebates and Vouchers
There are numerous programs at the state and federal level for residents to receive rebates or discounts
on sustainable purchases. A page on the city website, or a page in the sustainable purchasing guide
directing residents to these existing programs is a simple way to encourage the community to buy more
sustainable products and upgrade to more energy and water efficient programs. An extension of this
program in the long-term could include the city offering rebates and vouchers for specific products.
Major considerations for this program include:
a. Research. The most time intensive aspect of this program is to research and verify available
programs, qualifications, and webpage set up.
b. Updates. How often and who will update the list?
c. Access. Where on the city website would this be most accessible to those who are looking for
resources?
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C. Reuse
Program Element Time
frame
Description Strong Examples
Basic Information
Campaign
Short-
term
Provide resources on the city-
website. Also includes a series of
promotional campaigns to tackle
specific topics.
City of Vancouver, WA has
a very simple yet effective
"Holiday Recycling and
Reuse" campaign page.
Reuse Calendar Medium-
term
Maintain an updated electronic
calendar to promote city and/or
partner events locally or regionally
regarding reuse.
N/A
Reusable Cup
Campaign
Medium-
term
Promote a reuse campaign.
Recruiting local coffee shops to
participate in and accept reusable
coffee cups from customers.
Santa Clara County ran a
“Remember Your Cup”
campaign in partnership
with Gigantic Idea Studio.
Reusable Products
Distribution
Medium-
term
Distribute city-branded or campaign-
branded reusable items at city
events.
N/A
Repair Café/Fixit
Clinic
Medium-
term
Hold city-hosted repair events to
bring the community together to
learn how to repair household goods.
Zero Waste San Diego/San
Diego County, CA hosted
Fixit Clinics.
Art Show/Contest Medium-
term
Host an art show where the entries
are made from reusable or recycled
materials. Can be schools focused, or
city-wide.
Examples of entry
requirements, age
brackets, art show
themes, and judging
criteria can be found from
the NOAA Marine Art
Contest, York County, PA
Earth Day Recycled Art
Contest, and Allen, TX
Recycled Art Contest
Gallery.
Basic Information Campaign
The main goal of a reuse campaign is to keep useable materials circulating in the community by donating,
repairing, or refurbishing household goods. With such a large goal, it is more effective for reuse campaigns
to be broken down into manageable components with focused goals. For example, focusing on repairing
small electronics by informing residents of fix-it clinics, promoting local repair shops, or highlighting online
resources for repairs through platforms such as iFixit.
Major considerations for this program include:
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a. Finding the baseline. What is the current understanding of reuse and repair among residents and
businesses in the city? How can city staff ascertain that baseline (through surveys, waste
characterization, or meeting with the hauler and processor) to assess what the highly prevalent,
reusable items showing up in the waste stream that could be addressed as the first campaign focus?
b. Existing infrastructure. What infrastructure is already in place for reuse and repair programming?
Does the Hauler or Processor interact with reuse infrastructure? What role can the Hauler or
Processor play in creating or connecting infrastructure for reuse (e.g., warehouse space, transport
between customers, and reuse centers)?
c. Location. Where in the city and what media platforms will be effective in advertising reuse ideas and
programs?
Reuse Calendar
A reuse calendar can be a stand-alone calendar on the city website or added to the main city calendar. It
may be used as an avenue to advertise local businesses and events being put on throughout the city.
Major considerations for this program include:
a. Partners. Who are the potential partners in the city and how will city staff find them?
b. Focused. Should the reuse calendar be city-only focused or expand to other nearby cities?
c. Updates. Who will be tasked with updating the calendar, and how can community partners submit an
event to be added to the calendar?
Reusable Cup Campaign
Another example of breaking the reuse education program into smaller campaigns is a reusable cup
campaign. The city can promote the use of reusable coffee cups by partnering with local coffee shops.
Major considerations for this program include:
a. Incentive for businesses. What will incentivize businesses to participate? The city should
emphasize benefits to the businesses to encourage participation. For example, businesses may
benefit from additional promotion through the city’s campaign. Reducing to-go cups can have
some fiscal impact both at the front end (buying less cups) and the back end (producing less trash).
Additionally, it can increase traffic into the store for customers who value the ability to bring their
own cups to the shop.
b. Incentive for customers. What will incentivize customers to participate? To encourage residents
to participate, participating businesses can give small discounts for bringing in a reusable cup or
have a punch-card for every time a customer uses a reusable cup, like a loyalty program. A full
punch-card can be a raffle entry or earn a free cup of coffee.
c. Participation rate. The effectiveness of this type of campaign comes with a high participation rate
of businesses across the city. Consider focusing on Carlsbad Village where there is a high
concentration of coffee shops.
d. Length of event. The city will need to determine if this campaign will last a limited time frame
(e.g., one month, three months), or a pilot program, or if it will go on in perpetuity. As behavior
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change can take time, the city should consider the program lasting at least a month, but preferably
longer.
e. Staff time. The staff time needed will be highest during the implementation of the program to
sign up businesses and advertise the program. If the event is long term, continuous advertising
will be needed. Advertising for the program can be included in the typical outreach materials
published by the city.
Reusable Products Distribution
City branded giveaways that come in the form of reusable bags, water bottles, to-go mugs and reusable
utensils may help promote city programs and sustainable behaviors.
Major considerations for this program include:
a. Initial investment cost. To begin a promotional items inventory will have upfront costs both to
purchase the items and (typically) one-time set up costs. Set up costs usually entail establishing the
account with an approved vendor and providing them with the vector images that will be printed on
the promotional items.
b. Choosing a vendor. There are many vendors to choose from locally, or who specialize in “eco-friendly”
promotional items with recycled content.
c. Alignment with sustainable purchasing policy. The vendor and items chosen should align with the
city’s new sustainable purchasing policy emphasizing items with recycled content.
d. Maintaining inventory. How much inventory should the city keep on hand and where will the items
be stored? Determining how many events staff believe they will attend per year is typically a good
way to determine how much inventory to order and keep on hand.
Repair Cafe/Fixit Clinic
Repair cafes are workshops that teach and empower the community to repair their own household goods.
Promoting not only the longevity of products, but community engagement and STEAM learning. There is
a network of repair cafes and fixit clinics in San Diego County. Tapping into this network to host quarterly
or monthly workshops would add to the program’s success.
Major considerations for this program include:
a. Location. The city has several community spaces the repair café can take place. Staff may want to
consider the pros/cons of hosting the repair café in the same location or rotate locations throughout
the city.
b. Staff and mentors. Repair cafes often partner with local makerspaces or makers clubs who can be
repair mentors. As the city already has an Exploration HUB space, the Library Department may be a
good resource for finding repair mentors. Likewise, advertising that is aimed at local engineers or
science teachers can also recruit mentors for the event. Having an established network of mentors
can limit city staff burden as the mentors can take ownership of the event.
c. Tools. In many examples of successful repair cafes, the mentors bring their own tools to facilitate the
repairs. If the event proves successful, the city may want to consider investing in a modest set of tools.
Deciding which tools can be determined with the help of the mentors.
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Art Show/Contest
A city-hosted school district wide, or city wide, art show/contest where participants utilize recycled or
reused materials in the artwork promotes creative material reuse. To encourage participation, the art
show may be adjudicated with selected city staff serving as judges. Prizes may be awarded at a public
ceremony and the art can be displayed in a prominent location.
Major considerations for this program include:
a. Staff time. Initial staff time includes advertising the art contest, setting up the art show submissions
for display, pre-planning an award ceremony, and finding judges.
b. Standalone program or add on program. The art contest can be its own standalone program or can
be added on to city Earth Day festivities or another city program.
c. Participation. Will the art contest be focused on school age children or open to the whole community?
For the contest, what categories or age brackets will there be? What judging criteria will be used? The
example art contests provided in the table above detail several entry criteria that may help answer
these questions.
d. Location. The art can be displayed at the local library, city hall, community center, the William D.
Cannon Art Gallery, or another preferable location in the city.
e. Logistics. Where will the art be dropped off prior to the show? How will participants retrieve their
artwork after the show?
f. Judges and awards. Who can serve as judges from the city? What awards does the city want to hand
out and are there prizes that come with the awards?
E. Food Recovery
Program
Element
Time
frame
Description Strong Examples
Promote “Save
the Food”
Short-
term
Utilize pre-existing ad campaign materials
from Ad Council’s “Save the Food”
campaign through digital or print ads.
Save the Food website:
https://savethefood.com/
Food Recovery
and Safety
Guides
Short-
term
Cooperate with Health Department to
create food recovery/safety guides and
informational pamphlets that are handed
out during regular health inspections.
San Diego County has a
publicly available guide.
Food Rescue
Webpage
Medium-
term
Establish new webpage listing local food
recovery organizations (updated
annually) alongside food saving/storage
tips.
The San Diego Food System
Alliance webpage has
relevant resources.
Food Recovery
Video Series
Medium-
term
Write, film, and produce a series of food
saving and at-home composting videos
through city-staff or by partnering with
local organizations.
Oceanside, CA has two
educational videos online
about composting.
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Save the Food
The Ad Council created a “Save the Food” campaign with free marketing materials on reducing consumer
food waste at home. The city can use these materials for free as part of a print and digital media campaign.
Major considerations for this program include:
a. Print. Where will the marketing materials get the most exposure? Print examples include bus/train
shelters, light pole banners, local newspapers, bus advertisements (on routes that cut through the
city) city facilities, etc.
b. Digital. Where online can the city promote the program? Besides the city website what other digital
platforms can the city utilize to reach all demographics?
c. Cost. What budget can be allotted? The materials are free from the Ad Council. However, the city will
need to pay to print materials or place them at the specified locations.
d. Larger campaign component. While the Save the Food media is easily accessible and impactful, it
should be a part of the larger city goal(s) of reducing food waste, recovering edible food, and managing
food waste.
Food Recovery and Safety Guides
Health and safety inspections conducted at commercial edible food generators may be a convenient
avenue in which to promote food recovery and reduction of food waste. The city should consider creating
educational materials that can be distributed during inspections in collaboration with the Health
Department.
Major considerations for this program include:
a. Coordination. Establishing a relationship with the Health Department will be key in ensuring that the
inspectors remember to include information on food waste reduction and recovery in the materials
they provide at the time of inspection.
b. Training. Periodically training the health inspectors on state requirements and the city’s initiatives will
allow them to be more familiar with the materials and allow them to answer basic questions before
directing them to call the Sustainable Materials Management Department.
c. Collateral. What materials would be most useful for businesses? The city should consider if there are
other options besides paper fliers or pamphlets to leave with businesses. Magnets or posters that can
be displayed with important information for employees may be more effective.
d. Reporting. How can the city know which businesses were provided guides? Knowing which businesses
were introduced to the material would be helpful in targeting outreach or providing follow up
assistance.
e. Follow up. Who can businesses call with questions? Establishing a clear line of follow up
communication will be important as businesses may not know whether to call the Health Department
or the Sustainable Materials Management Department with follow up questions.
Food Recovery Webpage
The city can draft a webpage to include SB 1383 mandated list of food recovery organizations (updated
annually) alongside food saving/storage tips.
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Major considerations for this program include:
a. Ease of Access. City websites provide a lot of valuable information. The location on the city’s website
for a new page is crucial in its accessibility by the public.
b. Updates. It is important that city staff maintain an updated webpage to comply with state
requirements.
Food Recovery Video
The city can go about creating educational food recovery videos in two ways: 1) writing, filming, and
editing videos themselves or 2) partnering with local organizations such as the UC Cooperative Extension
office, Save the Food, or local Master Gardeners chapter to use pre-made or create new videos. Topics
for the food recovery series may include composting at home, reducing at-home food waste, source-
separating organics at the curb, food recovery, and the benefits of residents and businesses participating
in these programs.
Major considerations for these programs include:
City-made videos
a. Timing. Will all the videos be produced at once or in a series over a designated period?
b. Writing. Who will write the script? What channels will the script need to go through for approval? The
length of the video is important. It should be informational, but not excessively long.
c. Filming. Where will the filming take place? Who will voiceover the scripted dialogue or appear on
camera? Does the city have the equipment and staff to produce the video?
d. Editing. Does the city have staff already who can edit the video? If not, consider budgeting for a vendor
to edit the video.
e. Cost. The implementation cost for filming and editing may be high, but a high-quality video can have
a long life online.
Partner-made videos
a. Resource intensity. While the above considerations such as the timing of the videos and the script
may still be relevant for partner-made videos, much of the filming and editing and cost can be taken
on by the partners.
b. Approval. Partner made videos may come under additional scrutiny in the city’s approval process. If
the videos are being made specifically for the city, getting pre-approval on the content, script, and
even filming location can save a lot of staff time and resources.
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F. Source Separated Materials
Program Element Time
frame
Description Strong Examples
Business Assessments
(on-site and over the
phone)
Short-
term
Provide technical assistance
to businesses either through
the phone or on-site
assistance. As discussed in
the Business Technical
Assistance Program section
below.
RecyclingWorks in
Massachusetts is a recycling
assistance program funded by
the Massachusetts Department
of Environmental Protection
and delivered by the Center for
EcoTechnology.
Multi-family
Assessments (on-site
and over the phone)
Short-
term
Provide technical assistance
to multi-family owners or
managers either through the
phone or on-site assistance.
RecyclingWorks in
Massachusetts is a recycling
assistance program funded by
the Massachusetts Department
of Environmental Protection
and delivered by the Center for
EcoTechnology.
Ambassador Program Medium-
term
Host series of workshops to
certify team of Neighborhood
or city-wide Ambassadors to
facilitate outreach and
education efforts.
Burbank, CA has a “Waste
Warrior Program” incorporating
many best practices.
Multi-family Assessments
Educating multi-family residents can be challenging. Often, these residents do not pay directly for solid
waste collection. Additionally, multi-family collection bins are shared among diverse groups with different
levels of education and compliance on waste disposal regulations. Thus, reaching these residents often
needs more direct and specific assistance at each site.
Major considerations for this program include:
a. Who to talk to? Does the city have an accurate property owner or manager list? If not, how can the
city acquire an accurate list to be able to advertise and perform assessments?
b. Over the phone or in person. The city should consider a specific criterion for when over the phone
assistance can be sufficient (such as specific types of questions, ongoing help, or number of dwelling
units), and when in-person assistance is needed (such as initial implementation of program, large
number of dwelling units, etc.). The city could also screen all multi-family technical assistance requests
by phone first before deploying in-person assistance which will be more time consuming for staff.
c. Checklist. A form or checklist when assessing multi-families will provide efficiency for each
assessment. The checklist can consider elements such as current level of service, space for additional
containers, main common spaces for hanging promotional pieces, and common languages spoken by
residences, among others.
d. Beneficial materials. Drafting educational materials and programs specifically for multi-family should
be considered. If residents are not paying for solid waste directly, there isn’t a direct fiscal impact on
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residents, and it may be necessary to message the program differently to these residents. Placement
of materials should also be considered such as having materials for inside each unit but also in
common areas.
Ambassador Program
Creating a team of “champions” in the city can greatly expand the capacity of city staff to consistently
reach more residents. A series of courses that go into detail on a range of topics, the program is intended
to truly create a team of residents who can help initiate and instill behavior changes in line with the city’s
goals. The Ambassadors can also be used as a team of volunteers for city events or programs, if desired.
This is a more resource intense program, but one that other cities have found the compounding benefits
to be worth the amount of time needed to execute it.
Major considerations for this program include:
a. Curriculum. In the examples around the state of similar programs, Ambassadors often need to commit
to 4-8 classes and a community project to complete the course. Each workshop is a different theme
or aspect of waste reduction. For example, classes can be centered on recycling, single-use plastic,
organics, hazardous waste, landfills, and impact on businesses, reuse, and leadership. Community
projects range from 20-30 hours of work to complete the course.
b. Staff time. This is a more resource intense project as the development of the curriculum, recruiting,
and workshops will require staff time. To reduce the staff time required to implement, it is
recommended that the city reach out to jurisdictions and organizations with similar programs for their
curriculum and adapt it for the City of Carlsbad. Additionally, as the program is up and running,
Ambassadors who have completed the program could pick up the reins and teach some of the courses,
decreasing staff time after regular working hours.
c. Promotion. How will the city reach the residents and recruit for the program? Keeping the course size
small may benefit the promotion as residents will feel an urgency to sign up before the course “fills
up”.
d. Frequency. The city will need to consider how many times per year they want to run the program.
e. Follow up. To maintain the momentum of the program, informal meet-and-greets or ‘alumni’ events
could be encouraged and promoted. This optional extension to the program could be alumni-driven
with the staff support through promotion to the alumni list, without having to establish a more formal
program.
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G. Hard to Handle Materials
Program Time
frame
Description Strong Examples
Drop off Map Short-
term
Print and/or digital map of
drop off locations for
household hazardous waste
Glendale, CA has a
comprehensive battery drop
off map.
Red/Green Tags Medium-
term
In coordination with the
city’s hauler, tag improperly
placed bulky items to
educate residents of proper
procedure (red) and then
charge them for improper
disposal/dumping (green).
Lawndale, CA has a similar
tagging system.
Drop off Map
A map highlighting the range of businesses and drop off points for household hazardous waste, bulky
items, or even donation locations can help residents dispose of their hard to handle items. This map could
live online, be printed and given out at city events, and posted in city facilities.
Major considerations for this program include:
a. GIS or other mapping technology. Who at the city can make the map? Is there a GIS staff who can
facilitate or is there another platform staff can use?
b. Readability. The map should be easy to read and clearly note if a facility only takes specific
materials. For example, noting paint stores who will only take paint versus office supply stores who
may take ink cartridges and batteries.
c. Updating. Who will update the map and how often?
Red/Green Tags
Placing tags on bulky items that have been abandoned or improperly placed out are a direct way to
communicate to residents how to participate in the program. A red tag communicates the items were
improperly placed either in an unsuitable location or put out without scheduling a pickup first. Red tags
can serve as a warning. Green tags can be used for repeat offenders and state that there is a charge
associated with improper set out and disposal.
Major considerations for this program include:
a. Municipal code updates. To charge a fine or fee, what code updates are needed? Does the city already
have a violation procedure in place that can be utilized in this system?
b. Code Enforcement. What is code enforcement’s role in this program?
c. Hauler role. What role does the hauler have? How will they track the tags they have put out?
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d. Communication and reporting. How will the haulers communicate to the city what tags they have
placed out so that city staff can target outreach and education materials to that property owner or
neighborhood?
e. Enforcement and oversight. If the hauler is responsible for enforcing this new system by distributing
tags, what level of oversight does the city need to have of the program to ensure the hauler is tagging
appropriately?
H. Multiuse Programs
Program Time
frame
Description Strong Examples
Recycling Hotline Short-
term
Designated telephone line for
residents or businesses to call
and ask questions on how to
properly sort waste or dispose
of hard to handle materials.
N/A
“How do I recycle
this” Search Engine
Short-
term
Online tool for residents or
businesses to look up specific
items to know which facility to
take discarded and hard to
handle materials
King County, WA; City and
County of San Francisco, CA; and
StopWaste in Alameda County,
CA all have user-friendly search
engines.
Educational
Programming
Medium-
term
Create curriculum and
programming on food
recovery, organics collection,
and source separation topics
for the school district.
N/A
Annual Mailers/Bill
inserts
Short-
and
Medium-
term
Mailers sent to single, multi-
family or commercial
customers covering a wide
range of topics (food recovery,
source-separation, hard to
handle materials, etc.). While
the content may differ
depending on the generator,
the considerations are very
similar.
N/A
Several education and outreach strategies can be used to cover a range of the listed topics in this plan.
Below is a summary of programs that can be applied to several or all these topics.
Recycling Hotline
The Sustainable Materials Management Division currently has a phone line for general inquiries. A new
line, or an extension of the current line, can be added to not only cover recycling and solid waste related
questions, but also questions on hard to handle materials such as bulky, household hazardous waste,
organics, and waste reduction.
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Major considerations for this program include:
a. Staff. Who will answer the calls?
b. Hours. When will the line be open for questions?
c. Duplicitous efforts. Can staff answering the current recycling and trash information line be given
additional training so that they can answer questions on additional topics, such as reuse and food
recovery, negating the need for an additional “hotline”?
“How do I recycle this” Search Engine
A search bar housed on the City website that is specific to the City of Carlsbad collection and materials
management program will provide another avenue for the community to be able to look up how to
properly discard products.
Major considerations for this program include:
a. Working with IT. What capability is available on the City website to set up a search engine? What are
the needs of the IT department to set up, update, and maintain the search engine?
b. Updating. It will be important that the items in the search engine be kept up to date. Additionally,
tracking searches will allow City staff to know which items are being frequently searched so that
resources can be added.
c. Communication among many parties. The hauler, processor, hazardous waste collector, community
partners for bulky recycling (e.g., mattresses), retail take back programs (e.g., paint, motor oil), among
others, are responsible for collecting and managing materials. Maintaining an updated and active list
of which partner or contractor is collecting what will be the most time-consuming aspect of ensuring
the search engine is a useful resource.
d. Updating. Due to the wide variety of partners and contractors involved, a consistent timeline of when
the search engine will be updated will be crucial to its usefulness.
e. Third party platforms. There are a few third-party platforms the City could engage with to maintain a
search engine. Some require manual updating by staff, while others will host and update the search
engine on behalf of the City. Some of these platforms are free to use, while others would require
payment or a contract.
Educational Programming
Partnering with the school district to implement organics, recycling, and waste reduction programming
can impact not only the school’s operations on site but be an additional avenue for outreach to be
distributed throughout the community. Students will bring knowledge and habits home and be a vital
force in driving community-wide behavior change. A strong relationship with the school district can be
hugely beneficial to instilling the city’s goals and current campaigns into the fabric of the community.
Major considerations for this program include:
a. Communication. Before developing an education program, city staff should consider meeting with
school administrators to understand what programming is currently offered, and how the city can
assist.
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b. Format. A school program can take on a few forms including city provided curriculum that teachers
can implement themselves or city staff presentations. City staff can also assist schools in
implementing programming by directing information resources or a tool kit to help schools or
classrooms get started on waste reduction programming.
c. Age groups. School programming will need to be grade specific. Will the city focus on one age group
only (e.g., elementary school) or phase in programming for all age groups over time?
d. Curriculum resources. There is a plethora of resources online and from other cities across California
for developing curriculum. These resources range from full lesson plans to a simple resources sheet
directing teachers to available resources to implement programming in their classroom. The city will
need to decide how in-depth of a program/resources they want to provide.
e. Operational changes – sustainable purchasing. The sustainable purchasing guide may be a useful
resource for each school but would require some operational changes. Implementing administrative
programs should be considered to vertically integrate sustainable materials management programs
throughout the school district. What assistance does the school district want or need to make these
changes?
f. Operational changes – food recovery. Schools may be required to implement food waste recycling to
comply with SB 1383. Supplementing this requirement with food recovery programs such as food-
sharing tables or take-away meals from lunch leftovers can not only reduce the potential financial
burden of implementing food waste collection but also solve food insecurity for some students and
their families.
Annual Mailers and Bill Inserts
Mailers and bill inserts are a standard practice for most cities throughout the state as a means of
communication. In some cases, they are the main form of communicating to residents and businesses for
a variety of campaigns making them an essential component of a strategic outreach and education plan.
