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.