Redwood Landfill’s future plans(pdf) are closely aligned with Marin County’s Climate Protection Plan, adopted by the Marin County Board of Supervisors in 2002.
In 2010, Redwood completed its new scale house whose roof supports solar panels that generate enough energy to power the site’s administration offices. Redwood’s additional energy and recycling initiatives will result in significant greenhouse gas reduction and will help the County achieve its goal of 15% reduction in 2000 emissions levels by 2020.
Expanded Composting Facility – The decay of organic materials in landfills generates landfill gas, a potent greenhouse gas. Composting of food scraps and yard trimmings reduces the associated GHG emissions of landfills and produces compost to renew local soil. By expanding its composting facility, Redwood will be able to accommodate commercial food waste along with residential food waste.
C&D Materials Recovery Facility – Diverting construction and demolition materials from the landfill has the potential to eliminate nearly 30,000 tons of CO2 according to the County Climate Protection Plan. Redwood plans to build a 400-ton-per-day facility to process C&D along with dry waste materials like cardboard and pallets.
Reuse – The County estimates nearly 33,000 tons of CO2 can be eliminated annually through reuse rather than the consumption of new products. Redwood has design a public drop-off site for recyclables and reusable materials. Working with local non-profits, reusable materials will be donated for resale or reuse.