Major considerations for this program include:
a. Who to target? Single-family, multi-family, and commercial businesses will all have different needs
and be targeted for different programs. The city will need to consider if and how it will segregate its
messaging to different groups so that it is the most effective. Can the hauler assist with this?
b. Targeting businesses. Commercial businesses will have different needs depending on the sector. The
city may decide to derive a list of regulated businesses to target or send a more comprehensive mailer
to all commercial businesses that covers a range of topics. Attempting to segregate out businesses by
sector to target specific campaigns is less advisable due to the resource intensity of creating and
tracking multiple lists (unless the hauler can do so). The city may decide instead to consider messaging
on mailers for the broad range of commercial entities.
c. Electronic vs. print bill inserts. It is worth considering what percentage of businesses receive their bill
electronically and if there is a way to provide the same information to those customers as those who
receive bills in the mail. Some modifications may need to be made between the two formats.
d. Alternative formats. Paper mailers and bill inserts are a cost-effective way to relay a message. The city
may want to consider providing customers with a longer-lasting product, such as a magnet, sticker, or
high-gloss poster, that can be displayed at home or in businesses where residents, customers, and
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employees can see it. While this increases costs, it may be an effective way to relay more targeted
information.
e. Timing. Annual mailers can be sent out a few times a year to advertise different programs. For
instance, the city can send an annual mailer on household hazardous waste in the spring as residents
begin spring cleaning, home improvement, or lawn care projects. Likewise, the city can send a bulky
item mailer around the winter holidays as the community receives new household goods and replaces
old ones.
f. Comprehensive annual newsletter. Another option to consider is to have one, bulkier mailing per year
with all the relevant campaign information such as a sustainable materials management newsletter
or newspaper that is mailed annually. The city can design and produce these newsletters themselves
or can hire third-party contractors to produce and mail the newsletters. A challenge with this method
is that the city would have less flexibility in messaging throughout the year.
g. Cost. It is worth investigating if the costs associated with several mailers per year versus a single bulky
mailer per year to determine which is more cost efficient when considering postage and production
costs.
I. Business Technical Assistance Program
Program Timeframe Description
Workshops Short-term Host series of public workshops to educate the
business community on all waste reduction
and prevention topics.
Phone Assessments Short-term Provide minimal assistance to businesses over
the phone, as requested.
On-Site Assessments Short-term Provide in-depth assistance to businesses
through in-person site visits to assess current
practices and provide recommendations.
The business technical assistance program should be a priority for the city to implement. It can be built
out in steps by focusing on a narrow range of topics in Step 1 and adding on additional topics in Steps 2
and 3. In Step 1, the city should prioritize management strategies that help businesses meet state and
local mandates regarding source-separated materials, food recovery, and hard to handle waste. Step 2
should expand to assisting with sustainable purchasing, while Step 3 can help businesses understand how
to implement reuse practices and partnerships into their business models.
The city will need to consider how best to present the information during each step. If there is limited
staff capacity to implement workshops, phone assessments and on-site assessments at once, the city
should consider starting with workshops during Step 1 and add the individual assessments in proceeding
steps. Alternatively, the city could hire a third-party consultant or ask the hauler to take on some of the
responsibilities of implementation. Workshops are the easiest way to educate many businesses at once.
The prioritized topic areas in Step 1 are generally applicable to most businesses in a similar way and could
be covered as workshops to start.
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Workshops
Workshops aimed at businesses can be a simple way to communicate to a large range of businesses about
a wide range of topics. While the needs and mandates of each business or business sector vary, workshops
can introduce a broad range of topics that business owners and managers can take and adapt to their
needs.
Major considerations for this program include:
a. Format. There are at least two general formats the workshops can take: (1) by business sector or (2)
by sustainable material management topic. Workshops by sector can be more specific to the needs
of businesses, but it may be difficult or resource-intense to provide workshops for all sectors.
Workshops by topic will be broader and the information will have to be carefully curated to ensure it
is beneficial for the workshop attendees and the types of businesses they represent.
b. Curriculum. The format of the workshop will dictate the type of information relayed at each workshop.
It is recommended that the city reach out to cities with similar programs to find curriculum and then
adapt it for the City of Carlsbad.
c. Timing. Unlike residential programs, business programs can happen during normal working hours.
When thinking of the format of the workshops, some types of businesses may prefer different times
of day. For example, a restaurant may prefer different times based on when their breakfast or lunch
rushes are versus a retail store where late afternoons or evenings may be busier. If staff are unsure
of the best time to conduct business workshops, reaching out to the local chamber of commerce or
business association could help determine the best time(s), or staff could conduct a survey of
businesses.
Phone Assessments
Phone assessments and assistance provide direct support to businesses while minimizing staff time and
resource needs. There are a few ways that phone assessments can be organized including offering small
businesses (defined by the number of employees) phone assessments only, and larger businesses on-site
assessments. Or, by offering phone assessments first for all businesses and then determining if on-site
follow up is needed.
Major considerations for this program include:
a. Staffing. Who will receive the calls? How much staff time should be devoted to the calls? Is staffing
the phone line something the hauler can assist with?
b. Hours of operation. When will staff take assessment calls? Will businesses be able to call during all
normal working hours, specific “business assessment” hours, or by appointment only?
c. Access. Will the city restrict access to businesses who have participated in a workshop of another part
of the technical assistance program? Will they need to sign up online to receive assistance? Will it be
open to all businesses within Carlsbad? Restricting or having open access will determine how much
staff time will be needed.
On-Site Assessments
Major considerations for this program include:
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a. Staffing. Who is available to do the assessments? How long will each assessment take? Will there need
to be more than one on-site visit for follow up? How many on-site assessments can the staff do?
b. Access. Will the city restrict access to businesses who have participated in a workshop of another
part of the technical assistance program? Will they need to sign up online to receive assistance? Will
it be open to all businesses within Carlsbad? Restricting or having open access will determine how
much staff time will be needed.
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APPENDIX A.
INITIATIVE A DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL PURCHASING POLICY
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Note: The following is a draft excerpt from proposed modifications to Administrative Order No. 12,
Standard Purchasing Procedures.
ENVIRONMENTALLY PREFERRED PURCHASING (EPP)
A. GENERAL
Per the California Public Contract Code §12400-12404, EPP is the procurement of
goods and services that have a lesser impact on human health and the
environment when compared with similar competing goods and services.
It is the policy of the City of Carlsbad, applicable to all departments and divisions,
to incorporate environmental considerations including recycled-content and
recovered Organic Waste product use into purchasing practices and procurement.
Environmentally Preferred Purchasing will help Carlsbad to:
1. Protect human health and worker safety;
2. Minimize Carlsbad’s contribution to climate change, pollution, and solid
waste disposal;
3. Support Carlsbad in meeting targets in the Sustainable Materials
Management Plan approved by City Council in 2019; and
3. Comply with State requirements including SB 1383 regulations requiring
jurisdictions to procure a specified amount of Recovered Organic Waste
Products and to purchase Recycled-Content Paper Products and Recycled-
Content Printing and Writing Paper.
It is a best practice for all departments and divisions within the City of
Carlsbad to take the following into consideration when making purchasing
for the City:
• How easily can a product be reused or repaired
• How much packaging the product has and the
recyclability/compostability of the packaging
• Composability or recyclability when reusable alternatives are
unavailable
• The amount of energy and water used to create and transport the
product
• What materials are used in the manufacture of the product
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• The presence, or potential presence, of hazardous materials in the
product including, but not limited to: heavy metals, ozone depleting
chlorinated compounds, organic solvents, carcinogens, mutagens, and
volatile organic compounds.
• The reactivity, corrosiveness, flammability, and irritation potential of the
product
Additional best practices for each City department and division can be found in
their respective Sustainable Materials Management Individual Action Plans.
B. RECYCLED PRODUCT PREFERENCE
Per Policy No. 49 approved by City Council and to meet targets in the
Sustainable Materials Management Plan, purchasing specifications should,
where feasible, be structured to require the use of products that incorporate
the maximum amount of recycled materials in their manufacture. A 15% preference, not to exceed $1,000 per contract, shall be given to recycled products. The preference percentage shall be based on the lowest bid or price quoted by the vendor or contractor offering nonrecycled products.
Products to consider for the recycled product price preference shall include, but
not be limited to, the following:
Paper products (30% recycled-content minimum required)
Construction supplies
Automotive, road and highway supplies
Landscape materials and equipment
Janitorial supplies
Plastic materials and equipment
Glass and rubber supplies
In addition to Policy No. 49 Paper Products are also covered by SB 1383 and all departments and divisions must procure Paper Products (including janitorial Paper Products) and Printing and Writing Paper that meets the minimum standards required in SB 1383, as well as report such purchases as required in SB 1383. These SB 1383 requirements are described in Appendix A.
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C. SB 1383 PROCUREMENT TARGETS
The City will annually procure for use or giveaway a quantity of Recovered Organic
Waste Products that meets or exceeds its Annual Recovered Organic Waste Product
Procurement required for SB 1383 and other applicable laws. Products that may be
procured to meet this target include the following:
1. Compost that meets SB 1383 requirements (as defined in Appendix A)
2. SB 1383 Eligible Mulch (as defined in Appendix A).
3. Renewable Gas (in the form of transportation fuel, electricity, or heat) (as
defined in Appendix A).
4. Electricity procured from biomass conversion (as defined in Appendix A).
All departments and divisions shall use compost and SB 1383 Eligible Mulch whenever
practicable and available (e.g., landscaping, erosion control, trail maintenance,
community gardens), and in accordance with requirements outlined in the City’s Water
Efficient Landscape Ordinance. Divisions and departments are encouraged to utilize
Compost and SB 1383 Eligible Mulch that the City is provided, at no cost for material or
delivery, through its franchise agreement. Divisions and departments may contact the
City’s Sustainable Materials Management Division for more information. Additional
guidelines can be found in Appendix A, SB 1383 Compliance Guide.
D. RECORDKEEPING RESPONSIBILITIES
Divisions and departments shall maintain records, including invoices or proof of
Recovered Organic Waste Product procurement (either through purchase or acquisition)
and recycled paper product procurement in compliance with SB 1383 and submit
records to the Purchasing Department. All records shall be maintained and submitted in
accordance with Appendix A.
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APPENDIX B.
INITIATIVE C RESEARCH AND ANALYSIS ON APPROVED POLICIES
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Overview
This section summarizes research regarding how different jurisdictions at the local, state, national, and
international levels are implementing policies and programs to address the sustainable materials
management issues and material types identified as priority policies in this Implementation Plan.
Examples from within San Diego County were identified as much as possible. In addition to researching
existing ordinance and policy examples, relevant recently passed or upcoming legislation and regulations
were identified to enable the city to stay ahead of the curve with future policy requirements.
Structure of Research and Analysis Summary for Each Priority
Policy:
Each policy is reviewed in the following format:
1. Current Status: Identifies and briefly describes current city programs and policies, if any, as well as
highlights current examples of policies and programs from other jurisdictions within San Diego
County, if any were identified during preliminary research. Additionally, highlights certain current or
upcoming state legislation or regulations that relate to each policy option.
2. Policy Options Detail. Lays out descriptions of selected policy options and examples of other
jurisdictions that have implemented the example policy or related programs. These examples are
organized into one of the following tiers:
i. Leader: Following this track would align the city with the policies of jurisdictions in the state, and
in some cases in the nation or world, that are leaders in sustainable material management.
ii. Customary Practice: The customary practice tier represents options that have either been
replicated in multiple jurisdictions and are commonly used, and/or represent the “middle ground”
of actions that may be taken.
iii. Minimum Action: The minimum action tier includes policy options the city can take to
demonstrate a step in the direction of sustainable materials management, but to a lesser degree
than customary practice.
3. Summary of Options. Provides a brief overview of the various ways each policy can be implemented.
Approved Policy Option 1, Part A - Material Ban: Plastic Food
Service Ware
1. Current Status
City Programs and Policies:
• The city does not have a formal policy in place to restrict single-use plastic food service ware.
• The city is covered under current state legislation which requires that straws only be provided upon
request for dine-in customers (take-out orders are exempt).
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• The city is conducting a pilot program with businesses to help them reduce or eliminate single-use
food service ware.
• The city residential recycling guide includes “tips to reduce waste” related to reducing the use of
single-use food service ware, some of which include:
- Reduce or eliminate the use of paper plates and cups
- Store leftover foods in reusable containers instead of single use plastic bags or polystyrene
containers
San Diego County Jurisdictions:
• Examples of other jurisdictions in San Diego County with relevant policies or programs: City of San
Diego, Imperial Beach, Solana Beach, Encinitas, and Del Mar. Others, such as the City of Oceanside,
are in the planning process for similar policies.
Relevant Recent Legislation
Existing
• AB 1276 (Ting, 2021). This bill was signed into law on October 5, 2021, and is aligned with the
nonprofit coalition Reusable L.A.’s “Skip the Stuff” proposed policy. This bill prohibits a food facility or
a third-party food delivery platform from providing any single-use food accessories (utensils,
condiment cups/packets, straws, etc.) to consumers unless requested by the consumer, or unless
necessary to protect public health and safety or safe delivery. Third-party delivery platforms (i.e.,
UberEATS, GrubHub, DoorDash, etc.) shall provide each of its vendors with the option to customize
the vendor’s menu on the online food-ordering platform with a list of food accessories offered by the
vendor. This bill requires local jurisdictions to authorize an enforcement agency to enforce these
requirements on or before June 1, 2022, and issue specified penalties; this bill thus imposes a state-
mandated local program. AB 1276 provides that, if the Commission on State Mandates determines
that the bill contains costs so mandated by the state, reimbursement for those costs shall be made.
AB 1276 does not preclude jurisdictions from passing more stringent local ordinances.
• AB 619 (Chiu, 2019). AB 619 permits customers to bring reusable containers to food service
establishments, under certain conditions, and specifies procedures for food service establishments in
handling the containers. The bill also authorizes temporary food facilities to use clean and sanitized
reusable utensils for customers (previously only single-use service ware was allowed).
• SB 1335 – Sustainable Packaging for the State of California Act (Allen, 2018). SB 1335 prohibits the
use of food service packaging at state agencies and state-owned facilities that is not reusable,
recyclable, or compostable.
Proposed
• The Plastics Free California Ballot Initiative is expected to be on the November 2022 ballot. Advocates
for the initiative submitted 870,000+ voter signatures in August 2020 (623,212 signatures were
required to qualify), and it is expected to be confirmed for the November 2022 ballot in April 2021.
Some key features of the initiative include:
- All single-use plastic packaging must be reusable, recyclable, or compostable by 2030
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- Statewide ban on polystyrene food containers
- Funding for environmental restoration projects and new recycling and composting facilities
- Manufacturers charged a fee for single-use plastic packaging/products produced.
• SB 54 (Allen, 2021). This bill is being reintroduced in the 2021 legislative session. SB 54, the California
Plastic Pollution Producer Responsibility Act would require disposable packaging and food service
ware to be recyclable or compostable by 2032, and includes provisions regarding manufacturer
packaging right-sizing and encouraging reusable products when possible.
• AB 1200 (Ting, 2021) – This bill is being considered in the 2021 legislative session and would prohibit
the sale of plant-based food packaging that contains PFAs.
• See the EPR section for information about other proposed packaging legislation such as minimum
content standards and product labeling standards.
2. Policy Options Detail
Examples from San Diego County jurisdictions are emphasized.
Tier Policy Option Example Description/Notes
Leader 1 Material Types:
Comprehensive ban
of all or most single-
use plastic service
ware types (e.g.,
containers, cups,
straws, stirrers, spill
plugs, trays,
condiment packets,
etc.).
Berkeley, CA
The City of Berkeley’s “Disposable Free
Dining” ordinance is a recent example
of a food service ware ban that is
comprehensive of many different
disposable food service ware material
types.
2
Material
Alternatives:
Disposable service
ware alternatives
must be reusable or
compostable
Berkeley, CA
Santa Monica,
CA
Many jurisdictions in the leadership
category, such as the Cities of Berkeley
and Santa Monica, only allow
compostable or reusable service ware
(rather than also allowing recyclable
materials). See below for further
subcategory examples.
4. 2a. Option to
further specify
the types of
compostable
products to allow
only fiber-based
or “marine
degradable”
compostable
products (which
would exclude
Santa Monica,
CA
Alameda, CA
The City of Santa Monica only allows
“marine degradable” materials.
The City of Alameda specifies that
disposable products must be
compostable and fiber-based (e.g.,
paper or bamboo straws)
Compostable plastics or “bioplastics”
are prohibited from both.
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Tier Policy Option Example Description/Notes
compostable
plastics)
5. 2b. Allow a
limited number of
exemptions from
compostable
material rule for
relevant material
types (e.g.,
recyclable
aluminum foil)
Berkeley, CA vs.
Santa Monica,
CA
City of Berkeley requires compostable
material alternatives, with the
exception of 100% recyclable aluminum
foil.
Santa Monica excludes aluminum foil.
6. 2c. Compostable
products must be
free of
fluorinated
chemicals
San Francisco,
CA
The City of San Francisco’s food service
ware ordinance additionally addresses
toxicity of materials by prohibiting food
service ware that is not compostable
and free of fluorinated chemicals.
This requirement aligns with the new
BPI standard, effective January 1, 2020,
that products may no longer be claimed
BPI certified if they contain added
fluorinated chemicals.
7. 2d. Require
reusable food
service ware for
dine-in customers
Berkeley, CA Berkeley’s ban also requires that dine-in
customers be provided reusable service
ware (with some exceptions of some
items deemed essential for serving that
food item)
8. 2e. Require
reusable service
ware for dine-in
and take-out
customers
City of Palo
Alto (Planned)
City of Palo Alto has indicated that their
long-term plan is to require reusable
food ware for both dine-in and take-
out. The use of reusable containers for
take-out has been tested in pilot
programs, but a mandatory policy
would be the first of its kind in
California.
Pilot programs for reusable containers
and cups for takeout have been
conducted in Truckee, Berkeley, New
York, and at college campuses across
the country.
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Tier Policy Option Example Description/Notes
9. 2f. Implement a
reusable to go
container pilot
program (as a
standalone
program or a
precursor to
mandatory
reusable take-out
containers)
Truckee, CA The town of Truckee’s “Keep Truckee
Green” program established a reusable
to-go box exchange program. The Town
provided five participating restaurants
with reusable to-go containers.
Customers make an initial purchase of
$5 and then exchange their used
container for a clean one during their
next meal. The Town currently has at
least 1,300 reusable boxes in circulation
rather than single-use. The Town also
offers reusable dishes for residents and
organizations to use for events.
3 Regulated entities:
Comprehensive list of
regulated entities:
Restaurants, mobile
food vendors/ food
trucks, hotels,
convenience stores,
city facilities, delivery
platforms/apps, retail
stores
Solana Beach,
CA
The City of Solana Beach, in addition to
restricting types of food service ware
used by food service providers, bans
any store or retailer in city from selling
single use items such as utensils, straws,
stirrers, etc., and polystyrene items.
Richmond, CA Richmond specifically includes that all
food service establishments, retail
stores, and hotels/transient lodging
facilities may not sell or provide straws
or stirrers. The inclusion of hotels and
transient lodging facilities is a
leadership component of their
ordinance.
San Mateo
County, CA
San Mateo County includes provisions
regarding these requirements to not
provide accessory food service ware
(utensils, straws, etc.) unless requested
or confirmed by customer, including
requiring delivery apps used to have
clear areas where customers click in the
affirmative if they want this option,
otherwise the default is none provided.
Customary
Practice
4 Material
types/alternatives:
Ban single-use plastic
food service ware
items, and allow
alternatives that are
reusable, recyclable
or compostable
Solana Beach,
CA
The City of Solana Beach bans the sale
of food service ware that is not
reusable, compostable, or recyclable (as
opposed to more restrictive ordinances
above in line #2 that only allow
compostable or reusable).
El Cerrito, CA The City of El Cerrito bans disposable
food service ware that is not reusable,
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Tier Policy Option Example Description/Notes
compostable, or recyclable. The city’s
ordinance also encourages, but does
not require, the use of reusable food
service ware for dine-in customers.
5 Regulated entities:
Ban all types of food
service ware items,
but only apply the ban
to some applicable
entities. For example,
ban materials for food
service
providers/restaurants
and city Facilities
(retail, hotels, and
other entities
exempt).
Carmel, CA The City of Carmel requires recyclable
or compostable food packaging for
restaurants, food vendors, and city
facilities (other entities such as retail
are not regulated).
6 In addition to
requiring more
sustainable
alternatives, require
accessory food
service ware to be
provided upon
request only and/or
at self-serve stations
Solana Beach,
CA
In addition to banning non-
compostable and non-recyclable food
service ware, Solana Beach requires
that accessory food service items (e.g.,
straws, stirrers, utensil, etc.) are only
provided upon request.
San Mateo
County, CA
(also adopted
by Cities of
Burlingame
and South San
Francisco)
Food service ware accessories (e.g.,
straws, stirrers, spill plugs, condiments,
utensils, etc.) shall only pre provided:
upon customer request; upon customer
acceptance after being offered by the
food facility Straws and utensils, which
must be marine degradable, are
required to be provided to customers
only upon request. The food service
provider may ask customers if they
need straws or disposable utensils.
Additionally, the county’s ordinance
requires that these accessories be
provided unbundled as separate
individual units.
7 Food service
providers may charge
a “take-out fee” to
offset expenses
See Section 2.4
(Incentive-
Based Policies)
This is included in many food service
ware ordinances to reduce concerns
over increased cost of alternative items
for food service providers. See Section
2.4 (Incentive-Based Policies) for
further details and examples.
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Tier Policy Option Example Description/Notes
8 Require or encourage
reusable service ware
for dine-in Customers
Watsonville,
CA
Rather than requiring reusable service
ware for dine-in customers (e.g., City of
Berkeley ordinance), the City of
Watsonville’s ordinance states that all
food service providers are encouraged
to use reusable rather than disposable
food service ware for dine-in services
10. 9 11. Require regulated
entities to post
educational
materials
Palo Alto, CA Require restaurants and other
regulated entities to post city-produced
signs or education materials about the
new requirements
12. 1
0
13. City to develop
and post a list of
acceptable
alternative
products
San Francisco The City of San Francisco’s ordinance
requires that the city develop and post
a list of acceptable material
alternatives.
Minimum
Action
11 Limit banned
materials to only one
or a small number of
material types.
Alternatives may be
reusable,
compostable, or
recyclable.
Del Mar, CA The City of Del Mar placed a ban only on
straws and stirrers.
12 “Upon request”
model: no materials
are specifically
banned, but materials
may only be provided
upon request or at a
self-serve station.
Encinitas, CA
(Phase 1)
The City of Encinitas’ first phase of their
plastics reduction initiative prohibited
the distribution of plastic straws or
plastic utensils unless request by
customer or upon accepted offer by the
food provider. Unlike the state’s straws
upon request model, this ordinance also
applies to take-out and drive-through
orders.
(Note the city has since expanded its
requirements including prohibiting
distribution of straws made out of
plastic by food service providers
starting August 1, 2020)
Portland,
Oregon
The City of Portland Oregon’s upon
request model is specific in terms of the
material types and locations of the
materials. Regulated entities cannot
automatically provide plastic (including
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Tier Policy Option Example Description/Notes
compostable plastic) straws, stirrers,
utensils, or individually packaged
condiments in a customer's order for
dine-in, drive-through, take-out, or
delivery. Items can only be provided
upon request, or in some cases at a self-
serve station.
Note that for counter service (dine-in or
take-out) the items must be kept behind
the counter (no self-serve area). Grab
and go service (e.g., convenience
stores) may have self-serve utensils, but
plastic straws, stirrers, and condiments
must be behind the counter.
13 No materials banned,
but set a target
percentage of food
service ware that
must be recyclable,
compostable, or
reusable.
Lafayette, CA Lafayette’s ordinance began with a
voluntary phase out period, followed by
a target of 50% recyclable or returnable
materials by 2015, and 75% by 2020.
14 Limit regulated
entities. For example,
only ban materials for
city facilities.
Orange County Orange County adopted a framework
for disposable food service ware that
only bans the materials for city facilities
(restaurants, food service vendors, and
other entities not affected).
15 Restrict materials
only for dine-in, but
take-out orders are
exempt.
San Luis
Obispo, CA
San Luis Obispo requires single-use
beverage straws to be provided upon
request only for dine-in, take-out food
orders are exempt. (This is similar to the
state’s model)
Encourage/permit
customers to bring
reusable food service
ware to food service
establishments and
events.
Solana Beach,
CA
Solana Beach’s food service ware
ordinance includes provisions that
clarify that customers are permitted to
bring and use their own reusable cups
at any food establishment in the city.
