UTILITIES

Solid Waste

The UC Davis landfill began operations in 2001. The landfill was designed and permitted for a 30 year operating life.  It includes all modern environmental controls to protect groundwater, and we collect the gas produced by the landfill to run a boiler at the California National Primate Research Center.

In keeping with the University sustainability policy goal to be zero waste by 2020, options for closing the landfill were reviewed in early 2011. One option studied was to immediately close the landfill and begin hauling elsewhere. That plan was ultimately found to be the most cost effective option.

In response to these findings, the UC Davis Landfill stopped accepting waste in August 2011. Refuse is now hauled to the Yolo County Central Landfill. The campus and the County are in discussions to establish a long-term contract. The campus is now working to update the closure plan for our landfill. Formal "closure" of the landfill (e.g., final grading etc.) is planned for the summer of 2012.

Meanwhile, the campus is contining to develop zero waste plans that may include options such as a large biodigester and other innovative waste treatment options.