The city of Brea has issued a warning to residents about improper sorting of trash, as per state law requirements. The city announced on social media last week that it will randomly inspect trash bins to ensure compliance with Senate Bill 1383, a law aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions through organic waste recycling.
According to Yahoo News, city workers will check randomly selected addresses and leave a tag labeled “OOPS!” on bins that contain incorrectly sorted items. Examples of contamination include placing plastic bags in recycling bins, food in trash bins, and aluminum cans in organics bins. Homeowners found in violation could face fines starting at $50.
The announcement has sparked criticism from some residents who argue that the enforcement efforts are excessive. Some social media users pointed out that people other than homeowners might place items in the bins, suggesting that the city should focus on educating the public about proper waste sorting.
The inspections are part of a broader effort to comply with California’s Senate Bill 1383, which mandates organic waste recycling to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. However, a 2023 report from the Little Hoover Commission oversight panel criticized the program for not effectively reducing emissions and suggested it be paused or scrapped. CalRecycle, the agency managing the program, argued that halting it would endanger climate progress and investments.
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