The city also includes provisions that
encourage event producers who
provided beverages to make reusable
cups available or make a strong effort to
encourage attendees to bring a
reusable cup to the event.
16 Create voluntary
phase-out program
Ukiah, CA As part of the city’s general EPS ban in
2015, the city included provisions to
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Tier Policy Option Example Description/Notes
encourage food service providers to
voluntarily switch to using
“biodegradable” food service ware.
Other
Policy
Component
s
Implementation
options
17 Grace period
between effective
date and
enforcement
San Mateo
County, CA
San Mateo County’s ordinance became
effective March 2020, and was enforced
beginning March 2021.
Richmond, CA The City of Richmond allows six months
between the effective date and
enforcement.
18 Phase-out/phase-in
by material type or
requirement
Encinitas, CA The City of Encinitas’ plastic initiative is
being planned in three phases:
Phase 1 (February 22, 2020):
distribution of Plastic Straws and/or
Plastic Utensils must be Upon Request
of the Customer, or Upon Offer by the
Food Provider (includes take-out/drive-
thru). (August 1, 2020) Straws may not
be made of plastic.
Phase 2 (April 18, 2020): Distribution of
plastic bottled beverages at city
facilities and special events is
prohibited.
Phase 3 (October 1, 2020): EPS ban.
Santa Monica,
CA
Santa Monica used a phase out
approach which allowed extra time for
plastic cups due to lack of market for
feasible alternatives at the time that
meet the ordinance’s “marine
degradable” standard
19 Phase-in by regulated
entity
Santa Clara, Ca Santa Clara’s ordinance first applied to
large chain restaurants, and was then
phased in to smaller food service
providers.
Enforcement - Monitoring
20 Complaint-based Union City, CA The City of Union City’s Food Ware
Ordinances uses complaint-based
enforcement driven by public complaint
reports.
21 Active monitoring/
regular inspection
Foster City, CA Foster City’s ordinance is enforced by
the San Mateo County Health
Department during routine health
inspections of food vendors. (Additional
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Tier Policy Option Example Description/Notes
inspections may be made based on
complaints)
22 Recordkeeping or
reporting
requirements for
regulated entities
San Mateo
County, CA
The County of San Mateo’s ordinance
requires that food facilities maintain
complete and accurate records or food
service ware purchases, and requires
the facility to make records available for
county inspection.
Pacific Grove,
CA
The City of Pacific Grove requires that
food service providers confirm
compliance with the single-use plastic
reduction ordinance annually on their
business license renewal forms.
Enforcement -
penalties
23 Warning notice (first
violation)
Albany, CA
Warning notice issues for first violation
occurrence; $100 penalty for 2nd
violation; $200 for 3rd violation; and,
$500 for 4th or future violations.
24 Multiple warning
notices
State of
California
The State of California’s penalty
structure for the upon-request straw
law allows for warning notices for the
first and second violations, followed by
a fine of $25 each day the restaurant is
in violation (not to exceed $300
annually).
25 No warning notice Santa Monica,
CA
The City of Santa Monica does not
specify a warning period in its
ordinance, and any person violating any
provision of the ordinance may be fined
up to $250 per violation.
26 Escalating penalty
amounts
Albany, CA As mentioned above, the City of Albany
uses a warning notice and escalating
penalties of $100 for 1st violation after
warning notice, $200 for 2nd violation
after warning notice, and $500 for 3rd
and future violations after warning
notice.
Pacific Grove,
CA
The City of Pacific Grove uses escalating
penalty amounts that are higher than
the City of Albany example, as follows:
warning for first violation; $200 for 1st
violation after warning; $400 for the
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Tier Policy Option Example Description/Notes
second; and, $900 for third and
subsequent violations.
Different penalty amounts are used if
the violation occurs in connection with
a special event, based on the number of
people attending the event
$200 for events under 200 people; $400
for 200-400 people, $600 for between
400-600 people; and $1,000 for more
than 600 people.
27 Uniform penalty
amount per violation
Santa Monica,
CA
The City of Santa Monica uses a uniform
fine amount of $250 per violation.
28 License revocation Carmel, CA Carmel’s enforcement process begins
with a warning notice and 30 days to
comply, followed by escalating
penalties. If the violating entity is not in
compliance within 90 days after the first
warning, the establishment may be
scheduled for a business license
revocation hearing.
29 Option for alternative
penalty payment
Carmel, CA Under Carmel’s ordinance, A regulated
entity in violation 30 days after the first
warning notice will be assessed a
penalty of $250.00; however, in lieu of
paying the fine, the violator may submit
receipts demonstrating the purchase
after the citation date of at least
$250.00 worth of compliant alternative
disposable food service ware products
(biodegradable, compostable, or
recyclable) for the items which led to
the violation.
Waivers/ Exemptions
30 Financial hardship San Diego, CA A regulated entity may seek a financial
hardship waiver if the applicant can
demonstrate, to city’s satisfaction, that
the entity has a gross income less than
$500,000 and that there is no suitable
and reasonably affordable alternative
product available for a specific
prohibited material type.
Note that ordinances differ on how the
financial hardship qualification is
measured.
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Tier Policy Option Example Description/Notes
31 Feasibility-based
hardship/ no existing
alternatives
San Diego, CA The City of San Diego allows for
applicants to request a feasibility-based
hardship if the applicant can
demonstrate to the city’s satisfaction
that no reasonably feasible alternative
exists for specific prohibited material.
32 Medical conditions
and accessibility
Solana Beach,
CA
Encinitas, CA
Regulated entities are permitted to sell,
provide, distribute or use plastic food
ware accessory items (e.g., straws)
when needed by customers due to
medical or physical conditions.
33 Limit waiver term
length
Berkeley, CA The City of Berkeley limits waivers for a
specified term of up to two (2) years. If
the entity is diligently working to come
into compliance, but is still unable,
additional waiver term of up to two (2)
years may be granted.
Santa Monica,
CA
The City of Santa Monica allows the
Director to provide exemptions for up
to one (1) year. Further exemptions
beyond that may only be granted by
City Council.
34 Partial exemption by
material type
Carmel, CA The City of Carmel provides certain
exemptions for single-use plastic food
service ware; however, the city does not
allow any exemptions from EPS service
ware restrictions.
Note: “Other Policy Considerations” have been included in this section as an example of additional detailed options
that will need to be considered during the drafting phase of the selected policy options. However, this level of additional
detail has not been added to every material type and policy option in this summary document. The Policy Design Guides
include various options for these policy components, which will serve as a guide for the other material types.
3. Summary of options
• Material Types (containers, cups, lids plates, bowls, utensils, straws, stirrers, etc.)
• Regulated Entities (food service providers, restaurants, mobile food vendor, city facilities/events,
retail stores, hotels, etc.)
• Acceptable Material Alternatives (Reusable, Recyclable, Compostable [subcategories of fiber-
based, bioplastic, etc.], Fiber-based
• Structures (Full ban, upon-request model, dine-in only, mandatory vs. voluntary, etc.)
• Additional Features or Programs (take-out fees, pilot programs, education requirements,
reporting, list of acceptable items, etc.)
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Approved Policy Option 1, Part B - Material Ban: Expanded
Polystyrene (EPS)
1. Current Status
City Programs and Policies:
• No policy in place.
• The city’s Residential Recycling Guide provides tips for waste reduction, which include some tips on
reducing EPS use, including storing leftover foods in reusable containers instead of single use plastic
bags or polystyrene containers.
San Diego Jurisdictions:
• Examples of other jurisdictions in San Diego County with relevant policies or programs: City of San
Diego, Imperial Beach, Solana Beach, Del Mar, and Encinitas. Others, such as the City of Oceanside,
are in the planning process for similar policies.
Relevant Recent Legislation:
• AB 3025 – Solid Waste: Polystyrene Loosefill Packaging (Lieber, 2008). This law prohibits wholesalers
or manufacturers from selling polystyrene loose fill packaging on and after January 1, 2012, unless it
is comprised of a certain percentage of recyclable material, which incrementally increased to 100%
by January 1, 2017.
Proposed:
See “Recent Legislation” section under Plastic Food Service Ware above for details on single-use food
service ware legislation, many of which include provisions regarding polystyrene and allowable
materials.
Inactive
• SB 705 – Solid Waste: Expanded Polystyrene Food Service Containers (Allen, 2017- 2018). SB 705
would have banned food vendors from serving prepared food in polystyrene food service containers.
The bill died in the Senate during the 2017-2018 legislative session.
2. Policy Options Detail
Examples from San Diego County jurisdictions, if any, are emphasized.
Tier Policy Option Example Description/Notes
Leader 1 Material types: Comprehensive
ban on multiple EPS material
types, including: all food service
ware; egg cartons and meat trays;
packaging materials (e.g., packing
peanuts, boxes, blocks,
envelopes); ice chests and coolers;
pool or beach toys; and, dock
Solana Beach,
CA
Solana Beach was the first
in San Diego County to ban
EPS products. Solana
Beach’s ordinance includes
restrictions on EPS food
service ware; egg cartons;
meat trays; packaging
materials (including boxes
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Tier Policy Option Example Description/Notes
floats, buoys, or
anchor/navigational markets.
and packing peanuts);
coolers, ice chests, or
similar containers; pool or
beach toys; and, dock
floats, mooring buoys, or
other navigational markers.
*The ban on egg cartons
and meat trays is only
effective after curbside
composting is available, or
on November 1, 2021,
whichever is earlier.
Encinitas, CA The City of Encinitas has a
similarly comprehensive
EPS ban which prohibits
disposable food service
ware, egg cartons, and food
trays made from EPS;
coolers, ice chests, or
similar containers; and,
loose fill packaging such as
foam peanuts or packing
noodles.
2 Regulated entities: Ban is
applicable to all or most applicable
entities (e.g., restaurants and food
service vendors, retailers or
distributors, city facilities/events,
or general public).
Malibu, CA
(2016)
The City of Malibu’s ban
applies to all food service
vendors, retailers, or other
entities that sell or
otherwise distribute EPS
products.
Solana Beach,
CA
Solana Beach prohibits the
sale or distribution of
products, and also prohibits
those products from being
used on beaches (i.e.,
regulates retail and the
general public in addition
to food service providers).
3 Allowable material alternatives:
Reusable or compostable only; or,
for certain materials such as dock
floats or pool toys, EPS is
Santa Monica,
CA
The City of Santa Monica
only allows
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Tier Policy Option Example Description/Notes
permitted if wholly encased on
more durable material
Alameda, CA
4 14. a. Sub-option to further
specify the types of
compostable alternatives to
allow only fiber-based or
“marine degradable”
compostable products (which
would exclude compostable
plastics)
Santa Monica,
CA
Alameda, CA
The City of Santa Monica,
for EPS FSW only allows
“marine degradable”
materials.
City of Alameda specified
that disposable products
must be compostable and
fiber-based (e.g., paper or
bamboo straws)
Compostable plastics or
“bioplastics” are prohibited
from both. (However, Santa
Monica used a phase out
approach which allowed
extra time for plastic cups
due to lack of market for
feasible alternatives at the
time)
Customary
Practice
5 Material types: Ban EPS food
service ware (no restrictions on
other forms of EPS like egg
cartons, meat trays, ice chests,
packing material, buoys, etc.)
Encinitas, CA
(2016)
The City of Encinitas only
bans EPS food service ware
(other EPS products such as
packaging, coolers, etc. are
exempt)
6 Material Alternatives:
Alternatives may be either
reusable, compostable, or
recyclable.
Solana Beach,
CA
Alternative food service
and packaging materials
may be reusable,
recyclable, or compostable.
7 Regulated entities: Ban on EPS
food service ware for
restaurants/food service vendors
and city facilities (no regulation for
retail), with more sustainable
alternatives required (reusable,
compostable, or recyclable)
Encinitas, CA The City of Encinitas’ EPS
food service ware ban
applies to restaurants and
city facilities (retail not
restricted).
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Tier Policy Option Example Description/Notes
Minimum
Action
9 Regulated entities: Ban EPS food
service ware from being
purchased or used at city facilities.
Huntington
Beach, CA
(2004)
Huntington Beach (along
with other Orange County
Cities) passed a ban on EPS
food service ware that
applies only city facilities
and events (other entities
exempt).
10 Material Alternatives: Ban
polystyrene materials, but do not
specify required alternatives
Laguna Woods,
CA (2013)
The City of Laguna Woods
prohibits use of
polystyrene food service
ware, but does not specify
or monitor the alternatives
used.
Seattle, WA
(2008)
The City of Seattle’s EPS
ban was enacted in two
phases. The first phase
banned EPS food service
ware, but did not enforce
requirements for
compostable or recyclable
alternatives (January 1,
2009). A year and a half
later food service ware was
required to be compostable
or recyclable.
11 Establish voluntary EPS phase-out
program for businesses.
Santa Cruz, CA
(1989 version
before adopting
full ban)
City of Santa Cruz first
started with a voluntary
EPS food service ware ban
in 1989.
(They eventually adopted a
mandatory ban, as the
voluntary program was not
meeting target goals)
3. Summary of Options
• Regulated Entities (e.g., Food Service Providers, city facilities/events, retail, hotels, etc.)
• Material Types (e.g., food service ware, egg cartons, meat trays, coolers, packaging material,
beach toys, buoys/navigational markers, etc.)
• Restriction type (materials banned, materials upon-request, voluntary phase-out, etc.).
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• Implementation (phase-in periods by material, phase-in by entity)
• Compliance/enforcement (complaint-based, active monitoring, reporting required, warning
notices, penalties, uniform vs. escalating penalty amounts, etc.)
• Waiver availability
• Other features/programs (City develops list of acceptable alternatives, allow or require charge
for to-go items, reusable container pilot program, etc.)
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Approved Policy Option 2 - Material Ban: Plastic Beverage Bottles
1. Current Status
City Programs and Policies:
• No formal policy in place.
• The city’s special event permit application requires applicant for events with over 2,000 attendees
and/or events that charge entry fees to fill out a section describing the types of waste anticipated
from the event, and to check off the recyclable materials to be collected at the event (plastic bottles,
other plastic, aluminum cans, glass, or paper). The application also requires a description of how the
applicant plans to ensure the materials are recycled and which recyclable materials to be
generated/collected at the event.
San Diego Jurisdictions:
• Examples of other jurisdictions in San Diego County with relevant policies or programs: Solana Beach,
Encinitas.
Relevant Recent Legislation:
• AB 793 (Ting, 2019-2020). Requires manufacturers to meet minimum recycled content standards for
plastic beverage containers: starting with 15% recycled content per year by 2022, 25% by 2025, and
50% by 2030. Does not include take-back programs, but is an important step for extended producer
responsibility.
• AB 619. See “Recent Legislation” section under Plastic Food Service Ware above.
• SB 343 (Allen, 2021). This bill prohibits a person from selling, distributing, or importing into the state
any product or packaging that displays a chasing arrows symbol, among other symbols, unless the
product or packing is considered recyclable pursuant to statewide recyclability criteria. SB 343 also
requires CalRecycle to conduct various activities, including but not limited to providing information to
the public to evaluate whether a product or packaging is recyclable in the state, and whether or not
the product or packaging routinely becomes feedstock used in the production of new products and
packaging.
• AB 962 (Kamlager, 2021) This bill makes adjustments to The California Beverage Container Recycling
and Litter Reduction Act (“Bottle Bill”) to encourage the practice of washing and reusing beverage
containers. This bill authorizes a CalRecycle-approved processor to wash reusable (glass) beverage
containers or transfer a (glass) reusable beverage container for subsequent washing to a processor
approved by CalRecycle, to be refilled and sold by a beverage manufacturer.
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2. Policy Options Detail
Examples from San Diego County jurisdictions, if any, are emphasized.
Tier # Policy Option Example Description/Notes
Leader 1 Ban plastic water bottles
from being sold by any entity
in the city
Concord, MA
(2013)
Concord, Massachusetts became
the first city to take major action
on the issue of plastic water
bottles, by banning the sale of all
plastic water bottles anywhere in
the city - including retail stores
and convenience stores.
2 Ban plastic beverage bottles
from public events, mobile
food vendors, and city
facilities.
San Luis Obispo,
CA (all bottled
beverages)
San Francisco,
CA (bottled
water)
San Luis Obispo and San Francisco
have enacted similar policies, that
restrict the sale or distribution of
single-use plastic beverage
bottles under 21 fluid ounces at
public events, mobile food
vendors, and city facilities.
3 a. Sub-option: ban only
water bottles, with
exemption for other
beverage types
San Francisco,
CA
While San Francisco and San Luis
Obispo have adopted similar
policies, San Francisco only bans
plastic water bottles and exempts
other beverage types (e.g.,
sparkling water, sports drinks,
soda, etc.)
4 b. Sub-option: Ban
plastics bottles for
any beverage type
San Luis Obispo,
CA
San Luis Obispo additionally
restricts plastic bottles for both
water and other beverage types
(e.g., sparkling water, sports
drinks, soda, etc.)
Customary
Practice
6 Ban plastic water bottles
from being distributed at city
events and facilities
Solana Beach,
CA
The City of Solana Beach banned
the sale and distribution of plastic
bottled beverages at any city
facility or city event, and is
prohibited from using city funds
to purchase plastic bottled
beverages.
The city used a phased-in
approach, first only banning
water bottles, and then
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expanding to other beverage
types.
Encinitas, CA The City of Encinitas prohibits
distribution of plastic beverage
bottles at city Facilities or city-
sponsored events.
Cities of Los
Angeles,
Pasadena,
Sacramento, San
Francisco, San
Jose, Santa
Barbara, and
Santa Monica;
and the County
of Marin (2008)
The Cities of Los Angeles,
Pasadena, Sacramento, San
Francisco, San Jose, Santa
Barbara, and Santa Monica; and
the County of Marin, all of which
are part of Green Cities California
(GCC), banned the use of public
funds to purchase bottled water
in October 2008.
This action aligns with a
resolution passed earlier that year
by the U.S. Conference of Mayors
titled “Supporting Municipal
Water Systems,” which
encourages cities to phase out
government use of bottled water
and promote the importance of
municipal water systems.
Minimum
Action
7 Publish a resolution that
encourages the state to take
action on beverage bottles.
This could be instead of or in
addition to local action at the
city level on beverage
bottles.
San Francisco
(2016)
The City of San Francisco
published a resolution that urges
the California State Legislature to
require all single-use plastic
beverage containers sold in the
state to have a minimum of 25%
post-consumer recycled content
3. Summary of Options
• Material Types (water bottles, all beverages, 21 fluid ounces. or less, etc.)
• Regulate Entities (retail, city facilities, public events, mobile food vendors, etc.)
• Acceptable Material Alternatives.
• Structures.
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• Additional Features or Programs. (bottle refill stations, etc.)
Approved Policy Option 3 - Material Ban: Plastic Bags
1. Current Status
City Programs and Policies:
• No local policy in place.
• The city is covered under state legislation SB 270/Prop 67.
• The city residential recycling guide includes “tips to reduce waste” related to reducing the use of
single-use plastic bags.
San Diego Jurisdictions:
• Examples of other jurisdictions in San Diego County with relevant policies or programs: Del Mar,
Encinitas, Imperial Beach, Oceanside, San Diego, and Solana Beach.
Relevant Recent Legislation:
• SB 270 (Padilla, 2014) / Prop 67 (2016) Single Use Carryout Bag Ban. In 2014, the state passed SB
270, which prohibits grocery stores and other select regulated entities from providing single-use
plastic carryout bags. Stores may provide a reusable grocery bag or recycled paper bag at the point of
sale for a charge of at least 10 cents. . SB 270 was passed in 2014 and became fully effective after
California voters approved Prop 67 in November 2016. Note that SB 270 preempts local ordinances
passed after September 2014.
Through Executive Order N-54-20 on April 22, 2020, some portions of SB 270 were temporarily
suspended for jurisdictions without a local ordinance, in response to the COVID 19 crisis. The
Executive Order has since expired, and SB 270 is in full effect.
2. Policy Options Detail
Examples from San Diego County jurisdictions, if any, are emphasized.
Tier Policy Option Example Description/Notes
Leader 1 Prohibit plastic bags prior to the point
of sale (e.g., meat bags, produce bags,
etc.) unless compostable or reusable
Palo Alto, CA The City of Palo Alto, as
part of its single-use
food service ware
ordinance, bans single-
use plastic produce and
meat bags at grocery
stores and farmer’s
markets unless the
bags are compostable
2 Ban single-use plastic bags that are not
food-related such as dry-cleaning
bags, trash liner bags, flower
Pacific Grove,
CA
The City of Pacific
Grove’s ordinance is
comprehensive of
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Tier Policy Option Example Description/Notes
wrappings, pharmacy bags, etc. and
require more sustainable alternatives.
many plastic bag types,
including being one of
the only jurisdictions to
prohibit single-use
plastic dry cleaning
garment bags
(effective December
31, 2020)
3 Prohibit plastic newspaper bags from
being automatically provided unless
requested by the customer, with the
exception that bags may be used when
raining.
Alternatives may include requesting
that the newspaper be placed directly
into a newspaper tube or box located
on the recipient’s porch or below their
mailbox.
No examples
identified
Nearly all plastic bag
bans specifically
exempt newspaper
bags.
The City of Palo Alto
does not ban plastic
newspaper bags, but
they created an
outreach flier
instructing residents
on how to request no
plastic bag for
delivered newspapers.
Customary
Practice
4 Establish a local bag ban on plastic
carryout bags.
Encinitas,
Solana Beach,
Del Mar,
Oceanside, San
Diego, Imperial
Beach
San Diego County
jurisdictions are some
of the one-hundred
and fifty one (151)
different jurisdictions
that have passed local
plastic bag ban
ordinances14 prior to
the statewide ban, SB
270, which passed the
legislature in 2014 and
finally became
effective after a
proposition in 2016.
The statewide ban now
preempts local
ordinances passed
after September 2014,
Many other
jurisdictions in
the state (151
total)
14 “Plastic Bags: Local Ordinances,” Californians Against Waste. https://www.cawrecycles.org/list-of-
local-bag-bans
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Tier Policy Option Example Description/Notes
so while this is
standard practice,
there are restrictions
moving forward. For
example, the Cities of
Oceanside and San
Diego created
ordinances in 2016,
when the bill was being
considered for veto
referendum (Prop 67)
in November 2016 –
while the ordinances
passed City Council,
they were not upheld
after SB 270 became
effective.
Minimum
Action
5 Encourage or require in-store public
education and encouragement to
customers about reusable bags.
Palo Alto, CA
City of Palo Alto’s
ordinance includes
statement that the city
encourages, but does
not require in-store
education, and
provides materials for
retailers and food
service establishments.
Other Policy
Components
6 Encourage or require in-store public
education and encouragement to
customers about reusable bags.
Palo Alto, CA The City of Palo Alto’s
municipal code,
effective July 1, 2020,
prohibits plastic bags
used for collection of
solid waste, unless
they comply with the
following: clear bags
for refuse, blue-tinted
bags for recyclables,
and green-tinted
compostable bags for
organics.
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3. Summary of Options
• Regulated Product Types / Entities (meat bags, produce bags, newspaper bags, garment/dry
cleaning bags, non-grocery retail stores, prescription bags, etc.)
• Acceptable Material Alternatives (recyclable paper, compostable, or reusable)
• Charge(s) for Bags
• Incentive Programs (discounts for reusable bags, discounts for bringing own bag, etc.)
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Approved Policy Option 4 – Use Restriction: Balloons
1. Current Status
City Programs/Policies:
• No formal policy in place. The city’s Special Event Use Permit Application includes a question on
whether there will be balloons, balloon arches, or balloon releases at the event; and, if so, requires
the applicant to describe the necessary steps they will take to prevent pollution of those that may pop
and drift into the storm drain.
San Diego Jurisdictions:
• None identified in this research stage.
Relevant Recent Legislation:
• State of California Penal Code Section 653.1 bans the release of Mylar balloons. Mylar balloons may
be sold, but must have a weight attached, a statement regarding risk of these balloons, and
manufacturer identification. Balloon types other than Mylar (e.g., latex) are not restricted.
