In 2002, San Francisco pledged to reach zero waste by 2020. 18 years later, it fell short but still diverted 80% of waste from landfills and recycled 600 tonnes each day

San Francisco began working toward a long-term goal of reducing the amount of waste sent to landfills and eventually reaching zero waste.

In 2002, the city set a target of diverting 75% of its waste by 2010. A year later, it went further by setting a goal of reaching zero waste by 2020.

San Francisco did not achieve that final target. By 2012, however, the city was diverting nearly 80% of its waste, the highest rate among major U.S. cities.

San Francisco made recycling and composting part of everyday life

A key step came in 2009, when San Francisco passed its Mandatory Recycling and Composting Ordinance.

The rules require residents and businesses to separate recyclable materials, compostable waste and remaining trash destined for landfills.

The system is built around what the city calls the "Fantastic Three," three separate bins for recyclables, compostable materials and remaining trash.

The compost stream includes food scraps, food-soiled paper and yard trimmings.

Food scraps were turned into compost

San Francisco also introduced what it describes as the first and largest urban food scraps composting collection program in the U.S., serving both homes and businesses.

The city has collected more than two million tons of food scraps, yard trimmings and other compostable materials. These materials were turned into compost used by farmers and wineries in Napa and Sonoma counties.

The city added more ways to cut waste

San Francisco's approach extended beyond recycling and composting.

The city introduced initiatives covering single-use plastic checkout bags, food service waste, textiles, construction and demolition debris, and recycling and composting at events.

It also created customizable signs to help residents and businesses identify where recyclable, compostable and landfill waste should go.

A long-term partnership supports the system

San Francisco works with Recology through a long-term arrangement rather than a traditional contract.

The city provides oversight, research and outreach, while Recology handles collection, processing and reporting. Program managers from both sides regularly communicate about performance and outstanding issues.

Businesses can also receive rate discounts based on their actual waste diversion.

San Francisco's waste program continued to focus on recycling, composting and reducing the amount of waste sent to landfills. Its efforts included mandatory separation, composting programs and policies covering different types of waste and materials.