Republic Services Advances Sustainability with New Composting Facility in Southern California

Republic Services is making significant strides in sustainability and waste management with the construction of the San Bernardino Sustainability Park, aimed at enhancing composting capacity in Southern California. This innovative facility, which is set to open in late 2026, is designed to support local communities in meeting California's SB 1383 organic waste reduction mandates. By promoting a circular approach to material management, Republic Services positions itself at the forefront of environmental sustainability initiatives. According to Chris Seney, director of organics for Republic Services, the facility plays a crucial role in diverting organic waste from landfills and supplying high-quality compost back to local communities.

A Central Hub for Organic Waste Management

Spanning 140 acres, the San Bernardino Sustainability Park allocates 60 acres specifically for compost operations. The state-of-the-art facility will employ advanced aerated static pile composting technology that enhances processing times. Initially, it is set to process over 300,000 tons of yard and food waste annually. However, plans are in place to scale this capacity to an impressive 600,000 tons per year. The integration of modern depackaging technology aims to reduce waste contamination, which ultimately improves the quality of the materials being processed. This facility is envisioned as a central hub for organics within the greater Los Angeles and Orange County regions.

Republic Services' Leadership in Sustainability

Republic Services reflects its commitment to sustainability by operating 17 facilities across California, including a mix of compost sites and commercial food waste preprocessing facilities. Last year, the company successfully processed 886,000 tons of food and yard waste, demonstrating its commitment to landfill diversion and the beneficial reuse of organic materials. As the firm continues to innovate and expand its capabilities, it solidifies its reputation as a leader in the environmental services industry, providing essential products and services that promote environmental stewardship and circularity in waste management.

Honoring Employee Contributions

In addition to its sustainability efforts, the company recognizes the hard work and dedication of its employees. Recently, at the National Waste & Recycling Association's 2026 Annual Awards Gala, four employees from Republic Services were honored for their remarkable contributions to the industry. These accolades, which include awards such as Technician of the Year and National Safety-Sensitive Driver of the Year, highlight the company’s investment in workplace safety and excellence.

Advancing Standards in Waste Management

Furthermore, the recognition of dedicated employees like Dave Bombei and Ausencio Carrera serves to enhance the image of the waste and recycling sector, showcasing the critical role of skilled professionals in advancing the industry. This commitment to both sustainability and employee recognition underscores Republic Services' leadership in the evolving world of waste management.