• California State Fire Marshal bans the release of “sky lanterns,” airborne paper lanterns commonly
known as “sky lanterns” due to their potential wildfire hazard.
2. Policy Options Detail
Examples from San Diego County jurisdictions, if any, are emphasized.
Tier Policy Option Example Description/Notes
Leader
1 Prohibit the sale
or use of any
balloons (both
latex and Mylar)
within the city
Nantucket,
MA
The Town of Nantucket, Massachusetts banned
the sale and use of any type of balloon (e.g.,
plastic, latex and Mylar balloons) inflated with any
gas lighter than (e.g., helium). Penalties also apply
to anyone importing balloons from outside of the
island town and not properly containing and
disposing of the balloon waste.
2 Prohibit the sale,
distribution, or
use of balloons
inflated with any
gas lighter than
air (e.g., helium)
within the city
City of
Encinitas,
CA
As of October 2021, the City of Encinitas is
considering passing an ordinance that prohibits
the sale, distribution, or use of any balloon that is
lighter-than-air, and has set up a website to
receive community feedback regarding the
ordinance:
https://encinitasca.gov/Residents/Environmental-
Programs/Balloon-Ordinance
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Tier Policy Option Example Description/Notes
3 Prohibit the
intentional
release of
balloons at
events held
within the city
City of
Ventura,
CA
In 2020, the City of Ventura recently passed an
ordinance prohibiting the intentional release of
balloons at civic events, promotional events, or
product advertisement events within the city. The
goal of the ban is to reduce unnecessary plastic
pollution in the city, and was passed in response to
public discontent with a recent event that
occurred where hundreds of balloons were
released.
4 Prohibit the sale
or use of Mylar
balloons within in
the city, the sale
or use of latex
balloons at city
functions or city-
sponsored
events, and the
release of latex
balloons within
the city.
City of
Hermosa
Beach, CA
In 2019, the City of Hermosa passed an ordinance
expanding its restrictions on the distribution and
use of single-use plastic products in the city, which
included various restrictions on the sale and
distribution of balloons.
5 Prohibit the sale
of Mylar balloons
filled with a gas
lighter than air.
City of
Glendale,
CA
In 2020, the City of Glendale passed an ordinance
prohibiting the sale of Mylar balloons lighter than
air, citing released Mylar balloons as a safety
hazard resulting in power outages when such
balloons have come into contact with power lines
in Glendale.
6 Prohibit the
intentional
release of latex
and Mylar
balloons filled
with gas lighter
than air outdoors
within the county
Suffolk
County, NY
In 2019, citing the balloons’ contribution to marine
litter and danger to marine life, Suffolk County
passed legislation banning the intentional release
of lighter-than-air balloons outdoors.
7 Restrict number
of balloons that
may be
purchased (e.g.,
prohibit large
structures such
N/A No examples currently identified through readily
available information.
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Tier Policy Option Example Description/Notes
as balloon
arches.)
Customary
Practice
8 Prohibit the
intentional
release of 10 or
more balloons
filled with gas
lighter than air
outdoors within
the state.
State of
Rhode
Island
In July 2021, a statewide restriction on balloon
release was passed, to go into effect November
2021. Citing wildlife protection, the law prohibits
the intentional release of 10 or more lighter-than-
air balloons outdoors.
Minimum
Action
9 Restrict release
of balloons at city
facilities/events
Plymouth,
UK
Bans the release of balloons from Plymouth City
Council-owned land.
10 Prohibit
purchase and use
of balloons using
city funds and at
city
facilities/events.
N/A No examples currently identified that ban use at
only the city level, however the Nantucket, MA
model could be used and reduced to only applying
to city facilities/events.
3. Summary of Options
• Prohibit sale and use of balloons (Types: latex, Mylar, or other)
• Prohibit intentional release of balloons
• Prohibit purchase of balloon arches or other large amounts of balloons
• Restrict use of balloons at city facilities and city-sponsored events
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High Environmental Impact Policy Option 1 - Disposal Ban:
Construction and Demolition Debris (C&D)
1. Current Status
City Policies/Programs:
• The City of Carlsbad adopted the minimum requirements of the 2019 California Green Building
Standards Code (CALGreen) by reference with the passing of Ordinance CS-364 (Municipal
Code Chapter 18.21).
• The city has a publicly accessible educational C&D recycling guide.
San Diego County Jurisdictions:
• Some examples of San Diego County jurisdictions that have C&D policies include: Chula Vista,
La Mesa, and San Diego.
Existing Legislation:
• SB 1383 Regulations (2020). SB 1383 regulations require compliance with specific sections the
2019 California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen), and require jurisdictions to pass
locally enforceable ordinance to ensure compliance with those Sections.
• As of 2012, 118 jurisdictions in California have passed some form of C&D material recycling
ordinance.
2. Policy Options Detail
Examples from San Diego County jurisdictions, if any, are emphasized.
Tier Policy Option Example Description/Notes
Leader 1 Ban all C&D materials from
landfills.
Vermont Vermont bans all C&D materials
from being deposited in landfills on
a statewide basis.
2 Prohibit demolition and
require deconstruction.
Palo Alto, CA The City of Palo Alto, effective July
1, 2020, prohibits demolition and
instead requires developers to
deconstruct and dissemble
building components, source
separate materials, and maximize
reuse and recycling.
Customary
Practice
3
Mandatory recycling and
diversion with diversion
targets above the minimum
CALGreen requirements
(65%). This could be a
uniform target, or different
La Mesa, CA
San Diego, CA
The Cities of La Mesa and San
Diego set a 75% diversion target,
which exceeds the 65% CALGreen
Requirement.
Chula Vista, CA Targets by material type: The City
of Chula Vista requires 100%
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Tier Policy Option Example Description/Notes
target tiers based on factors
such as: material type,
project type, project cost,
project size, or other
factors.
diversion of inert waste (concrete,
asphalt, bricks, tile, trees, stumps,
rocks, etc.) and 65% of the
remaining types of waste
generated.
Dublin, CA Targets by project type: The City of
Dublin requires diversion of 75% of
the waste for new construction
generated on a job site; and, 65%
of the waste for remodels or
tenant improvement project.
(100% of asphalt and concrete
debris must be recycled, regardless
of project type)
Alameda
County, CA
Targets by project size: Alameda
County’s diversion requirement
thresholds apply to all demolition
projects, as well as residential
projects >1,000 sq. ft. and
commercial projects >3,000 sq. ft.
4 Establish a performance
deposit system for meeting
diversion requirements
Chula Vista, CA
La Mesa, CA
San Diego, CA
See Section 2.4, “Incentive-Based
Policies”
Minimum
Action
5 Adopt the minimum
CALGreen diversion target
and requirements in the
Municipal Code and
prohibit all organic waste
(based on the SB 1383
regulatory definition) from
being deposited in landfills;
and, ensure these
provisions are enforceable
at the local level.
Jurisdictions
statewide.
SB 1383 requires locally
“enforceable mechanisms” to be
passed. The city, as a minimum
action, will need to evaluate its
current code to ensure the
CALGreen incorporation by
reference is enforceable at the
city-level. Many jurisdictions
around the state are in the drafting
process for these updates.
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3. Summary of Options
• Ban all C&D materials from landfills (some or all material types)
• Adopt a mandatory deconstruction ordinance
• Adopt a C&D recycling ordinance with diversion targets above the 65% CALGreen requirement
• Evaluate current CALGreen adoption in Municipal Code to ensure it is locally enforceable and that
organic waste is recovered.
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High Environmental Impact Policy Option 2 - Disposal Ban: Carpet
1. Current Status
City Policies/Programs:
• The City of Carlsbad accepts carpet in its bulky item collection program.
San Diego County Jurisdictions:
• Currently, no jurisdictions in San Diego County have a carpet disposal bans.
• Education examples: San Diego County.
Existing Legislation:
• AB 2398 (Perez, 2010). AB 2398 established California’s statewide carpet stewardship
program. The law includes a requirement that, effective January 1, 2019, all carpet sold or
shipped/distributed in California must have a fee assessed at the point of sale of $0.35 per
square yard in order to fund the program. Carpet America Recovery Effort (CARE) manages
the program. Retailers shall not sell carpet from non-compliant manufacturers.
• AB 1158 (Chu, 2017) amended the carpet stewardship law to include additional recycling rate
goals and authority for CalRecycle to establish additional recycling rate goals in the future;
the formation of an advisory committee; specific requirements for postconsumer carpet
removal from state buildings; and, a clause specifying that the funding from fees collected
cannot be used for certain disposal methods.
• AB 729 (Chu, 2019) amended the carpet stewardship law in 2019; effective January 1, 2020, to
include a requirement for a contingency plan.
2. Policy Options Detail
Examples from San Diego County jurisdictions, if any, are emphasized.
Tier Policy Option Example Description/Notes
Leader 1 Ban carpet from being
deposited at landfills and
deposited in the collection
stream.
Seattle, WA The City of Seattle includes carpet
in its recyclable Construction &
Demolition debris disposal ban.
Customary
Practice
2 N/A N/A N/A
Minimum
Action
3 Provide educational
resources on textile
recycling and reuse.
statewide Carpet America Recovery Effort
(CARE) provides resources for
carpet recycling including a Drop-
Off Site map and options for carpet
reuse.
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Tier Policy Option Example Description/Notes
4 Alameda
County, CA
Contra Costa
County, CA
City of Palo
Alto, CA
Alameda County, Contra Costa
County, and the City of Palo Alto
have an online guide called
“resource” with locations in the
area that provide carpet recycling
and reuse. The locations are
labeled based on pick-up/drop-off
options and pricing.
5 San Diego
County, CA
San Diego County’s Construction
and Demolition Recycling Guide
includes resources for carpet
recycling. It includes locations in
the county that accept carpets or
carpet padding for recycling.
3. Summary of Options
• Implement a disposal ban on carpet
• Implement mandatory carpet recycling and provide recycling service
• Increase take-back options
• Increase educational materials provided/ create an education campaign
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High Environmental Impact Policy Option 3 - Disposal Ban:
Mattresses
1. Current Status
City Policies/Programs:
• The City of Carlsbad accepts mattresses in its bulky item collection program.
San Diego County Jurisdictions:
• Disposal bans: none.
• Education examples: City of San Diego.
Existing Legislation:
• SB 254: Used Mattress Recovery and Recycling Act (2013). California’s Used Mattress
Recovery and Recycling Act requires mattress manufacturers to create a statewide recycling
program for mattresses and box springs. The program is funded through a fee per unit sold.
The bill requires retailers to provide consumers the option to have old mattresses picked up,
requires the mattress recycling organization to develop a state plan for recycling used
mattresses, and prohibits a manufacturer, renovator, or retailer from selling in or importing
a mattress into the state under noncompliance circumstances. This bill helped to establish
“Bye Bye Mattress” which helps individuals find drop‐off locations for their used mattresses.
Legislation has since been passed making modifications to the Act, such as AB 187 (Garcia,
2019) which placed additional specifications on organizational practices and reporting.
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2. Policy Options Detail
Examples from San Diego County jurisdictions, if any, are emphasized.
Tier Policy Option Example Description/Notes
Leader 1 Ban mattresses from being
deposited at landfills and
deposited in the collection
stream
Santa Cruz
County, CA
Santa Cruz County’s County Code
includes a section that lists a large
variety of materials banned
disposal in the landfill, including
mattresses.
Customary
Practice
3
Periodic collection events
for mattresses
City of Visalia,
CA
The City of Visalia, hosts an annual
“Dump on Us” recycling event that
collects a variety of recyclable
materials, including mattresses.
Sonoma
County, CA
Sonoma County hosts free
mattress recycling collection
events throughout the county.
Minimum
Action
5 Provide educational
resources on mattress
recycling
statewide Bye Bye Mattress has a website
that provides educational
resources on retailer take back
programs, household mattress
recycling programs, and
commercial mattress recycling
programs.
City of San
Diego, CA
The City of San Diego has
information on the recycling page
of its website about mattress
recycling practices and locations
where residents can recycle their
mattresses.
3. Summary of Options
• Implement a disposal ban
• Implement mandatory recycling and provide recycling service
• Increase take-back options
• Increase educational materials provided/ create an education campaign
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High Environmental Impact Policy Option 4 - Disposal Ban:
Textiles
1. Current Status
City Policies and Programs:
• None in place.
San Diego County Jurisdictions:
• Disposal bans: none.
• Education examples: Encinitas and San Diego County.
Relevant Recent Legislation:
• No relevant legislation identified at this stage.
2. Policy Options Detail
Examples from San Diego County jurisdictions, if any, are emphasized.
Tier Policy Option Example Description/Notes
Leader 1 Ban textiles from being
deposited at landfills and
deposited in the collection
stream
City of North
Bay, Ontario
(Canada)
The City of North Bay includes
textiles on the list of items that
prohibited from being disposed
of in city landfills.
2 Mandatory recycling of textiles Rhode Island The State of Rhode Island
mandates recycling of textiles
in landfills for all municipalities,
single-family and commercial
generators, and haulers.
3 Mandatory recycling and
curbside collection program for
textiles
New York City,
NY
New York City has a curbside
textile recycling collection
program and mandates that if
textiles make up > 10% of the
commercial recycling stream,
they must be separated and
recycled.
Customary
Practice
4 Periodic collection events for
textiles
Santa Monica,
CA
The City of Santa Monica
provides collection events for
textiles, as well as textile
recycling drop-off boxes. While
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3. Summary of Options
• Implement a disposal ban on textiles
• Implement mandatory textile recycling and provide recycling service
• Increase take-back options
• Increase educational materials provided/ create an education campaign
5 Place drop-off containers at
various city-owned properties
for textiles. (Partner with reuse
organizations, charities, or
other non-profits that handle
textiles)
this type of program is not a
material ban, it can be a
supportive step for providing
alternative resources if
implementing a material ban
or as a standalone program.
See Section 2.3 for more details
on take-back programs.
Minimum
Action
6 Provide educational resources
on textile recycling and reuse.
Encinitas, CA The City of Encinitas has a
webpage dedicated to
information about textile
reduction, reuse, and recycling.
It includes lists of local
resources for repairs, donation,
drop-off, etc., as well as an
interactive map of locations.
San Diego
County, CA
San Diego County has a similar
webpage with educational
information including graphics,
tips for waste reduction, and
statistics/information
regarding the recycling
process.
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Overview
This section summarizes research regarding how different jurisdictions at the local, state, national, and
international levels are implementing policies and programs to address the sustainable materials
management issues and material types identified as additional policy options in this Implementation Plan.
Examples from within San Diego County were identified as much as possible. In addition to researching
existing ordinance and policy examples, relevant recently passed or upcoming legislation and regulations
were identified to enable the city to stay ahead of the curve with future policy requirements.
Structure of Research and Analysis Summary for Each Policy:
Each policy is reviewed in the following format:
1. Current Status: Identifies and briefly describes current city programs and policies, if any, as well
as highlights current examples of policies and programs from other jurisdictions within San Diego
County, if any were identified during preliminary research. Additionally, highlights certain current or
upcoming state legislation or regulations that relate to each policy option.
2. Policy Options Detail. Lays out descriptions of selected policy options and examples of other
jurisdictions that have implemented the example policy or related programs. These examples are
organized into one of the following tiers:
i. Leader: Following this track would align the city with the policies of jurisdictions in the state, and
in some cases in the nation or world, that are leaders in sustainable material management.
ii. Customary Practice: The customary practice tier represents options that have either been
replicated in multiple jurisdictions and are commonly used, and/or represent the “middle ground”
of actions that may be taken.
iii. Minimum Action: The minimum action tier includes policy options the city can take to
demonstrate a step in the direction of sustainable materials management, but to a lesser degree
than customary practice.
3. Summary of Options. Provides a brief overview of the various ways each policy can be implemented.
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Section 1. Material Bans
Material bans, sometimes called “product bans,” can be a powerful tool for targeting problematic
materials, particularly those that are difficult to recycle or that commonly end up as litter or pollutants.
Material bans are a common approach to sustainable materials management for jurisdictions across the
State of California. For example, according to Californians Against Waste, at least 120 jurisdictions across
the state have implemented local bans on polystyrene15 and 150 have implemented local plastic bag ban
ordinances16. By implementing a material ban, Carlsbad would be aligned with these jurisdictions,
including many San Diego County jurisdictions that are using this approach.
Planning for material bans may also set the city up for success in the event of future statewide legislation,
which has shown trends toward increased interest in reducing waste of single-use materials. For example,
numerous pieces of legislation have been introduced in the 2021 legislative session that target single-use
plastic materials and reducing plastic pollution (See “current status” sections throughout this Appendix,
which describe relevant legislation). The City of Carlsbad can think two-steps ahead by tracking legislation
and beginning to implement plastic reduction strategies at the local level.
Materials to consider long-term for bans for have been included here.
A. Cigarette/Tobacco Products
1. Current Status
City Programs/Policies:
• Smoking is currently prohibited in unenclosed dining Areas (Municipal Code Chapter 6.14), and at
beaches and parks (Municipal Code Section 11.32.110). Electronic cigarette use is prohibited
wherever smoking is prohibited (Municipal Code Chapter 6.18)
• It is illegal within a park or beach in the city to dump or deposit any trash, refuse, rubbish, litter, or
other kind of waste materials, except in approved containers specifically placed and designated to
receive such waste materials (Municipal Code Section 11.32.030)
San Diego Jurisdictions:
None identified in this research stage, beyond standard smoking restrictions.
Relevant Recent Legislation:
SB 8 (Glazer, 2019). SB 8 prohibits smoking on state beaches and state parks.
15 “Polystyrene: Local Ordinances,” Californians Against Waste.
https://www.cawrecycles.org/polystyrene-local-ordinances
16 “Plastic Bags: Local Ordinances,” Californians Against Waste. https://www.cawrecycles.org/list-of-
local-bag-bans
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Inactive:
SB 424 (Jackson, 2019-2020). This bill did not pass in the 2019-2020 legislative session. It would have
prohibited the sale of single-use tobacco products (single use filters, single-use plastic devices, single-use
electronic cigarettes). This bill would also require the manufacturer of a tobacco product to use materials
eligible for recycling under state or local recycling programs, including electronic waste recycling
programs; or, collect components that are not eligible for recycling through a take-back or mail-back
program.
2. Policy Options Detail
Examples from San Diego County jurisdictions, if any, are emphasized.
Tier Policy Option Example Description/Notes
Leader 1 Ban sale of tobacco products,
including both single use tobacco
products and electronic smoking
devices.
Beverly Hills,
CA (2019)
The City of Beverly Hills
passed a comprehensive
ban on the sale of all
tobacco products in the
city, including both
cigarettes and electronic
smoking devices, along
with other tobacco
products. The ordinance
applies to all retailers in
the city, with some
exemptions for cigar
lounges and hotels. The
ordinance requires City
Council to conduct a
study session three years
after the ordinance’s
effective date on impacts
to local businesses and
tourism.
2 Ban electronic smoking devices Beverly Hills,
CA (2019)
San Francisco,
CA (2020)
The City of Beverly Hills’
tobacco ban also includes
electronic smoking
devices.
The City of San Francisco
prohibits the retail sale of
certain electronic
cigarettes.
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3 Ban smoking in all public areas Laguna Beach,
CA (2017
The City of Laguna Beach
expanded their smoking
prohibitions to include all
public areas, including
sidewalks, streets, alleys,
and common areas of
multi-unit residences
(e.g., laundry rooms, play
areas, and pools). The
ban includes all smoking
devices, including
tobacco, e-cigarettes,
vaporizers, and
marijuana.
3. Summary of Options
• Ban sale of tobacco products (single-use, electronic, etc.)
• Restrict smoking areas further.
B. Paper Receipts, Phone Books, and Mail
1. Current Status
City Programs/Policies
• None in place.
San Diego Jurisdictions
• Examples of other jurisdictions in San Diego County with relevant policies or programs:
• Policies: None identified at this research stage.
• Educational material: San Diego County
Relevant Recent Legislation
No current policies.
Inactive
AB 161 (Ting, 2019-2020) –AB 161 bill would prohibit businesses from providing a paper receipt to a
customer unless requested by the customer. The bill would also prohibit receipts from containing the
chemicals BPA or BPS and prohibit items that are not essential to the transaction from being included on
the receipt (e.g., coupons, ads, etc.).
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2. Policy Options Detail
Examples from San Diego County jurisdictions, if any, are emphasized.
Tier Policy Option Example Description/Notes
Leader
1 Require that paper receipts
be provided only upon
request
California
(2019 - 2020)
Not passed
Assembly member Ting
introduced AB 161, which would
allow business to provide paper
receipts only if the customer opts
to receive one. The bill would
have also prohibited receipts
from containing the chemicals
BPA or BPS, and would prohibit
including items on receipt that are
not essential to the transaction
(e.g., coupons, ads, etc.) in order
to reduce length of receipts. The
bill did not pass the senate
appropriations committee.
2 Prohibit distribution of paper
phone books without
permission of the recipient.
San Francisco,
CA and
Seattle, WA
(Overturned)
Seattle and San Francisco both
passed ordinances that aimed to
restrict waste from unwanted
paper phone books. San Francisco
banned companies from leaving
unsolicited phone books with
permission of the resident or
business; and Seattle created a
city-run opt-out system called
“Stop Phone Books” and required
directory publishers to pay cost of
recycling. (Seattle’s ordinance
was overturned by a U.S. Ninth
Circuit Court of Appeals decision
that the ordinance infringed upon
the 1st amendment rights of the
phone book publishers). San
Francisco did not go through with
their ordinance in response to the
Seattle ruling.
Both Cities now instead have
webpages that link users to the
existing opt-out service website
run by Yellow Pages.
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Tier Policy Option Example Description/Notes
Customary
Practice
3 Create a city webpage that
encourages residents to
reduce paper waste from
unwanted phone books and
junk mail and provide links to
existing phone book and junk
mail opt-out services. (Non-
policy option)
Long Beach,
CA
Berkeley,
Oakland, San
Francisco, LA
County, and
other
California
jurisdictions.
Long Beach has a “No More Junk
Mail” webpage that provides
information for opting out of
phone books and junk mail, states
the benefits of opting out, and
reminds residents to recycle any
unwanted mixed paper that they
do receive
Oakland. LA County, San Francisco
and various other jurisdictions
have similar webpages.
City of Berkeley has specifically
engaged a partnership with a
specific service called Catalog
Choice, to help residents navigate
opting out of junk mail.
3. Summary of options
• Receipts upon request only
• Prohibit distribution of paper phone books without consent of recipient
• Encourage voluntary reduction in phone books/junk mail; create a city webpage for resources for
phone book opt out and junk mail reduction
C. Single-Serving Beverage Pods
Single serving pods for hot beverages (often referred to as “K-Cups”), have become increasingly popular;
however, they generate waste with each use and are not recyclable in most municipal systems. The pods
are often made of multiple materials (such as the plastic exterior pod, aluminum foil top, fiber/plastic
blend filter, lining materials, and organic coffee grounds) making them nearly impossible to recycle.
Consumers are becoming increasingly aware of this issues, and new reusable, compostable, and recyclable
options have begun to emerge on the market. Keurig has made the statement that 100% of their coffee
pods will be recyclable by the end of 2020 (using #5 plastic); however, even if they are made from a
recyclable plastic, these pods are too small to be processed in municipal recycling systems.
1. Current Status
City Programs/Policies
No policy currently in place.
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San Diego Jurisdictions
None identified in this research stage.
Relevant Recent Legislation
None identified in this research stage.
2. Policy Options Detail
Examples from San Diego County jurisdictions, if any, are emphasized.
Tier Policy Option Example Description/Notes
Leader 1 Prohibit the sale of single-serving
beverage pod refills and dispensers.
Santa Cruz
County, CA
While no policy has
been passed, Santa
Cruz County included
banning coffee pods on
a list of potential
policies that was
presented to the Board
of Supervisors for
consideration and
included on a survey
sent to residents on
pollution reduction
policy options.
