Episode Summary:
Join host Shane Silsby on The Public Works Podcast for a special episode featuring Tom Koutroulis, Director of Orange County Waste & Recycling. Go behind the scenes at the Frank R. Bowerman Landfill and discover how Tom and his team are leading the way in sustainability, education, compliance, and innovative waste management.

In this episode, Tom shares his unique journey from private sector to public service, explains how Orange County is tackling California’s recycling and landfill regulations, and highlights the county’s efforts in composting, renewable energy, and community education. Learn about the challenges and successes of implementing circular economy practices, the importance of public participation, and the future of waste management technology.

Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction & Episode Overview
00:42 - Meet Tom Koutroulis, Director of OC Waste & Recycling
01:16 - Tom’s Career Journey: Private to Public Sector
03:53 - How Orange County’s Landfills Operate
06:01 - Funding, Compliance, and Enterprise Fund Explained
08:14 - Sustainability & Circular Economy in OC
10:56 - Composting Initiatives & Free Compost for Residents
13:47 - What is Diversion? Why It Matters
15:53 - SB 1383: Organics Diversion & Compliance
18:32 - Challenges: Permitting, Education, and Outreach
21:23 - Recycling Myths & Market Realities
23:11 - Community Participation & Container Sorting
24:33 - Advice for Other Communities
26:33 - Education & Outreach: Schools and Public
28:55 - Partnerships: Haulers, Cities, and Community
31:34 - Landfill Tours & Community Engagement
32:31 - Innovations & Technology in Waste Management
34:36 - The Future: Waste-to-Energy & Advanced Recycling
37:15 - Setting the Standard: OC’s Leadership & Safety
39:32 - Final Thoughts & How to Get Involved
41:11 - Outro & Additional Landfill Tour Videos

Stick around for exclusive video snippets from our landfill tour and insights from the OC Waste & Recycling team.

Whether you’re a public works professional, a sustainability advocate, or just curious about what happens to your trash, this episode offers valuable lessons and inspiration. Don’t forget to like and subscribe to The Public Works Podcast; and visit oclandfills.com for more information!

The Public Works Podcast: Tom Koutroulis Episode