1a. a. Sub-option: allow exemptions for
pods that are reusable, compostable,
or recyclable
2 Prohibit the purchase and use of
single-serving beverages pods or
dispensers at city facilities.
Hamburg,
Germany
(2016)
Hamburg, Germany
became the first city to
ban coffee pods and
dispensers from being
used at city facilities.
3. Summary of Options
• Ban sale of single-use coffee pods and dispensers (all pod types, or only non-recyclable or non-
compostable)
• Prohibit purchase and use of single-serving beverage pods at city facilities/events.
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Section 2. Disposal Bans
Disposal Bans are a materials management policy tool that prohibits the disposal of certain material types.
The State of California currently already has disposal bans on many material types, particularly hazardous
waste, but jurisdictions across the state are taking further action by banning the disposal of items at the
local level in order to promote reuse or recycling of those items. The city’s Sustainable Materials
Management Plan specifically suggests banning disposal of C&D materials and green waste at the Palomar
Transfer Station and through the city’s commercial and residential collection system. This Section outlines
those suggestions as well as lists additional materials that the city can consider as part of a disposal ban
policy. Section 2A includes a general list of multiple material types, followed by subsections 2.B-2.D which
highlight and expand on some of those materials in more detail.
A. Recyclables or Household Hazardous Waste
1. Current Status
Current City Policies/Programs
• The city follows restrictions for materials banned from landfills under existing restrictions by
the State of California (see below).
• While not a disposal ban, the city accepts a variety of materials through bulky item collection
(A/C units, barbeques, furniture, appliances, E-waste, mattresses, and certain other items
with special handling). Providing collection service for items is important, however this does
not decrease the disposal of these items.
San Diego County Jurisdictions
Examples of other San Diego jurisdictions used throughout this Section include: San Diego, San Diego
County, Chula Vista, Oceanside, Encinitas, and La Mesa. The majority of these jurisdictions do not have
strict disposal bans, but have been used as examples of other policy/program options. See below for
details.
Existing Legislation
• Multiple existing state regulations already prohibit a variety of materials from being disposed
of in the State of California, such as: car batteries, cars, computers, CRTs, electronics, medical
sharps, mercury thermostats, motor oil, NiCad batteries, paint, tires, and white goods.
• AB 341 and AB 1826 established mandatory recycling and organics collection, respectively, for
certain commercial generators; see below for details.
• SB 1383 (Lara, 2016); SB 1383 Regulations (CalRecycle, 2020). SB 1383 establishes statewide
targets to reduce the statewide disposal of organic waste by 50% by 2020 and 75% by 2025;
and requires that not less than 20% of edible food that is currently disposed be recovered for
human consumption by 2025. To support these goals, the SB 1383 Regulations developed by
CalRecycle require jurisdictions, effective January 1, 2022, to establish organic waste
collection and processing programs, food recovery programs, contamination monitoring,
education and outreach, recovered organic waste product and recycled paper procurement,
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enforcement, and other programmatic requirements; and, pass ordinances or other
enforceable mechanisms to ensure compliance with these programs. As it relates to disposal
bans, the city, at a minimum, will need to pass policies to mandate recovery and collection of
organic waste (including both food waste and green waste) and ensure haulers and facility
operators comply with certain standards. The city should also prohibit use of organic materials
as Alternative Daily Cover of Alternative Intermediate Cover. See below for details.
• AB 332 (Committee on ESTM, 2021). This bill requires a person managing treated wood waste
to comply with the hazardous waste control laws or the management standards established
in the bill, including standards for the reuse, storage, treatment, transportation, tracking,
identification, and disposal of treated wood waste (TWW). This bill limits those standards to
TWW that is hazardous only because of a preservative present in or on the wood, and that is
not subject to the existing exemption for certain wood waste or to regulation as a hazardous
waste under federal law.
Vetoed
• SB 244 (Archuleta, 2021). This bill would have required CalRecycle, in consultation with DTSC,
on or before July 1, 2024, to develop a guidance document related to the proper handling and
disposal of lithium-ion batteries.
2. Policy Options Detail
The following is an overview of potential materials that could be banned from disposal. Some of these
materials have separate subsections for more detail. Examples from San Diego County jurisdictions, if any,
are emphasized.
Tier Policy Option Example Description/Notes
Customary
Practice
Tires Santa Cruz
County, CA
Santa Cruz County’s County
Code includes a section that lists
a large variety of materials
banned disposal in the landfill,
including the materials listed to
the left.
Paper and Cardboard
Plastic containers (resin #1-7)
Cartons and aseptic packaging
Container glass
Electronics
Aluminum can, trays, and foil
Tin and steel cans
Scrap metal (including white
goods and appliances)
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Motor oil and filters
Dry cell and lead acid batteries
Electronic waste
Minimum
Action
Recyclable Materials San Diego, CA The City of San Diego’s recycling
ordinance prohibits disposal of
recyclable materials.
Other Policy
Considerations
Ensure the disposal ban is
locally enforceable.
Santa Cruz
County, CA
Violation of Santa Cruz County’s
disposal ban is handled as a
violation in accordance with
other parts of their County Code
– General Penalties and
Enforcement, Nuisance
Abatement, and/or
Enforcement by County Health
Officer.
Provide informational
materials/create an education
campaign.
Encinitas, CA
San Diego
County, CA
Various other
California
jurisdictions
An education and information
campaign and/or webpage
could be created for reduction,
reuse, and recycling of a variety
of materials. Education can be
conducted in conjunction with a
disposal ban or other policy, or
as a first step without enacting
formal policy.
See Section 2.2.D for an
example from Encinitas and San
Diego County who have
education pages for textile
recycling.
Provide collection and take-
back opportunities
See Section 2.3 In lieu of, or in addition to a
disposal ban, the city can create
take-back program for materials
that are difficult to recycle. See
Section 2.3 for details.
3. Summary of Options
Review and select materials from the examples above that the city is interested in pursuing for a
disposal ban. At a minimum, prohibiting disposal of organic waste (including use as ADC and AIC) will be
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required, as described in Section D. See the attached Policy Design Guides for more detail on the options
selected.
B. Organic Materials – Green Waste
1. Current Status
City Policies and Programs
• No disposal ban in place
• Curbside collection for green waste is available
San Diego County Jurisdictions
Examples of San Diego County jurisdictions: City of San Diego.
Relevant Recent Legislation
• AB 1826 (Chesbro, 2014). AB 1826 established mandatory commercial organics recycling for
businesses. Jurisdictions, effective April 1, 2016, are required to implement an organic waste
recycling program, and businesses are required to arrange for organics recycling service,
depending on the amount of waste generated by the business per week.
• SB 1383 (Lara, 2016); SB 1383 Regulations (CalRecycle, 2020). SB 1383 Regulations require
that the city, effective January 1, 2022, establish organic waste collection and processing
programs (among many other requirements), and pass ordinances or other enforceable
mechanisms to ensure compliance with these programs. As it relates to disposal bans, the
city, at a minimum, will need to pass policies to mandate recovery and collection of organic
waste and ensure haulers and facility operators comply with certain standards. The city
should also prohibit use of organic materials as Alternative Daily Cover (ADC) of Alternative
Intermediate Cover (AIC).
• AB 1594 (Williams, 2014). AB 1594 mandates that, as of January 1, 2020, the use of green
material as Alternative Daily Cover (ADC) no longer constitutes diversion through recycling
and is considered disposal for the purpose of measuring the jurisdiction’s per capita disposal
rate.
Inactive
• AB 1086 (Aguiar-Curry, 2021). This bill would request that the California Council on Science
and Technology, in consultation with its research partners and other state agencies, complete
a report that provides an implementation strategy to achieve the state’s organic waste, and
related climate change and air quality, mandates, goals, and targets. The bill would require
the implementation strategy to include, among other things, recommendations on policy and
funding support for the beneficial reuse of organic waste.
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2. Policy Options Detail
Tier Policy Option Example Description/Notes
Minimum
Action
Organic Materials:
Prohibit disposal of Organic
Waste in landfills, (including
prohibiting use as ADC/AIC) and
in the collection stream.
Additionally, ensure these
provisions are enforceable at
the local level.
(This is marked as a “minimum
action,” as it will be required for
implementation of SB 1383)
San Diego, CA
Jurisdictions
statewide
The City of San Diego’s recycling
ordinance prohibits disposal of
certain organic materials.
Jurisdictions across the state will
need to implement this policy in
order to comply with SB 1383,
and many are in the drafting
process to update their municipal
and county codes.
3. Summary of Options
• The recommended policy option at this time is to implement an enforceable disposal ban for
Organic Waste at facilities and through the collection stream, including prohibiting use of organic
waste as ADC/AIC.
B.2 Organic Materials - Edible Food
1. Current Status
Current City Policies/Programs
• No formal policy in place.
• The city provides some links to resources on food waste prevention and donation on its
website.
San Diego County Jurisdictions
• San Diego County Jurisdictions with ordinances: none identified in this stage
• Other program or education examples: Oceanside, City of San Diego, San Diego County, and
Chula Vista.
Relevant Recent Legislation
• AB 614 (Eggman, 2019). AB 614 expands the types of food and food handling that are eligible
for the “Farm to Food Bank Tax Credit,” which expands incentive opportunities for food
recovery.
• AB 1219 (Eggman, 2017). AB 1219, the California Good Samaritan Food Donation Act, expands
liability protections for food donors in good faith. This act was monumental for protecting and
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expanding food recovery efforts, and is an important piece of legislation for donors to be
aware of as food recovery programs expand in response to SB 1383. There is similar federal
legislation, the “Bill Emerson Good Samaritan Food Donation Act,” but California’s legislation
is more comprehensive.
• SB 1383 (Lara, 2016); SB 1383 Regulations (CalRecycle, 2020). In addition to the organic waste
collection and processing mentioned above, SB 1383 sets a statewide target of recovering for
human consumption 20% of edible food that is currently disposed. The SB 1383 regulations
place programmatic requirements on jurisdictions, food recovery organizations, food
recovery services, and commercial edible food generators to achieve that goal. The city will
be required to implement an edible food recovery program, including, but not limited to,
capacity planning, education, inspection, enforcement, and passing ordinances or other
enforceable mechanisms.
Proposed
• SB 240 (Eggman, 2021). This bill would extend the authorization for the farm to food bank tax
credit for an additional five years (to January 1, 2027).
• AB 1027 (Seyarto, 2021) and SB 619 (Laird, 2021). Both of these bills are intent bills to delay
implementation of the SB 1383 regulations. The city is advised to monitor the progression of
these bills, but to continue planning for SB 1383 compliance and food recovery programs by
January 1, 2022.
2. Policy Options Detail
Tier Policy Option Example Description/Notes
Leader
1 Require all food generating
businesses and grocery
stores/supermarkets in the city
to donate edible food (beyond
the Tier 1 and Tier 2 categories
of SB 1383).
France
France’s 2016 law requires
supermarkets larger than 4,305
square feet to sign an agreement with
a food recovery organization to
accept its excess edible food.
California’s SB 1383 regulations
define grocery stores that are Tier 1
generators as 10,000 sq. ft. France’s
law encompasses smaller grocery
stores as well.
2 Create city funded and/or
operated food recovery
programs.
Oceanside,
CA
The City of Oceanside has already
begun expanding food recovery
infrastructure by creating a brand-
new food recovery facility and
program called the Green Oceanside
Kitchen. The city provides funding and
partners with the non-profit
Oceanside Kitchen Collaborative
(OKC) for operations of the holistic
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Tier Policy Option Example Description/Notes
model, including: food recovery
operations, workforce development
program, meal distribution to
communities, community culinary
classes, and social enterprise
catering.
While not a disposal ban, this is an
example of a city-run program that
will be helpful for SB 1383 regulatory
requirements and would complement
a disposal ban
3 Adopt a city administrative
policy that establishes a bid
preference for city contracts
for food vendors that reduce
food waste, use recovered
food, or otherwise
demonstrate sustainable food
practices.
N/A No current examples have been
identified during this research phase.
The city could be a leader by
implementing this policy. This would
likely fall under the city’s
environmentally preferred
purchasing policy, rather than the
disposal ban, but is included here as a
programmatic supplement idea.
Minimum
Action
4 Prohibit food waste from being
disposed of in landfills;
establish an edible food
recovery program in
accordance with SB 1383
regulations; and, pass
enforceable ordinances to
require compliance with the
program.
(This is listed as a minimum
requirement, as it will be
required for compliance with
the SB 1383 regulations)
statewide Jurisdictions across the state will be
required to implement these actions
and update their municipal
codes/county codes. Many are
currently in the drafting process for
these updates.
San Diego
Food
Systems
Alliance
An example of an organization and
partnership opportunity is the San
Diego Food Systems Alliance. The San
Diego Food Systems Alliance is a
successful and well-established
organization that promotes cross-
sector collaboration, leads regional
food system planning, influences
policy, engages communities, and
more. They operate a Wasted Food
Prevention Program that provides
comprehensive and specialized
services such as technical assistance,
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Tier Policy Option Example Description/Notes
consumer education, network
development, etc.
5 Increase the education
materials provided by the city.
(Note that SB 1383 requires
minimum education
requirements for food
recovery programs.)
San Diego
County, CA
San Diego,
CA
Chula
Vista, CA
San Diego County created the
“ReThink Waste” campaign, which
includes education and
encouragement to reduce food
waste. They also have a webpage on
their website dedicated to wasted
food reduction. It includes
information on reducing wasted food,
links to resources, information on
how and where to donate food
locally, and an interactive section to
learn about food storage techniques
for different food items. The county
created a “Too Good to Waste” guide,
which has been used as a resource by
jurisdictions across the state and
beyond.
The Cities of San Diego and Chula
Vista also have additional educational
materials.
Under the SB 1383 regulations, the
city will be required to educate
generators and post a list of food
recovery organizations in the city, and
update that list annually.
3. Summary of Options
• Go above and beyond SB 1383 minimum compliance for a more robust food recovery program
• Require food recovery by generators beyond those included in SB 1383 regulatory
requirements
• Create and/or fund new food recovery projects within the city, beyond existing requirements
under SB 1383
• Expanded education, outreach, and technical assistance programs
• Comply with SB 1383 minimum compliance for edible food recovery (required; not handled
through this phase of the project, but to be evaluated during the SB 1383 implementation phases)
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Section 3. Take-Back, Product Stewardship, and EPR
The city’s Sustainable Materials Management Plan (SMMP) identifies a policy category that includes the
approaches of Product Stewardship (PS), Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), and Take-Back
Ordinances (Take-Back). Product Stewardship is a policy framework that places a “shared responsibility
for end-of-life product management on the producers, and all entities involved in the product chain,
instead of the general public; while encouraging product design changes that minimize a negative impact
on human health and the environment at every stage of the product's lifecycle.”17 Extended Producer
Responsibility is a mandatory form of Product Stewardship that includes government oversight and
enforcement of the manufacturers/producers. Take-Back programs require or encourage retailers and/or
producers to accept back materials from consumers, at no charge to the consumer, and manage the
proper recycling, reuse, or disposal processes for each material type. While Take-Back programs are
common components of EPR frameworks, the city’s SMMP more narrowly focuses Take-Back programs
on local retailers rather than producers. The city’s SMMP recommends that the city consider Take-Back
ordinances for products that are difficult and costly to manage. Specific examples of materials highlighted
in the SMMP for consideration are: sharps, pharmaceuticals, batteries, and cigarette butts. In this policy
summary section, certain material types have been highlighted in their own more detailed section, and
others have been included in a more general material list section, based on the recommended materials
in the SMMP, plausibility for an ordinance at the local level, and/or availability of examples. The city’s
SMMP does not focus on Extended Producer Responsibility at the local level, but instead suggests that
the city advocate for Product Stewardship and Extended Producer Responsibility at the regional, state, or
national level.
Section 3.1. Take-Back Ordinances
A. Batteries
1. Current Status
City Programs/Policies
• No policy in place.
• The city allows residents to place used batteries in a clear plastic bag on top of the recyclable materials
cart for curbside collection.
San Diego Jurisdictions
None identified during this research stage.
Relevant Recent Legislation
• The Rechargeable Battery Recycling Act of 2006 requires retailers to have a system for the acceptance
and collection of used rechargeable batteries for reuse, recycling, or proper disposal.
17 “Product Stewardship and Extended Producer Responsibility” CalRecycle.
https://www.calrecycle.ca.gov/epr
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• The Cell Phone Recycling Act of 2004 requires cell phone retailers to have a take back system for the
acceptance and collection of used cell phones for reuse, recycling, or proper disposal.
Proposed
• SB 289 (Newman, 2021). The bill would enact the Battery and Battery-Embedded Product Recycling
and Fire Risk Reduction Act of 2021, which would require producers to establish a stewardship
program for batteries and battery embedded products. Stewardship organizations or producers must
submit a plan for the collection, transportation, and recycling of batteries or battery embedded
products by June 30, 2024. The bill would require the plan to include a collection system for batteries
and battery-embedded products with a certain number of collection site as well as a funding
mechanism.
Inactive
• AB 1509 (Mullin & Berman, 2019) This bill was not passed in the 2019-2020 session, but would have
established the lithium-ion battery recycling program in CalRecycle and would authorize a retailer to
achieve the recycling rates for covered battery-embedded products through a take-back program or
other specified mechanism. It also requires manufacturers to pay administrative fees to CalRecycle
for the administration of the program, and the bill would establish the Lithium-Ion Battery Recycling
Cost of Implementation Account.
2. Policy Options Detail
Examples from San Diego County jurisdictions, if any, are emphasized.
Tier # Policy Option Example Description/Notes
Leader 1 Require that all producers
of batteries that sell or
otherwise distribute
batteries to retailers or
other entities in the city to
provide and fund a Take-
Back program for the
public, at no charge.
N/A Examples found in this research
stage were retailer-focused rather
than producer-focused, see below.
2 Require that all retailers
that sell batteries within
the city provide a Take-
Back program to the
public, at no charge
San Luis Obispo
County
San Luis Obispo County passed an
ordinance establishing a household
batteries and fluorescent tubes
management program. Through the
San Luis Obispo Integrated Waste
management Authority’s (SLO
IWMA) “Take Back Program”, every
retailer that sells household
batteries in San Luis Obispo County
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must take those items back from the
public for free.
Customary
Practice
3 Work with other cities in
the county to encourage
the County of San Diego to
adopt an ordinance
establishing a countywide
take-back program for
batteries.
San Luis Obispo
County
As described above, SLO IWMA
established a battery Take-Back
program. The city could work with
other cities in the county to
advocate for a county ordinance
modeled off San Luis Obispo
County’s ordinance.
4 Conduct a pilot project to
test Product Stewardship
programs for batteries,
prior to passing a
mandatory ordinance.
San Gabriel
Valley Council
of
Governments
The San Gabriel Valley Council of
Governments established a pilot
project to demonstrate how battery
manufacturers can design a
stewardship program that provides
convenient battery collection
locations. The pilot was funded with
a grant from CalRecycle. Forty local
businesses participated in the
program and served as Take-Back
sites. While the grant for the pilot
ended March 31, 2012, the plan is to
continue supporting the businesses
as battery Take-Back sites, in
partnership with Call2Recycle.
Call2Recycle will provide the
collection boxes, shipping expenses,
and recycling at no cost to the sites
and the SGVCOG will provide
technical assistance to the sites and
promote awareness amongst
residents.
5 Expand the types of
batteries accepted in the
city’s existing curbside
service or Stericycle.
N/A N/A – city-specific.
Minimum
Action
6 Create a voluntary
program to encourage
retailers to provide battery
take-back services.
N/A No voluntary battery ordinances
identified during this research stage.
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3. Summary of Options
• Create a mandatory take-back program for batteries (either producer or retailer
funded/managed).
• Expand current collection services.
• Create a voluntary program.
B. Fluorescent Light Bulbs
1. Current Status
City Programs/Policies
• None in place.
• Residents may take their fluorescent bulbs and tubes to a household hazardous waste facility as part
of the city’s Household Hazardous Waste Program. Residents may also request door-to-door pick up
service through CleanEarth for a fee.
San Diego Jurisdictions
• None identified in this research stage.
Recent legislation
• None identified in this research stage.
2. Policy Options Detail
Examples from San Diego County jurisdictions, if any, are emphasized.
Tier # Policy Option Example Description/Notes
Leader 1 Require that all retailers
that sell fluorescent lights,
bulbs, or tubes provide a
Take-Back program to the
public, at no charge
San Luis Obispo
County
San Luis Obispo County passed an
ordinance establishing a household
batteries and fluorescent tubes
management program. Through the
San Luis Obispo Integrated Waste
management Authority’s (SLO
IWMA) “Take Back Program”, every
retailer that sells fluorescent tubes
in San Luis Obispo County must take
those items back from the public for
free.
Customary
Practice
2 Work with other cities in
the county to encourage
the County of San Diego to
San Luis Obispo
County
As described above, SLO IWMA
established a fluorescent bulb/tube
take-back program. The city could
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adopt an ordinance
establishing a countywide
Take-Back program for
fluorescent tubes/bulbs.
work with other cities in the county
to advocate for a county ordinance
modeled off San Luis Obispo
County’s ordinance.
3 Expand the city’s current
program through
Stericycle to move toward
an EPR/PS model by having
producers or retailers
provide funding for the
program (rather than
consumers paying for the
service).
N/A N/A – city-specific.
Minimum
Action
4 Create a voluntary
program to encourage
retailers to provide Take-
Back services.
N/A No voluntary ordinances for
fluorescent bulbs identified during
this research stage.
3. Summary of Options
• Create a mandatory take-back program for fluorescent tubes/bulbs (either producer or retailer
funded/managed).
• Expand current collection services.
• Create a voluntary program.
C. Pharmaceuticals and Sharps
1. Current Status
City Programs/Policies
• No policy in place.
• Carlsbad Municipal Code includes a section referencing prescription drug drop boxes at designated
city facilities (Chapter 6.10) and a safe disposal location at the City of Carlsbad Safety Center with
anonymous drop off M-F 8am -5pm.
• The city holds an annual pharmaceutical collection event. The standard method for handling of
prescription drugs is through the San Diego County Sherriff’s department drop off program.
• Residents may take their sharps or needles to a household hazardous waste facility as part of the city’s
Household Hazardous Waste Program.
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• The city has arranged for a contractor to provide residents with a limited number of free mail-back
sharps kits that are available at their main office. Due to limited availability, each household will be
limited to one mail-back kit per year.
San Diego County Jurisdictions
None identified at this stage.
Relevant Recent Legislation
• SB 212 (2018); Regulations (2020). SB 212 requires entities selling pharmaceuticals or home‐use
medical sharps in California to individually, or in cooperation with other entities, develop and
implement a statewide stewardship plan for the collection and disposal of home‐generated
pharmaceuticals and sharps waste. For drug stewardship plans, the plan must have five collection
sites per county or one per 50,000 people, whichever is greater. For home‐generated sharps
stewardship plans, collection is done through prepaid mail‐back containers, for which distribution is
made or initiated at the point of sale with no cost to the consumer. It also requires CalRecycle to adopt
specific regulations.
The CalRecycle regulations were approved and made effective on January 7, 2021. The regulations
preempt local product stewardship programs for pharmaceuticals and sharps, unless those programs
were effective prior to April 18, 2018. Therefore, the city will have limitations with this policy approach
and may want to coordinate with the county to confirm local/regionally available options.
• U.S. Public Law No. 111-273, “Secure and Responsible Drug Disposal Act of 2010” (2010). This federal
law authorized expansion of the permitted methods of pharmaceutical collection, including through
retail collection. Regulations in 2014 implemented the Act, including provisions specifically allowing
retail pharmacies to maintain bins for collection/take-back of controlled substances.
2. Policy Option Detail
Tier # Policy Option Example Description/Notes
Customary
Practice
1
Require retailers and/or
producers that sell, offer for
sale, or distribute drugs within
the city to implement a take-
back program for
pharmaceuticals, promote the
program, and manage proper
disposal of collected materials.
San Luis Obispo
County, CA
San Luis Obispo County has a
mandatory pharmaceutical and
sharps product stewardship
and take-back program.
The county’s first ordinance in
2015 placed costs and
responsibility on retailers, but
their updated 2018 ordinance
shifted responsibility to the
producers. This is an example of
a transitional EPR policy.
Santa Cruz, CA The City of Santa Cruz began
with a voluntary city-funded
take-back program, working
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Tier # Policy Option Example Description/Notes
together with the county and
neighboring cities. The county
then passed mandatory
ordinances in 2014 and 2015,
and the city then followed suit
in 2016 with a mandatory
ordinance in order to create a
more consistent and effective
program for the city/county
partnership.
Alameda
County, CA
Alameda County’s Safe Drug
Disposal Ordinance (2012) was
the first in the U.S. at the time
to require the pharmaceutical
companies/ producers to fund
the program and manage
collection and disposal, and
serves as a leadership model for
EPR.
Since then, many other CA
counties and jurisdictions have
implemented similar programs
(e.g., Counties of Santa Clara,
Marin, San Mateo, and more)
Minimum
Action
2 Create a voluntary, city-funded
take-back program
Santa Cruz, CA The City of Santa Cruz began
with a voluntary city-funded
take-back program for sharps
and pharmaceuticals between
2007 – 2016 prior to passing a
mandatory ordinance (see
above).
3 Expand current efforts, such as
increasing the number of
collection stations and
collection events.
San Diego, CA The City of San Diego has 7
drop-box locations for
pharmaceuticals.
4 Expand the city’s current
program through Stericycle to
move toward an EPR/PS model
by having producers or retailers
provide funding for the
program (rather than
N/A N/A: city-specific
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Tier # Policy Option Example Description/Notes
consumers paying for the
service).
5 Wait until regulations for SB
212 are finalized and consult
with county on available
options.
N/A N/A
3. Summary of Options
• Create a mandatory take-back program for sharps and pharmaceuticals*
• Expand current collection services
• Create a voluntary program
• Review SB 212 regulations and collaborate with county on local/regional approaches
15. *Limitations due to SB 212 preemption; see recommendations mentioned in subsection A.1 above.
D. Plastic Packaging
1. Current Status
City Programs/Policies
None in place.
San Diego Jurisdictions
None identified.
Relevant Recent Legislation
• AB 793 (Ting, 2019-2020): Requires manufacturers to meet minimum recycled content standards for
plastic beverage containers: starting with 15% recycled content per year by 2022, 25% by 2025, and
50% by 2030. Does not include take-back programs, but is an important step for extended producer
responsibility.
• SB 343 (Allen, 2021). This bill prohibits manufacturers from using the “chasing arrows” symbol on
products unless CalRecycle has determined that the product or packaging is recyclable in the state.
• AB 1201 (Ting, 2021) This bill prohibits a person from selling a product that is labeled with the term
“compostable,” “home compostable,” “biodegradable,” “degradable,” or “decomposable,” unless the
product meets certain compostability requirements and requirements for making environmental
marketing claims.
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Proposed
• The Plastics Free California Ballot Initiative is expected to be on the November 2022 ballot. Advocates
for the initiative submitted 870,000+ voter signatures in August 2020 (623,212 signatures were
required to qualify), and it is expected to be approved for the November 2022 ballot in April 2021.
Some key features of the initiative include: i) All single-use plastic packaging must be reusable,
recyclable, or compostable by 2030; ii) statewide ban on polystyrene food containers; iii) Funding for
environmental restoration projects; iv) Funding for new recycling and composting facilities; and, v)
Manufacturers will be charged a fee for single-use plastic packaging/products produced. The fee on
manufacturers is a key component that makes this an extended producer responsibility policy.
Inactive
• AB 3141 (Friedman, 2020). This bill did not pass in the 2019-2020 legislative session. It would have
created requirements for Take-Back programs for plastic bags, packaging, and shipping envelopes,
including: reinstating in-store plastic bag programs; requiring online retailers to provide collection
containers for packaging; and requiring physical retail locations to accept plastic packaging from
online purchases.
• SB 54 (Allen, 2021). This bill would establish the Plastic Pollution Producer Responsibility Act, which
would prohibit producers of single-use disposable packaging or single-use disposable food service
ware products from selling, distributing, or importing these packaging or products within the state
that are manufactured on or after January 1, 2032, unless they are recyclable or compostable.
• AB 478 (Ting, 2021). This bill would establish minimum recycled content standards for thermoform
containers (e.g., clamshell containers).
2. Policy Options Detail
Tier # Policy Option Example Description/Notes
Leader 1 Create an expanded
plastic bag and plastic
packaging Take-Back
program.
State of California
(proposed/inactive)
The State of California has
considered legislation that would
implement expanded plastic
packaging take-back programs
(see AB 3141 above – not passed)
and is currently considering a
number for EPR bills related to
plastic pollution reduction (See
SB 54 above - proposed). See
The city could begin a local
program.
New York City, NY New York City’s plastic bag take-
back program includes a variety
of plastic bag types (beyond just
grocery store bags) specifically
including newspaper bags, dry
cleaning bags, shrink wrap, and
clean food bags.
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Minimum
Action
2 Encourage retailers to
establish voluntary take-
back programs for their
material packaging.
N/A Instead of a mandatory program,
the city could encourage
businesses (particularly those in
the green business program) to
provide take-bac; especially for
retail store locations that also
have online orders.
3. Summary of Options
• Create a mandatory take-back program for plastic packaging (either producer or retailer
funded/managed).
16. Create a voluntary program.
E. Solar Panels
1. Current Status
City Programs/Policies
• None in place.
San Diego Jurisdictions
None identified in this research stage.
Relevant Recent Legislation
SB 489 (Monning, 2015); Regulations (DTSC, 2020). SB 489 was a bill passed in 2015 that includes the
requirement for the Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) to develop regulations to designate
end-of-life photovoltaic modules that are identified as hazardous waste as a universal waste and subject
those modules to universal waste management. Regulations were finalized and made effective January 1,
2021. The final regulatory text is published and available here.
Inactive:
• SB 1152 (Skinner, 2019-2020). This bill would have required, on and after January 1, 2023, a
manufacturer of a solar panel sold in California to include a permanently affixed label that provides
information necessary to facilitate proper disposal or recycling of the solar panel at the end of its
useful life. The bill would require CalRecycle to develop regulations implementing that labeling
requirement.
• SB 207 (Dahle, 2021). This bill is being considered in the 2021 legislative session, and would require
the Secretary for Environmental Protection to, on or before April 1, 2022, convene the Photovoltaic
Recycling Advisory Group, to review and advise the California State Legislature on policies pertaining
to the recovery and recycling of photovoltaic panels and their components. The advisory group would
be required to submit policy recommendations to the Legislature on or before April 1, 2025, that aim
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to ensure that 100% of photovoltaic panels in the state are reused or recycled at the end of life in a
safe and cost-effective manner.
2. Policy Options Detail
Examples from San Diego County jurisdictions, if any, are emphasized.
Tier # Policy Option Example Description/Notes
Leader 1 Require producers that sell
solar panels in the city to have
end-of-life recycling programs
for their products.
Washington The State of Washington passed
a solar panel stewardship bill
(ESSB 5939), requiring
manufacturers that sell solar
products into the state to have
end-of-life recycling programs
for their products.
2 Require manufacturers of solar
panels sold in the city to
include a label that provides
information about proper
recycling and disposal of the
panel.
State of
California
(2019-2020,
not passed)
See description for SB 1152
above, which would have
required labeling of solar
panels.
Customary
Practice
3 Hold collection events for solar
panels.
Santa
Monica, CA
The City of Santa Monica
partnered with the California
Product Stewardship Council to
create a solar panel collection
program, largely through
collection events.
4 Conduct further research on
solar panel recycling
State of
California
(2021,
proposed)
See description above for SB
207, which would require
further research and
recommendations for solar
panel recycling efforts.
3. Summary of Options
• Require end-of-life recycling program for solar panels (producers and/or installers)
• Require labeling with proper recycling instructions
• Hold collection events
• Conduct further research
F. Tobacco Waste
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1. Current Status
City Programs/Policies
• None in place.
• See Section 2.1 (Material Bans) regarding city restrictions on public smoking areas.
San Diego Jurisdictions
None identified in this research stage.
Relevant Recent Legislation
• SB 8 (Glazer, 2019) Bans smoking at state beaches and parks, but does not include a take-back or
extended producer responsibility component.
Inactive
• SB 424 (Jackson, 2019-2020). This bill did not pass in the 2019-2020 legislative session. It would have
prohibited the sale of single-use tobacco products (single use filters, single-use plastic devices, single-
use electronic cigarettes). This bill would also require the manufacturer of a tobacco product to use
materials eligible for recycling under state or local recycling programs, including electronic waste
recycling programs; or, collect components that are not eligible for recycling through a take-back or
mail-back program.
2. Policy Options Detail
Examples from San Diego County jurisdictions, if any, are emphasized.
Tier # Policy Option Example Description/Notes
Leader 1 Require a Take-Back program
for cigarette butts or other
tobacco waste.
An additional policy
component to include could be
a deposit and return program
where a charge would be
placed on each pack of
cigarettes, which could be
redeemed if the used products
are returned to retailers for
proper collection.
Proposed in
Maine, New
York, and
Vancouver
Maine, New York, and Vancouver
have each proposed, but not yet
passed, similar policies for a
cigarette butt take back program.
The program includes a deposit
per cigarette purchased, which
can be redeemed when
consumers return the cigarette
butts.
2 Place a litter abatement fee on
cigarette and tobacco
products.
San
Francisco, CA
While this was mentioned in the
EPR section of the SMMP, it more
closely aligns with the incentive-
based policies category as it
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places the charge on consumer
behavior and is not a take-back
policy. See Section 2.4 (Incentive-
Based Policies) for an example
from San Francisco, CA.
5 Require electronic smoking
device components to be
reusable and made out of
recyclable material, and
require producers to have a
take-back program
State of
California
(proposed)
SB 424 is currently being
considered in the 2019-2020
legislative session, see
description above.
6 Require producers to include
product labels aimed at
reducing pollution (e.g., stating
that cigarette filters are non-
biodegradable hazardous
waste, and to dispose of in
accordance with state and local
laws).
None
identified
Tobacco products are required by
the FDA to carry certain warning
labels regarding health risks, but
not for environmental impact.
7 Require retailers of cigarettes
or tobacco products to post
educational signs regarding the
environmental effects of
cigarette litter and disposal of
other tobacco products.
None
identified
None identified.
3. Summary of Options
• Create a mandatory take-back program for cigarette butts or single-use plastic smoking devices
(retailer or producer managed/funded) (sub option to include a deposit system)
• Require proper labeling/ education (including on packaging by producers or posted by retailers)
17. Create a voluntary program
G. Additional Materials
Below are examples of additional materials and examples of relevant take-back/PS/EPR legislation or local
ordinances/policies for each material type.
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Materials Example Description/Notes
Automotive
Parts
Ottawa,
Ontario,
Canada
The City of Ottawa’s Take It Back! Program, a voluntary product
stewardship program, enables residents to return household items to
over 800 participating local retailers and charitable organizations for
reuse, recycling, or proper disposal; the program addresses more than
130 products across 5 categories. Automotive parts accepted in the
program include: aluminum wheels; antifreeze; automobiles;
automotive scrap metal; car batteries; car parts; electric motors; empty
motor oil bottles; gasoline; kerosene; motor oil; oil filters; propane
tanks; radiators; tires; transmission filters; and transmission fluid.
Contact
lenses
Santa Cruz
County
(research
stage)
Santa Cruz County included contact lens recycling on its list of potential
take-back ordinances, as presented to the board of supervisors for
informational purposes and sent to residents in a survey. No further
action has yet been taken, but this demonstrates that jurisdictions are
beginning to think about expanding take-back programs for new
material types.
Town of
Truckee
(education)
& outside
programs
Baush + Lomb and TerraCycle created a free program for recycling used
contacts and blister packs. The Town of Truckee posted information on
its website informing residents of this new program, including links to
participate. While not a Take-Back ordinance or Town program,
providing information regarding outside programs is valuable and a
good first step for a variety of material types.
Disposable
Wipes
State of
California
(Proposed)
AB 818 (Bloom, 2021) This bill is being considered in the 2021 legislative
session and would require certain disposable wipes manufactured on or
after July 1, 2022, to be labeled with the phrase “Do Not Flush” and a
related symbol. This bill would require the California Consumer
Education and Outreach program to participate in a study conducted in
collaboration with wastewater agencies to gain understanding on
consumer behavior regarding the flushing of disposable wipes.
E-Waste State of
California
SB 20 (Sher, 2003). SB 20 established the California Electronic Waste
Recycling Act of 2003, which created a statewide recycling program and
funding mechanisms for recycling certain types of electronic waste.
Retailers are required to charge a fee at the point of sale to consumers
purchasing covered devices in order to fund electronic waste recycling.
SB 20 places certain requirements on manufacturers (e.g., consumer
information, brand labeling, annual reporting, product design for
recycling, and reduction of hazardous materials) and retailers are
prohibited from selling devices from noncompliant manufacturers.
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Materials Example Description/Notes
AB 2901 (Pavley, 2004) Cell Phone Takeback and Recycling. AB 2901
requires certain large cell phone retailers to implement cell phone take
back collection programs at no cost to the consumer, and to ensure the
devices are reused, recycled, or properly disposed.
AB 1125 (Pavley, 2005) Rechargeable Battery Takeback and Recycling.
AB 1125 requires all retailers that sell rechargeable batteries to accept
back used rechargeable batteries at no cost to the consumer, and
ensure proper handling and recycling. This bill is modeled closely off the
previous year’s AB 2901.
AB 1419 (Eggman, 2016) CRT Panel Glass Recycling. AB 1419 created a
recycling framework for CRT panel glass.
Ink
Cartridges
New York,
NY
New York City created a voluntary business partnership with vendors to
take back ink and toner cartridges.
Mercury
Products/
Thermostats
State of
California
AB 2347 (Ruskin, 2008). AB 2347 established the Mercury Thermostat
Collection Act of 2008, which requires manufacturers mercury-added
thermostats sold in this state to establish and maintain a collection,
transportation, recycling, and disposal program for out-of-service
mercury-added thermostats, including additional programmatic
requirements like education and reporting. AB 2347 requires
wholesalers with physical locations to act as a take-back collection
location for mercury-added thermostats.
Paint State of
California
AB 1343 – Paint Stewardship (Huffman, 2010). AB 1343 created a
producer-managed post‐consumer paint recovery program. It requires
architectural paint manufacturers to develop and implement a
stewardship plan to reduce the generation of post‐consumer paint,
promote reuse of paint, and manage the end‐of‐life postconsumer paint
in an environmentally sound manner. California’s paint stewardship
program “PaintCare” now has nearly 800 collection sites throughout the
state.18
Personal
Care
Products
Town of
Truckee
(education)
& outside
programs
Various retailers or special programs exist for take-back of personal care
products. The Town of Truckee’s website provides information for 6
different take-back options for cosmetics or other care products. While
not managed through a Town program or policy, this educational
information is helpful. TerraCycle is a well-known take-back program for
personal care products and other hard to recycle items.
18 “PaintCare Drop-Off Sites” PaintCare California. https://www.paintcare.org/paintcare-
states/california/#/everyone
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Section 3.2. – EPR Advocacy
The city’s SMMP identified two recommended actions: consider adopting Take-Back ordinances for
products that are difficult or costly to manage, and advocate for Product Stewardship or EPR. Below is a
list of examples of actions to advocate for EPR, some as listed from the SMMP as well as additional actions.
• Support the California Product Stewardship Council, Product Stewardship Institute and/or other
regional and national product stewardship organizations.
• Advocate for statewide and national packaging and product design policies that encourage items to
be repairable, reusable, fully recyclable/compostable, and less toxic.
• Advocate for and support a regional initiative to encourage businesses to produce sustainable
materials, products, and packaging.
• Consider providing sustainable materials management incentives to local manufacturers, distributors,
and retailers.
• Track state EPR/PS legislation and regulations and submit letters of support during the legislative
session and formal rulemaking processes.
• Update the city’s Green Business Program criteria to encourage take-back programs, PS, and EPR
policies.
• Pass resolutions that affirm the city’s external and/or internal advocacy for EPR.
Example: The City and County of San Francisco has adopted a variety of resolutions that urge the
state to take action on specific material types, as well as more general EPR resolutions. In 2006, San
Francisco published a resolution that supports statewide efforts for extended producer responsibility
(with a focus on toxicity of universal waste and shifting the burden for recycling and disposal of
products to producers and distributors), and stating a commitment for the San Francisco Department
of the Environment to work with other agencies and develop EPR language for inclusion in city
contracts. A second resolution in 2010 urged the state to adopt to and enact an EPR framework.
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Section 4. Incentive-Based Policies
The city’s Sustainable Materials Management Plan (SMMP) includes examples of potential “incentive-
based” policies. These policies intend to encourage shifts in behavior through a variety of mechanisms
such as positive rewards and/or disincentives such as fees. Incentive-based policies mentioned in the
SMMP include charges on disposable cups, tap water availability at restaurants, small home building
incentives, and microfiber education, which are described below along with additional policy options that
have been added or expanded. Note that some of these policies overlap with other policy types and would
likely be combined or evaluated with other ordinances if selected (e.g., reusable food service ware
incentives combined with material ban).
A. Construction and Demolition Debris Deposit
1. Current Status
City Policies/Programs
• No C&D deposit incentive system in place.
• The City of Carlsbad adopted the minimum requirements of the 2019 California Green Building
Standards Code (CALGreen) by reference with the passing of Ordinance CS-364 (Municipal Code
Chapter 18.21). The city also provides an educational C&D recycling guide.
San Diego County Jurisdictions
Examples of other jurisdictions in San Diego County with relevant policies or programs: Chula Vista, San
Diego, and La Mesa.
Relevant Recent Legislation
California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen) (2019). CALGreen regulations require contractors
to recycle and/or salvage for reuse a minimum of 65% of nonhazardous C&D waste for C&D projects and
submit a construction waste management plan; or, contractors shall comply with the requirements of
local C&D ordinances, if more stringent. CALGreen does not require a performance deposit.
2. Policy Options Detail
Examples from San Diego County jurisdictions, if any, are emphasized.
Tier # Policy Option Example Description/Notes
Customary
Practice
1 Require contractors to
submit a deposit prior to a
construction or demolition
project, which is then
returned upon
demonstration of
compliance with the city’s
diversion and/or
San Diego, CA The City of San Diego requires that
applicants for a building permit or a
demolition/removal permit pay a
deposit, which is refunded if the
contractor demonstrates, to the
Director’s satisfaction, that the city’s
diversion requirements (75%) have
been met. The schedule for deposit
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deconstruction
requirements.
The amount of the deposit
could be a uniform
amount, or could be
variable, such as dollar
amount per estimated ton
of waste to be generated or
size of project.
amounts is set and updated by City
Council resolution.
Chula Vista,
CA
The City of Chula Vista requires that
applicants for a building permit or a
demolition/removal permit pay a
deposit, which is refunded if the
contractor demonstrates, to the
director’s satisfaction, that it has met
the diversion requirement of 100%
inert waste and at least 65% of other
waste.
La Mesa, CA The City of La Mesa requires that
applicants for a building permit or a
demolition/removal permit pay a
deposit, which is refunded if the
contractor demonstrates, to the
director’s satisfaction, that it has met
the 75% diversion requirement.
Atherton, CA The Town of Atherton uses a variable
cost model for their deposit system of
$50/ton for all waste required to be
recycled. The contractor is then
refunded up to the extent it has met
the diversion requirements, and the
Town keeps $50 for each ton that fell
short of the diversion goal.
Dublin, CA
City of Dublin requires a performance
security deposit only for projects
valued at $1,000,000 or more.
3. Summary of Options
• Create a deposit system for C&D contractors (sub-options for criteria for deposit, deposit
amount, etc.)
B. Litter Abatement Fees
1. Current Status
City Programs/Policies
• No litter abatement fee in place.
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• The city has standard policies for littering and illegal dumping fines.
San Diego County Jurisdictions
None identified in this research stage.
Relevant Legislation
• Proposition 26 (2010). Proposition 26 imposes additional requirements for voters to approve certain
local levies and charges by two-thirds vote.
2. Policy Options Detail
Examples from San Diego County jurisdictions, if any, are emphasized.
Tier # Policy Option Example Description/Notes
Leader 1 Place a litter abatement fee on
commonly littered products.
(The example provided here is
on cigarette litter, but a variety
of products could be selected
based on the city’s specific litter
issues.)
San Francisco, CA San Francisco established a
fee of $0.85 per pack of
cigarettes sold in the city to
recover clean-up costs of
cigarette litter from city
streets and public areas.
(Note that this policy was
passed prior to Prop 26)
Customary
Practice
2 Prior to passing a litter
abatement fee, conduct an
audit of commonly littered
items in the city, determine
clean-up costs, and evaluate
methods to fund the clean-up of
these products.
San Francisco, CA The City of San Francisco
conducted a litter audit to
identify the materials littered
and determine the amount of
the fee prior to passing their
policy.
3. Summary of Options
• Pass a litter abatement fee on problem products
• Conduct an audit to identify problem items to inform future policies
C. Microplastics and Microfibers
1. Current Status
City Policies/Programs
No policies currently in place.
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San Diego County Jurisdictions
None identified in this research stage.
Existing Relevant Recent Legislation
• SB 1422 (Portantino, 2018). SB 1422 requires the State Water Board to adopt a definition of
microplastics in drinking water on or before July 1, 2020, and on or before July 1, 2021, to adopt a
standard methodology to be used in the testing of drinking water for microplastics and requirements
for four years of testing and reporting of microplastics in drinking water, including public disclosure
of those results.
• AB 888 (Bloom, 2015). AB 888 prohibits, on and after January 1, 2020, the sale or promotional
giveaway of personal care products containing plastic microbeads.
• H.R. 1321 (2015). The Microbeads Free Waters Act is a federal law that, following the lead of
California’s AB 888, prohibits the manufacturing, packaging, and distribution of rinse-off cosmetics
and non-prescription drugs containing plastic microbeads.
• AB 818 (Bloom, 2021) This bill requires certain premoistened nonwoven disposable wipes
manufactured on or after July 1, 2022 to be labeled with the phrase “Do Not Flush” and a related
symbol. This bill establishes, until January 1, 2027, the California Consumer Education and Outreach
program, under which manufacturers are required to participate in a study conducted in collaboration
with wastewater agencies to gain understanding on consumer behavior regarding the flushing of
wipes, and conduct a comprehensive education program, with associated reporting requirements.
Inactive
• AB 1952 (Stone, 2020). AB 1952 would require the state to implement a pilot program for one year
to assess the efficacy of microfiber filtration systems in removing microfiber from waste wash-water
from state-owned laundry facilities, and submit a report on the results by January 1, 2023.
• AB 2379 (Bloom, 2018). AB 2379 would have required that new clothing made from at least 50%
synthetic material be labeled with a statement that the garment sheds microfibers when washed and
for additional information to be included on the garment care label. Retailers would be prohibited
from selling clothes that did not meet these requirements.
• AB 129 (Bloom, 2019). AB 129 would have required, on or before January 1, 2020, a public entity that
uses a laundry system or private entity that contracts with a state agency for laundry services to install
a filtration system to capture microfibers shed during washing
• AB 622 (Friedman, 2021) This bill is being considered in the 2021 legislative session and would require
that all washing machines sold in the state contain a microfiber filtration system with a mesh size of
100 microns or smaller on or before January 1, 2024.
• AB 802 (Bloom, 2021) This bill is being considered in the 2021 legislative session and would require
the State Water Resources Control Board to identify the best available control technology for filtering
microfibers from a laundry facility. The board would be required to consult with owners and operators
of laundry facilities on the types of filtration systems currently in use. The bill would also require
entities that operates an industrial, institutional, or commercial laundry facility to adopt the use of
the best available control technology to capture microfibers that are shed during washing.
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2. Policy Options Detail
Examples from San Diego County jurisdictions, if any, are emphasized.
Tier # Policy Option Example Description/Notes
Leader 1 Require clothing made from fabric
that is composed of more than
50% synthetic materials be
labeled that the garment sheds
plastic microfibers when washed
and include additional
information on the garment care
label regarding proper washing
and care.
State of
California
(2018, not
enacted)
Assembly Bill 2379 would have
required that new clothing made
from at least 50% synthetic
material be labeled with a
statement that the garment sheds
microfibers when washed and for
additional information to be
included on the garment care
label. Retailers would be
prohibited from selling clothes
that did not meet these
requirements.
2 Require that any city department
or activity that uses a laundry
facility or private entity that
contracts with the city for laundry
services to install filters on
washing machines that capture
microfibers shed during washing.
State of
California
(2019; not
enacted)
Assembly Bill 129 would have
required, on or before January 1,
2020, a public entity that uses a
laundry system or private entity
that contracts with a state agency
for laundry services to install a
filtration system to capture
microfibers shed during washing.
Similar bills are currently being
considered in the legislative
session.
State of
California
(2021,
pending)
AB 802 (Bloom, 2021) This bill is
being considered in the 2021
legislative session and would
require the State Water
Resources Control Board to
identify the best available control
technology for filtering
microfibers from a laundry
facility. The board would be
required to consult with owners
and operators of laundry facilities
on the types of filtration systems
currently in use. The bill would
also require entities that operates
an industrial, institutional, or
commercial laundry facility to
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adopt the use of the best available
control technology to capture
microfibers that are shed during
washing.
Parry
Sound,
Ontario
Parry Sound, Ontario conducted a
pilot study of placing special
filters on washing machines to
capture microfibers.
3 Require laundry machines sold to
have a microfiber filter
State of
California
(2021,
pending)
• AB 622 (Friedman, 2021). This
bill is being considered in the
2021 legislative session and
would require that all
washing machines sold in the
state contain a microfiber
filtration system with a mesh
size of 100 microns or smaller
on or before January 1, 2024.
4 Require retailers to impose a
charge on synthetic textiles.
None Identified as an idea within the
SMMP, however no specific
jurisdiction examples were
identified in this research stage.
5 Require clothing retailers that sell
synthetic clothing to provide
educational material that
encourages customers to
purchase natural fabrics, informs
customers of the harmful effects
of microplastics from synthetic
clothing, and explains
recommended care and washing
guidelines to reduce microfiber
shedding.
None Similar to the concept of
California’s AB 2379 (see #1), an
alternative option could be to
require retailers to post
educational signs (but not restrict
the manufacturers or require
labeling of a garment itself). No
specific examples were identified
in this research stage.
Customary
Practice
6 Conduct research to monitor
public opinion on microplastics
and microfiber to inform potential
policy solutions.
Santa Cruz
County, CA
Santa Cruz County created a
survey for the public with
questions about potential policy
actions the county could take,
including whether or not the
county should require filtration
systems on commercial laundry
machines.
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3. Summary of Options
• Require retailers to charge a fee on synthetic materials
• Require labeling of synthetic fabric
• Require laundry filtration systems (city-owned facilities with laundry service, laundromats, retail
sale, etc.)
• Require retailers to provide education information
• Conduct research and/or implement a city education campaign
D. Reusable Food Service Ware Incentives
1. Current Status
City Programs/Policies
The city has encouraged use of reusable materials in some educational materials, but no formal policies
or programs have been implemented.
San Diego County Jurisdictions
• Cities such as Solana Beach and San Diego have taken some preliminary actions, but Carlsbad would
be the first in the county to implement a financial fee/incentive as part of the material ban.
• See Section 2.1 for information on the multiple San Diego jurisdictions with related bans on disposable
food service ware.
Relevant Recent Legislation
AB 619 (Chiu, 2019). AB 619 permits customers to bring reusable containers to food service
establishments, under certain conditions, and specifies procedures for food service establishments in
7 Research and create an education
and outreach campaign and/or
adopt a referral to ask the
relevant City Council Committee
to conduct further research.
Berkeley,
CA
The City of Berkeley’s first step
toward addressing this issue was
adopting a referral to ask the
relevant Council Committee
(Community Environmental
Advisory Commission) to conduct
research and assess the city’s
capacity to participate in an
educational outreach program to
inform city Residents of the
harmful nature of plastic
microfibers.
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handling the containers. The bill also authorizes temporary food facilities to use clean and sanitized
reusable utensils for customers (previously only single-use service ware was allowed).
Proposed
AB 962 (Kamlager, 2021) This bill makes adjustments to The California Beverage Container Recycling and
Litter Reduction Act (“Bottle Bill”) to encourage the practice of washing and reusing beverage containers.
This bill authorizes a CalRecycle-approved processor to wash reusable (glass) beverage containers or
transfer a (glass) reusable beverage container for subsequent washing to a processor approved by
CalRecycle, to be refilled and sold by a beverage manufacturer.
2. Policy Options Detail
Examples from San Diego County jurisdictions, if any, are emphasized.
Tier # Policy Option Example Description/Notes
Leader 1 Place charge on disposable
cups or other disposable
service ware.
Berkeley, CA The City of Berkeley requires a $0.25
charge on all disposable cups
provided (and cups must be
compostable pursuant to their
disposable food service ware
ordinance; See Section 2.1).
Customary
Practice
2 Permit food service
providers to charge a “take-
out fee” (generally in
conjunction with a food
service ware ban).
Watsonville, CA The City of Watsonville permits food
service providers to charge a $0.10
fee for take-out food service, and
their ordinance specifically states
that they are encouraged to do so.
Many ordinances allow a take-out
fee to offset costs, but the
additional encouragement to
charge this fee demonstrates that
the fee serves the additional
purpose of shifting consumer
behavior.
Richmond, CA The City of Richmond permits food
service providers to charge a “take-
out” fee” as part of its disposable
food service ware ban. Unlike
Watsonville, Richmond does not set
the fee amount, but rather states
that the fee is intended to cover the
cost difference for providing
alternative take-out service ware.
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Tier # Policy Option Example Description/Notes
Minimum
Action
4 Include provisions within the
ordinance that specifically
allow and encourage use of
reusable cups or other
service ware.
Solana Beach,
CA
The City of Solana Beach’s
disposable food ware ordinance
includes a provision that specifically
clarifies that customers are
permitted to bring their own
reusable cups to food service
establishments, and encourages
event producers that provide
beverages to make reusable cups
available and/or make a strong
effort to encourage attendees to
bring reusable cups to the event.
5 Encourage businesses in the
city to voluntarily provide a
discount to those who bring
their own reusable cups or
other reusable food service
ware.
Various
businesses
Some coffee shops offer discounts
to customers that bring their own
personal cup (e.g., Peet’s Coffee and
Starbucks offer a $0.10 discount for
reusable cups). The city’s recycling
guide specifically mentions that
“most coffee shops will give you a
discount for using your own mug,”
and the city could take a more
active role in making this happen
through a city-wide voluntary
program (particularly for businesses
in the city’s green business
program, as applicable).
6 Start a city initiative or
education campaign that
encourages bringing
reusable service ware, which
may include give-away of
reusable items attached with
education campaigns, in
order to incentivize use of
reusable items and address
concerns over initial cost to
purchase reusable items.
City of Long
Beach (2018)
The City of Long Beach created a
campaign called #BYOLBC (Bring
Your Own -Long Beach City). Their
2018 progress report reported that
they attended over 20 events over
the summer of 2018 with campaign
booths, and also conducted other
outreach via mail, social media,
newsletters, and billboards. They
had give-away contests for reusable
items (both in-person and on social
media). Residents could participate
in a variety of ways to receive the
prizes: take a pledge to reuse,
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Tier # Policy Option Example Description/Notes
participate in a monthly drawing,
and post pictures or comment on
social media with the campaign
hashtag. Some items included:
straws, utensil kits, collapsible
bowls, cups, and tote bags/ produce
bags.
San Diego, CA The City of San Diego launched a
“Bring Your Own Bag San Diego”
campaign, with specifically branded
tote bags and other educational
materials. A similar campaign could
be conducted for reusable food
service ware incentives.
3. Summary of Options
• Place a small charge on disposable cups or other service ware provided
• Allow and encourage, but not require, businesses to charge a take-out fee
• Permit and encourage use of reusable service ware
• Implement a voluntary discount program/ encouragement for business
• Create an education campaign
E. Small Homes Building Incentives
1. Current Status
City Policies/Programs
No policy currently in place.
San Diego County Jurisdictions
Examples of other jurisdictions in San Diego County with relevant policies or programs: City of San Diego.
2. Policy Options Detail
Examples from San Diego County jurisdictions, if any, are emphasized.
Tier # Policy Option Example Description/Notes
Leader 1 Portland, OR The City of Portland, Oregon has
an incentive program to promote
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Tier # Policy Option Example Description/Notes
Implement a policy that
incentivizes residents to build
smaller homes.
building houses of 500 sq. ft. or
smaller, including waiving
development fees that are
typically required (Which can be
up to $15,000). Property owners
may not use units as short-term
rentals.
Clovis, CA The City of Clovis launched an
incentive program to encourage
builders and homeowners to
build compact "cottages" in the
city's downtown - which has now
expanded city-wide. The city
provides an on-site assessment,
permits, and free building plans (3
options to choose from). The city
added Self-Help Enterprises to
help provide financing to eligible
property owners.
Customary
Practice
2 Update the municipal code to
remove any provisions that
inhibit tiny home development
and specifically permit tiny
homes as accessory dwelling
units.
San Diego, CA The City of San Diego modified its
previous Accessory Dwelling Unit
Ordinance to specifically permit
moveable tiny houses. The city’s
goals included providing more
affordable housing options, and
noted that these tiny homes
“make particular sense in coastal
California due to the habitable
climate and need for creative
housing solutions.”19
3 Prior to considering an
incentive program, call a
meeting of relevant city
departments to further
evaluate such a program in the
city. Determine how this may
be an interdepartmental
project that addresses
Multiple
Jurisdictions
Many jurisdictions pursue “tiny
home” development as an
approach to respond to issues
such as homelessness and the
need for affordable housing. For
many jurisdictions, this is an
interdepartmental effort that
extends beyond the range of
19 Tetlow, Barret and Black, Laura “REPORT NO. PC-20-017 – Report to City of San Diego Planning
Commission,” March 26, 2020.
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Tier # Policy Option Example Description/Notes
homelessness and the need for
affordable housing, in addition
to environmental benefits.
Examples of city departments
that would need to collaborate
consider this plan include, but
are not limited to: Building,
Planning, Development
Services, Environmental,
Homeless Outreach, Housing,
and Public Works. Local
community organizations and
other stakeholders working on
these issues should be
consulted as well.
sustainable materials
management. Engaging public
health, housing and other
relevant city departments/
Council committees is an
important step.
3. Summary of Options
• Implement small home incentive program.
• Evaluate and update the City Code to remove barriers and allow mobile tiny homes.
• Evaluate possibility of a small home incentive program in an interdepartmental effort.
F. Tap Water Incentive
1. Current Status
City Policies/Programs
• No policy currently in place.
• The city’s SMMP posed the idea of a potential policy of requiring food service establishments to make
tap water accessible to their customers to encourage a behavioral shift away from bottled water. This
is an example of an incentive-based policy, but could also be implemented in conjunction with a ban
on plastic beverage bottles (Section 2.1) to ensure alternative access to water.
San Diego County Jurisdictions
• None identified in this research stage.
• Solana Beach’s restrictions on bottled water will inevitably shift behavior toward tap water, but this
is categorized as a material ban rather than an incentive-based policy for this report (See Section 2.1
– Material Bans).
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Relevant Recent Legislation
The California Building Code (Part V, 2016) requires developers to provide public water stations in new
buildings. The California Building Code, as updated in 2016, states that drinking fountains “should also
incorporate a bottle filling stations and can incorporate a water filter and a cooling system for chilling the
drinking water.”
2. Policy Options Detail
Examples from San Diego County jurisdictions, if any, are emphasized.
Tier # Policy Option Example Description/Notes
Leader 1 Require food service
establishments to make tap water
accessible to customers.
This may take the form of providing
water in glasses upon request at
full-service restaurants, or
providing a self-service water
station or pitcher and cups to
customers.
If passing this policy, consider
including specifications around the
types of cups/vessels that may be
used for those water stations (e.g.,
reusable, compostable, or
recyclable) in order to align with
sustainability goals. (See Section
2.1 for Material Bans)
Spain (Balearic
Islands and
Navarra)
Some areas in Spain require
bars and restaurants to offer
free tap water alongside the
regular bottled varieties
anywhere where the water
supplier can guarantee the
quality of the tap water for
human consumption.
In the United States, many
restaurants voluntarily serve
tap water, but there are
limited examples of
mandatory models.
2 Require water bottle refill stations
to be installed in buildings (both
city-owned and private building
projects)
San Francisco,
CA
The City of San Francisco
passed an ordinance (after
their ban on bottled water)
that requires new buildings
that have drinking fountains
to install water bottle refill
stations. While this policy is
not a “material ban” on its
own, it supports the success
of the material ban by
providing access to
alternative water sources
other than single-use bottles.
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Tier # Policy Option Example Description/Notes
In addition to refill stations in
buildings, San Francisco
installs outdoor bottle refill
stations throughout the city
to encourage use of reusable
bottles, and developed an
interactive map of where
water stations are located.
Minimum
Action
3 Encourage businesses to
voluntarily provide tap water
available rather than bottled
water. Offer recognition to
businesses that enact this practice.
Surfrider
Foundation
Surfrider Foundation, a non-
profit with a San Diego
County chapter, has done a
number of campaigns to
encourage tap water
consumption such as pledges
to “take back the tap” and
“rise above plastics.”
Carlsbad could enact similar
programs, and incorporate
criteria into its green business
program.
3. Summary of Options
• Require food service establishments to make tap water available
• Require installation of bottle refill stations
• Require water refill stations at public events
• Encourage businesses to voluntarily provide tap water
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LOCAL BUSINESS SURVEY / FEEDBACK FORM
Potential Sustainable Materials Management Policies
The City of Carlsbad adopted a Sustainable Materials Management Plan (SMMP) in 2019 to address one
of the city’s most important core values: sustainability. Part of the SMMP will be to implement policies
which can help the city use and reuse materials more productively in order to minimize waste, conserve
natural resources, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The city recognizes that local businesses play an
important role in the community and values their feedback. Please take a few minutes to share your
thoughts on sustainable materials management policies the city is considering for adoption. All responses
will remain completely confidential and help guide the city in the implementation of the SMMP.
For more information on the city’s Sustainable Materials Management practices, please visit our website
here.
Current Practices
1. What type of business are you? Select all that apply.
a. Local Small Business (located in Carlsbad, under 50 employees)
b. Local Large Business (located in Carlsbad, 50 or more employees)
c. Contractor or Developer
d. Restaurant
e. Grocery Store
f. Food Truck
g. Event company
h. Retail Store/Convenient Store
i. Other food vendor (farmers market, caterer, etc.)
2. Which of the following single-use plastic items does your business currently offer to customers?
Mark an “X” in each box of the table below that applies, whether for indoor dining or to-go service.
Provided by default Provided for free upon
request
Provided for a Fee
Straws
Cutlery
Cups
Food Takeout
Containers (clamshell
containers or to-go
boxes)
Bags
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3. Which of the following compostable (labeled “compostable” or “BPI Certified”) or reusable items
does your business currently offer to customers?
Select all that apply, whether for indoor dining or to-go service.
a. Straws
b. Cutlery
c. Cups
d. Food Takeout Containers (clamshell containers or to-go boxes)
e. Bags
f. None
g. Not sure
4. Which of the following resources would be useful to you in implementing a transition to reusable
and/or compostable straws, cutlery, cups, food takeout containers, and/or bags?
Select all that apply.
Grant program
a. On-site assistance from reusables specialist
b. Phone assistance from reusables specialist
c. Online guide, videos, and other digital resources
d. Online directory of vendors for acceptable products
e. Rebate or incentive programs
f. Other (please explain) __________________________________________________________
g. I have already fully transitioned to reusable and/or compostable
Material Bans: Single-Use Plastics
Material bans are policies put in place that restrict the sale and use of specific types of materials. These
bans generally apply to materials that are a particular nuisance to communities because they are difficult
to recycle, often end up as litter or marine debris, and/or pose health risks to people or animals. Material
bans are often accompanied by a list of acceptable alternatives to use.
5. For which of the following reasons would you consider supporting a single-use plastic food service
ware, water bottle, and/or material ban?
Select all that apply.
a. To protect the natural environment including animals
b. To keep city streets and parks clean
c. To protect human health
d. To reduce greenhouse gasses
e. To save on purchasing or disposal costs for my business
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f. To appeal to my customers
g. To attract more tourists to Carlsbad and increase my business’s customer base.
h. I do not support material bans
i. Other (please explain) __________________________________________________________
6. What challenges might your business face in implementing a phase-out of single-use plastic food
service ware?
Select all that apply. Note: The City of Carlsbad is currently covered under state legislation that requires
straws only be provided upon request for dine-in customers (take-out orders are exempt).
a. Increased costs of alternatives such as compostable or other ecofriendly alternatives
b. High start-up costs for reusables
c. Lack of dishwashing capacity (washers or staff)
d. Lack of storage space
e. Finding comparable alternative products
f. Customer dissatisfaction
g. Other (please explain) __________________________________________________________
h. None / I have already fully transitioned away from single-use plastic food service ware
7. What challenges might your business face in implementing a phase-out of single-use plastic water
bottles? Select all that apply.
Note: The city is currently considering a ban on single-use plastic bottles that only applies to city facilities
and events, but still requests your feedback on this topic.
a. Increased costs of alternatives
b. High start-up costs
c. Lack of storage space
d. Finding comparable alternative products
e. Customer dissatisfaction
f. Other (please explain) __________________________________________________________
i. None / I have already fully phased-out single-use plastic water bottles
8. What challenges might your business face in implementing a phase-out of single-use plastic bags?
Select all that apply.
Note: The City of Carlsbad already complies with the statewide ban on single-use carryout bags, which
prohibits grocery stores from distributing plastic carryout bags. Stores may provide a reusable grocery bag
or recycled paper bag for a charge of at least 10 cents. Stores may also provide discounts to customers
utilizing their own reusable bags.
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a. Increased costs of alternatives
b. High start-up costs
c. Lack of storage space
d. Finding comparable alternative products
e. Customer dissatisfaction
f. Other (please explain) __________________________________________________________
g. None/ I have already fully phased-out single-use plastic bags
9. How might your business benefit from a single-use plastic bottles, bags, or food service ware ban?
Select all that apply.
a. Increased tourism to Carlsbad resulting in more customers
b. Reduced quantity of single-use items purchased
c. Improved brand image / public perception of business
d. Lower disposal costs
e. Increased marketing opportunities
f. None
g. Other (please explain)__________________________________________________________
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 231 of 255
APPENDIX F.
INITIATIVE D Outreach, Education, and Technical Assistance
Program Menu
December 2, 2021 Page F-1 HF&H Consultants, LLC
A. Program Menu Glossary
The following subsections include explanations of terminology used in the table of this appendix. The
table offers a “program menu” overview of the outreach, education, and technical assistance programs
the city may implement, based on the availability of additional resources.
Activity
Note that this is not an exhaustive list of activities for each program initiative, but a sample of the major
activities.
• Bill inserts: Including a flier or poster in a municipal electric, water, and/or refuse bill to inform
residents of programs, mandates, or upcoming events.
• Business outreach: City staff or designated third-parties target specific stores through phone
calls, emails or in-store visits to develop relationships, invite them to participate in initiatives or
programs.
• Campaign: A campaign is a large-scale effort to advertise or implement an event or program. It
includes a number of planning elements to market city events or activities.
• Collaborative campaign: Program or campaign put on in conjunction with or assisted by other
city departments or external groups.
• Digital campaign: Digital campaigns can include a number of internet-based activities such as:
mass emails, city posted social-media posts, social media advertisements, local digital
newspaper ads, webpages on the city website, updates to the city calendar, or videos.
• Digital communication: A digital communication is a one-time email or social media post, or a
static web-page on the city's website
• Event: An event is a city-sponsored program that occurs over one day or as a series of one day
programs that is intended for the general public to participate. "Events" include organizing the
location, date/time, staffing, and marketing. Events may also include coordination of partners,
speakers, food and refreshments, and other logistical needs such as waste pick up, noise permits
etc.
• Financial assistance or incentive: Includes rebates, vouchers or discounted products to
residents offered by the city to incentivize purchase or participation in specific initiatives.
• Infrastructure investment: City invests in equipment, software etc. to enable a program or
initiative.
• Interactive tool: An interactive tool is a web based and hosted on the city's website. It is more
than a static webpage and includes clickable components that a visitor can use to engage with
the content
• Internal program: Digital or printed campaigns, materials, or events whose intended audience is
city employees.
• Internal research: The city conducts a study or pilot program to help determine the best course
of action to implement or advertise a program or campaign. The intention is to inform the city's
operations.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 232 of 255
APPENDIX F.
INITIATIVE D Outreach, Education, and Technical Assistance
Program Menu
December 2, 2021 Page F-2 HF&H Consultants, LLC
• Mailers: Mailers include monthly, quarterly or annual letters sent to specific sectors/generators
to inform them of a program or mandate.
• Multi-media campaign: A campaign that utilizes both print and digital communications to
market events, workshops or programs. Multi-media campaigns may also include local radio and
news spots or advertisements.
• Nudges: Nudges encourage behavior change by encouraging decisions to be the more desired
sustainable outcome. Includes default settings or 'soft' reminders for a desired behavior.
• Print campaign: A print campaign focuses on physical mailers, bill insets posters, tags, door-
hangers, bus stop advertisements, print newspaper ads, or banners that are used to
communicate a program or event
• Print communication: Mailers sent to applicable sectors, fliers in publicly facing city facilities
such as libraries, community centers or offices
• Table/Booth: City hosted table at an event.
• Workshops: Held for specific sectors or groups, often pre-registration is required and for smaller
groups. "Workshops" include organizing the location, date/time, staffing (including speakers),
and agenda in addition to tracking registration and advertising to targeted sectors. Workshops
can be done as stand alone or in a series. Includes meetings.
Term
• Short term: 6 months - 2 years
• Medium term: 2 years - 4 years
• Long term: 5+ years
Level
• Minimum Action: minimum compliance as defined by applicable state laws or local ordinances;
least resource intense
• Customary Practice: industry standard, commonplace programs; moderately resource intense
• Leader: “all stars”; exceptional examples and integrated programs; highly resource intense, at
least initially
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 233 of 255
APPENDIX F.
INITIATIVE D Outreach, Education, and Technical Assistance
Program Menu
December 2, 2021 Page F-3 HF&H Consultants, LLC
B. Program Menu
Program
Area
Program
Element Activity Term Targeted
Audience
Responsible
Party Level
SMM Goal 1: Ensure compliance with all state solid waste regulations currently in effect. Business Technical Assistance Phone
Assessments
Phone
communication;
multimedia
campaign
Short
Term
All
Commercial
&
Multifamily
City Third
Party Vendor
or Hauler
Customary
Practice
On-Site
Assessments
Outreach ;
multimedia
campaign
Short
Term
All
Commercial
&
Multifamily
City Third
Party Vendor
or Hauler
Leader Multiuse Programs Recycling
Hotline
Phone
Communication
Short
Term
All
Commercial
& Residential
City Hauler /
Processor
Minimum
Action
Annual
Mailers/Bill
Inserts
Print
Communication
Mid
Term
All
Commercial
& Residential
City Hauler Minimum
Action
"How do I
recycle this?"
Search Engine
Digital
Campaign
Short
Term
All
Commercial
& Residential
City Hauler /
Processor /
Local
Businesses /
Donation
Centers
Customary
Practice
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 234 of 255
APPENDIX F.
INITIATIVE D Outreach, Education, and Technical Assistance
Program Menu
December 2, 2021 Page F-4 HF&H Consultants, LLC
Program
Area
Program
Element Activity Term Targeted
Audience
Responsible
Party Level Source Separation Annual
Mailers -
AB341 &
AB1826
regulated
generators
Print
Communication
Mid
Term
All
Residential &
Commercial
City Hauler Minimum
Action
Business
Assessments
(on-site)
Outreach ;
multimedia
campaign
Short
Term
All
Commercial
City Third
Party Vendor
or Hauler
Leader
Multifamily
Assessments
(on-site)
Outreach ;
multimedia
campaign
Short
Term Multifamily
City Third
Party Vendor
or Hauler
Leader
Ambassador
Program
("Recycling
Champion")
Workshop Mid
Term
All
Residential City Leader Hard to Handle Materials Annual
Mailers - SB
212
Print
Communication
Short
Term
All
Residential &
Commercial
City Hauler Minimum
Action
Annual
Mailers/Bill
Inserts - Drop
Off Locations
Print
Communication
Short
Term
All
Residential &
Commercial
City Hauler Minimum
Action
Recycling
Hotline
Phone
Communication
Short
Term
All
Residential City Hauler Minimum
Action
Drop Off Map Print or Digital
Communication
Short
Term
All
Residential City Minimum
Action
Red/Green
Tag Program
("Contaminati
on")
Print
Communication
Mid
Term
All
Residential City Hauler Minimum
Action
SMM Goal 2: Achieve regulatory compliance with all SB 1383 regulations. Food Recovery Promote
"Save the
Food"
Multimedia
campaign
Short
Term
All
Residential City
Minimum
Action
Food
Recovery and
Food Safety
Guides
Print and digital
communication
Short
Term
Commercial
Food
Generators City
Minimum
Action
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 235 of 255
APPENDIX F.
INITIATIVE D Outreach, Education, and Technical Assistance
Program Menu
December 2, 2021 Page F-5 HF&H Consultants, LLC
Program
Area
Program
Element Activity Term Targeted
Audience
Responsible
Party Level
Food Rescue
Webpage
(Commercial)
Digital
communication
Short
Term
Commercial
Food
Generators City
Minimum
Action
Food Rescue
Webpage
(Residential)
Digital
Communication
Long
Term
All
Residential City
Minimum
Action
Food
Recovery
Video Series
(City Made)
Digital
communication;
digital campaign
Short
Term
All
Residential City
Customary
Practice Sustainable Purchasing Mandated
Sustainable
Purchasing
Guide for the
City
Internal
Program
Short
Term
Internal -
City City Minimum
Action
Internal
Purchasing
Policy
Communicati
on
Internal
Program; email
communication
Short
Term
Internal -
City City Minimum
Action
Annual
Presentation
or Meetings
Workshop Mid
Term
Internal -
City City Minimum
Action
Publicly
Available
Sustainable
Purchasing
Guide
Digital
campaign;
interactive tool
Short
Term
All
Residential &
All
Commercial
City Leader
City Employee
Training
Internal email
or print
communication
Short
Term
Internal -
City City Customary
Practice
Community
Campaigns
Workshop ;
multimedia
campaign
Mid
Term
All
Residential
City Hauler /
Community
Partners /
Community
Members
Customary
Practice
Rebate and
Voucher
Program
Financial
assistance or
incentive
Long
Term
All
Residential City Customary
Practice
SMM Goal 3: Establish sustainable materials management systems throughout Carlsbad.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 236 of 255
APPENDIX F.
INITIATIVE D Outreach, Education, and Technical Assistance
Program Menu
December 2, 2021 Page F-6 HF&H Consultants, LLC
Program
Area
Program
Element Activity Term Targeted
Audience
Responsible
Party Level Reuse Basic
Information
Campaign Digital
Communication
Short
Term
All
Residential &
All
Commercial City Hauler
Minimum
Action
Reuse
Calendar
Digital
Communication
Mid
Term
All
Residential &
All
Commercial
City Minimum
Action
Repair Café /
Fixit Clinic
Resource
Promotional
Assistance
Digital or Print
Communication
Long
Term
All
Residential
City;
Community
Partners
Minimum
Action
Reusable Cup
Campaign
Business
outreach ;
multimedia
campaign
Mid
Term
All
Residential &
All
Commercial
City Customary
Practice
Reusable
Products
Distribution
Table / Booth Mid
Term
All
Residential City Customary
Practice
Fixit Clinic
(City Hosted)
Event;
Workshop
Mid
Term
All
Residential
City;
Community
Members
Customary
Practice
Art
Show/Contest
Event ;
Multimedia
campaign
Mid
Term
All
Residential,
All
Commercial -
Educational
Institutions
City Leader
Refill / Reuse
App
Digital
Campaign
Long
Term
All
Residential
City Third
Party Vendor Leader
Hydration
Station
Rebate
Program
Financial
assistance or
incentive
Long
Term
Commercial
Offices;
Educational
Institutions;
Internal -
City
City Customary
Practice
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 237 of 255
A. OVERVIEW
A key aspect of the City of Carlsbad’s (City) Sustainable Materials Management Implementation Plan (SMMIP) is an initiative to recommend policy
options, for City Council approval, to align with the city’s core values of sustainability. These recommendations were based on extensive research
and impact analysis, and were ultimately identified as priority policies or policies for future consideration. City staff presented the priority policy
recommendations to City Council on September 21, 2021. City Council approved a motion directing city staff to return with a timeline for
developing and implementing the following ordinances: single-use plastic and expanded polystyrene foodware upon-request ordinance and
material ban throughout the city, plastic beverage bottle ban for city facilities and city-affiliated events, balloon release ban throughout the city,
and plastic bag ban throughout the city. Each of these proposed policies affects different regulated entities and has nuances that will impact the
implementation approach. This Policy Implementation Road Map (Road Map) summarizes those details and outlines stages of ordinance planning,
development, implementation, education and outreach, technical assistance, and on-going management for each of these proposed policies.
In order to help businesses, residents, and city departments with successful implementation, the city is proposing a phased implementation
approach. Figure 1 shows a high-level overview of these stages, and Section B provides a more detailed road map for each proposed policy.
The Sustainable Materials Management (SMM) staff will need to coordinate with other City departments to successfully implement these
proposed policies. For example, SMM staff will engage with the Communications Department for developing the outreach and education plan and
other SMMIP education initiatives described in Phase 3, Initiative D of the SMMIP. Examples of activities in the outreach and education plan may
include: updating the city’s website, developing stakeholder workshops, and distributing education materials and signage. Staff will also coordinate
with the Department for Innovation and Economic Development for conducting stakeholder feedback and technical assistance for businesses.
To ensure successful implementation and monitor progress, the City will conduct on-going stakeholder engagement, such as engaging with the
chamber of commerce. Extensive education, outreach, and technical assistance is the top priority strategy for assuring compliance. After the
phased-in education stage ends, the city may enforce the ordinance as a compliance mechanism in tandem with public education and outreach.
The city will need staffing resources for developing compliance protocols, conducting inspections, and enforcing the ordinance.
Proceeding with the proposed Road Map is dependent upon the allocation of the resource requirements estimated in the cost analysis
described in Initiative C, Figure 5 of this SMMIP. If City Council determines that the proposed resource allocation shall be reduced, this Road
Map must be amended and reviewed by City Council at a later date.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 238 of 255
Figure 1. Road Map Overview
Road Map Overview
•Education and stakeholder outreach •Education, outreach, and technical assistance
•Inspection Program
•Enforcement
•Waiver administration (as needed)
•Monitor progress and feedback
•Education, outreach and technical assistance
•Inspection Program
•Enforcement
•Waiver administration (as needed)
•Monitor progress and feedback
•Education, outreach and technical assistance
•Inspection Program
•Enforcement
•Waiver administration (as needed)
•Monitor progress and feedback
2021
•Policy planning
•City Council feedback
2022
•Ordinance adoption
•Outreach and implementation
•Ordinance drafting
•Gather public comment
•Single-Use Foodware
Enforcement Stage 1: Utensils/ straws only upon request (June)
July 1, 2023
•Single-Use Foodware Enforcement
Stage 2: (1) Reusable or (2) certified compostable and marine degradable materials
•Bag Ban Enforcement Stage 1: Retail only
•City facilities/events policies:
•Balloon Release Ban Enforceable
•Plastic Beverage Bottle Ban
Enforceable
2024
•Bag Ban Enforcement Stage 2: Retail and restaurants (July)
On-Going Activities
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 239 of 255
B. DETAILED ROAD MAP
1. Single-Use Foodware Ordinance
Overview
A key aspect of the SMMIP Policy Initiative is targeting problematic materials through material bans. Single-use plastics and polystyrene (often
called “Styrofoam”) are commonly identified problem materials. The SMMIP recommends a ban on single-use plastic food service ware and
polystyrene, as well as requiring accessory foodware (e.g., straws and utensils) to be given only upon request. See Phase 3, Initiative C of the
SMMIP for further background and description of the Single-Use Plastic Foodware Ordinance. In order to support businesses and the city with
successful implementation, this Road Map recommends a phased approach, as follows:
• Stage 1: “Skip the stuff” (accessory foodware provided only upon request)
• Stage 2: Material ban (polystyrene and single-use plastic foodware prohibited; only compostable or reusable foodware permitted)
It is recommended that the city focus its efforts on the Single-Use Plastic Foodware Ordinance prior to implementing the other proposed policies.
This recommendation is driven by the SMMIP priorities, as well as deadlines recently established under State law, AB 1276 (2021). AB 1276
requires certain food facilities to provide certain accessory foodware items only upon request. Note that AB 1276 does not preclude jurisdictions
from passing their own local ordinances to further regulate distribution of single-use plastic foodware. AB 1276 shall be enforced at the local level
and the deadline for jurisdictions to designate an enforcement officer is June 1, 2022. As such, it is recommended that the implementation of
Stage 1 (accessory foodware upon request) of the city’s local ordinance be effective no later than June 1, 2022. Aligning these two timelines will
reduce confusion for businesses, as well as clarify enforcement and administration practices for the city. The draft ordinance will include provisions
that address the relationship of the ordinance to AB 1276. The full material ban in Stage 2 requires more investment by businesses, and therefore
an additional 12-months of education and implementation is recommended prior to enforcement. Stage 2 is proposed to commence on July 1,
2023 to align with the city’s fiscal year.
Another timeline factor is the “California Plastic Waste Reductions Regulations Initiative” on the November 2022 ballot. This ballot initiative would
establish extended producer responsibility for single-use plastics and polystyrene, ban food vendors from using polystyrene foodware, among
other requirements. The initiative requires CalRecycle to develop regulations to implement these requirements. As learned through other
CalRecycle regulatory processes, such as SB 1383, staying ahead of the planning and implementation curve is critical. Businesses and the city will
be primed for these potential regulatory changes, if passed, through early education and implementation of this local ordinance.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 240 of 255
Figure 2 below shows an overview of the proposed timeline for the proposed Single-Use Plastic Foodware Ordinance.
Figure 2. Proposed Single-Use Plastic Foodware Ordinance Timeline
Sep. 21 2021
•City Council directs City staff to develop Road Map for proposed policy
Nov. -Dec 2021
•Development and presentation of Road Map to City Council for Approval
Dec. -Jan. 2022
•Ordinance Drafting
•City Council Feedback
Jan. -Feb. 2022
•Public Comment and Information Process
Feb. -May. 2022
•Finalize Drafts
•Adopt Ordinance
Apr. -Jun. 2022 (& On-going)
•Implementation
•Outreach
Jun. 2022
•Ordinance effective
•Utensils & straws only upon request
Jul. 2023
•No Polystyrene
•Either (1) Reusable or (2) Certified Compostable and Marine Degradable Foodware Only
Proposed Single-Use Plastic Foodware Reduction Ordinance Timeline
Ongoing (Education, Outreach, Technical Assistance, Inspection and Enforcement, Waivers, Monitoring Progress and Feedback)
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 241 of 255
Timeline
Part 1 – Ordinance Development
Step Task Timeline
Development
Seek City Council feedback on SMMIP policy options and receive direction to create Road Map. Sep. – Oct. 2021
Create Policy Road Map plan Nov. 2021
City Council meeting for approval of Policy Road Map and direction to draft ordinance Dec. 14, 2021
Draft Single-Use Plastic Foodware Ordinance Dec. – Jan. 2022
City Council meeting to approve posting draft ordinance for public comment. Jan. 2022
Outreach and
refinement
Publish draft ordinances on city’s website for public comment Jan. 2022
Send outreach email notifying key stakeholder groups about public comment period Jan. 2022
Same week as
publishing on website
Public comment period Feb. 2022
(3-week period)
Finalization and
Adoption
Present public comment results to City Council subcommittee Feb. - March 2022
Revise draft ordinance based on subcommittee feedback (if needed) March – April 2022
Return to City Council with amended ordinance for 1st reading April 2022
Make edits to draft ordinances after 1st reading (if needed) April 2022
2nd reading and adoption20 April 2022
(Last meeting in April)
20 Meeting this timeline is necessary for implementation of Stage 1 by June 2022.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 242 of 255
Part 2 – Roll-out
Step Task Timeline
Implementation Outreach plan developed with Communications and Economic Development Department April – May 2022
City modifies purchasing policy to align with ordinance April – May 2022
Reminder letter to regulated entities about upcoming upon-request requirements May 2022
City modifies applicable forms or applications to include statement about ordinance (vendor
contracts, event permits, leases, business license renewal, etc.)
May 2022
City creates plan for waivers and complaints procedures May 2022
City creates upon-request signage/education materials for businesses May 2022
Ordinance takes effect21
June 1, 2022
(30 days from adoption)
Enforcement
Stage 1: Upon-
Request
Provisions
Enforcement of upon-request provisions
Accessory foodware (straws, utensil, etc.) upon request only.22
June 1, 2022
Regulated entities must post education materials (if the city has provided them) June 1, 2022
Enforcement
Stage 2:
Material Ban
City conducts targeted education and outreach campaign for Stage 2 requirements July 2022- June 2022
Enforcement for full material ban begins
No polystyrene; Either (1) reusable or (2) certified compostable and marine degradable
foodware only
July 1, 2023
On-Going Activities
In order to successfully implement the ordinance and achieve its intended goals, the city and regulated entities will need to conduct certain on-
going activities. Examples of these activities include:
• Issue waivers (as applicable, and if necessary)
21 Note that other ordinances will have a gap between effective date and enforcement stage one, however this ordinance has the same date in
order to comply with AB 1276, as described above.
22 This timeline aligns with State law, AB 1276.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 243 of 255
• Approval of business renewal licenses statements, vendor contracts, special event permits, etc.
• Recordkeeping by regulated entities
• Enforcement
• Education, outreach, and technical assistance
o Holding workshops
o Updating city’s website
o Creating education materials
o Creating signage for businesses
o Site visits to businesses for technical assistance
o Periodic program evaluation / stakeholder feedback review
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 244 of 255
2. Balloon Use Restriction and Plastic Beverage Bottle Ban at City Facilities and City-
Affiliated Events
Overview
The city is interested in implementing ordinances for city facilities and special events, sponsored by the city and/or on city property, that will
reduce waste and further the city’s sustainability goals. One ordinance identified in the SMMIP is banning plastic beverage bottles, with more
sustainable alternatives required.
Furthermore, City Council directed staff to propose banning the intentional release of balloons in the City, which cause severe damage to wildlife
and the environment. See Phase 3, Initiative C of the SMMIP for background and description of the proposed balloon release ban and plastic
beverage bottle ban.
Considering that the proposed balloon release ban and plastic beverage bottle ban require a more limited scope of behavior change than the
single-use plastic foodware ban and the single-use plastic bag ban, it is recommended that these ordinances be developed along the same timeline,
as depicted below. As mentioned above, it is recommended that the City first focus on the Single-Use Plastic Foodware Ordinance.23The
implementation stage for these two proposed policies is therefore offset to a later start date. A phase-in period of education between the effective
date and enforcement date the proposed ordinance is recommended. The proposed enforcement date of July 1, 2023 has been selected in order
to align with the city’s fiscal year.
23 Note that the Single-Use Plastic Foodware Ordinance also applies to city facilities and city-affiliated special events.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 245 of 255
Figure 3. Proposed Balloon Use Restrictions and Plastic Beverage Bottle Ordinances Timeline
Proposed Balloon Use Restriction and Plastic Beverage Bottle Ban Timeline
Sep. 21 2021
•City Council directs City staff to develop Road Map for proposed policies
Nov. -Dec. 2021
•Development and presentation of Road Map to City Council for Approval
Jan. -Feb. 2022
•Ordinance Drafting
•City Council Feedback
Mar. -Apr. 2022
•Public Comment and Information Process
Jun. -Jul. 2022
•Finalize Drafts
•Adopt Ordinances
Jul. -Aug. 2022 (& On-going)
•Implementation Outreach
Aug. 2022
•Plastic bottles (City Facilities and City-affiliated events) and balloon release prohibited (throughout city)
Jul. 2023
•Ordinances enforceable
Ongoing (Education, Outreach, and Technical Assistance, Inspection and Enforcement, Monitoring Progress and Feedback)
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 246 of 255
Timeline
Part 1 – Ordinance Development
Step Task Timeline
Development Seek City Council feedback on SMMIP policy options and receive direction to create Road Map Sep. – Oct. 2021
Create Policy Road Map Nov. 2021
City Council meeting for approval of Policy Road Map and direction to begin drafting
ordinances
Dec. 14, 2021
Draft balloon and plastic beverage bottle ordinances Jan. – Feb. 2022
City Council meeting to approve posting draft ordinance for public comment. Feb. 2022
Outreach and
refinement
Publish draft ordinances on city’s website for public comment March 2022
Send outreach email notifying key stakeholder groups about public comment period March 2022
(Same week as publishing
on website)
Public comment period April 2022
(3 weeks from notifying
public)
Finalization
and Adoption
Present public comment results to City Council subcommittee May 2022
Revise draft ordinance based on subcommittee feedback (if needed) May - June 2022
Return to City Council with amended ordinance for 1st reading June 2022
Make edits to draft ordinances after 1st reading (if needed) June - July 2022
2nd reading and adoption July 2022
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 247 of 255
Part 2 – Roll-Out
Step Task Timeline
Implementation City modifies internal policies July 2022
City modifies applicable forms/permit processes to include statement about ordinance
(special event permits, vendor contracts, event permits, leases, business license renewal,
etc.)
July 2022
Outreach plan developed with Communications and Economic Development Department Aug. 2022
City creates implementation education materials Aug. 2022
Balloon and plastic beverage bottle ordinances effective
(Grace period for implementation)
Aug. 2022
(30 days after adoption)
Enforcement
Stage
City conducts education and outreach campaign prior to enforcement date Sep. 2022 – June 2023
Balloon and plastic beverage bottle ordinances are enforceable July 1, 2023
On-Going Activities
The city will have certain on-going activities needed to successfully implement these proposed policies for city departments, as well as applicable
entities involved in city-affiliated events. Particularly as these policies will apply to multiple city departments, collaboration and education across
departments will be key. Examples of these on-going activities include:
• Approval of special event permits, purchasing activities, etc.
• Education, outreach, and technical assistance
o Creating education materials for all residents (balloon use restriction) and City staff (single-use plastic bottle ban)
o Providing education materials during event planning
o Conducting trainings and workshops for various city departments.
• Monitoring compliance
• Periodic program evaluation / stakeholder feedback review
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 248 of 255
3. Plastic Bag Ban
Overview
The SMMIP proposes a ban on single-use plastic bags, and requiring more sustainable alternatives, for retail stores and restaurant take-out. This
expands upon existing State law, SB 270, which enacted a plastic bag ban for grocery stores. See Phase 3, Initiative C of the SMMIP for details and
background on the recommended plastic bag ban. A phased implementation approach is recommended, as follows:
• Stage 1: Bag ban for retail stores
• Stage 2: Bag ban expands to restaurants
In order to support businesses with implementation, it is recommended that the enforcement timeline for the bag ban be phased in after the
other ordinances. Businesses, particularly restaurants, will be facing multiple new policy requirements over the next few years, such as SB 1383
requirements (2022 and 2024 for Tier 2 food generators) and both stages of the city’s proposed Single-Use Plastic Foodware Ordinance (Stage 1
in June 2022; Stage 2 in June 2023). By spreading out the enforcement timelines, the city aims to set businesses up for success and increase quality
of participation.
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 249 of 255
Figure 3. Proposed Plastic Bag Ban Timeline
Proposed Plastic Bag Ban Timeline
Sep. 21 2021
•City Council directs City staff to develop Road Map for proposed policies
Nov. -Dec. 2021
•Development and presentation of Road Map to City Council for Approval
Jan. -Feb. 2022
•Ordinance Drafting
•City Council Feedback
Mar. -Apr. 2022
•Public Comment and Information Process
Jun. -Jul. 2022
•Finalize Drafts
•Adopt Ordinances
Jul. -Aug. 2022 (& On-going)
•Implementation Outreach
Aug. 2022
•Plastic bag
ordinance
takes effect
Jul. 2023
•Bag ban
Enforceable for
Retail Stores
July 2024
•Bag ban
Enforceable for
Restaurants
Ongoing (Education, Outreach, Technical Assistance, Inspection and Enforcement, Waiver Administration, Monitoring Progress and Feedback)
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 250 of 255
Timeline
Part 1 – Ordinance Development
Step Task Timeline
Development Seek City Council feedback on SMMIP policy options and receive direction to create Road
Map
Sep. - Oct. 2021
Create Policy Road Map Nov. 2021
City Council meeting for approval of Policy Road Map and direction to begin drafting
ordinances
Dec. 14, 2021
Draft ordinances Jan. – Feb. 2022
City Council meeting to approve posting draft ordinance for public comment. Feb. 2022
Outreach and
refinement
Publish draft ordinances on city’s website for public comment March 2022
Send outreach email notifying key stakeholder groups about public comment period March 2022
(Same week as publishing
on website)
Public comment period April 2022
(3 weeks from public notice)
Finalization
and Adoption
Present public comment results to City Council subcommittee May 2022
Revise draft ordinance based on subcommittee feedback (if needed) May - June 2022
Return to City Council with amended ordinance for 1st reading June 2022
Make edits to draft ordinances after 1st reading (if needed) June - July 2022
2nd reading and adoption July 2022
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 251 of 255
Part 2 – Roll-Out
Step Task Timeline
Implementation Reminder letter to regulated entities about upcoming ordinance July 2022
City modifies applicable forms or applications to include statement about ordinance
(business license renewal, etc.)
July 2022
Outreach plan developed with Communications and Economic Development Department July 2022
Ordinance takes effect
Regulated entities begin complying – grace period for implementation
August 2022
(30 days after adoption)
City conducts outreach campaigns Aug. - Dec. 2022
City creates plan for waivers and complaints procedures Dec. 2022
Enforcement
Stage 1
(Retail)
Targeted education and outreach to retail businesses Jan. – June 2023
Ordinance enforceable for non-food retail July 1, 2023
Enforcement
Stage 2
(Restaurants)
Targeted education and outreach to restaurants Jan. – June 2023
Ordinance enforceable for both restaurants and retail July 1, 2024
On-Going Activities
In order to successfully implement the ordinance and achieve its intended goals, the city and regulated entities will need to conduct certain on-
going activities. The city could combine some of these activities with other efforts, such as conducting inspections or education in tandem with
SB 1383 education and enforcement.
Examples of these on-going activities may include the following.
• Education, outreach, and technical assistance, such as:
o Holding workshops
o Updating city’s website
o Creating education materials and signage for businesses
o Site visits to businesses for technical assistance
• Issuing waivers (as needed)
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 252 of 255
• Approval of business renewal licenses statements, vendor contracts, special event permits, etc.
• Recordkeeping by regulated entities
• Inspection Program
• Enforcement
• Periodic program evaluation / stakeholder feedback review
o Engage with Chamber of Commerce and local organizations to receive feedback
o Monitor calls received from the public about the ordinance, if any
o Consider conducting surveys or other evaluation efforts
Dec. 14, 2021 Item #18 Page 253 of 255