Encinitas is striving to achieve zero waste. Zero waste is maximum diversion from landfills and incinerators. This effort is focuses on adoption policies that support reduce, reuse and recycling practices. The goal is to send the least amount of waste to the landfill by ensuring that resources are used efficiently without waste and environmental impact.

The Encinitas City Council adopted a Climate Action Plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions which includes the implementation of a citywide zero waste program. Through the cap strategy, the city’s goal is to reduce residents’ waste generation to 5.3 pounds per person per day (lbs./person/day) by 2020 and 3.0 lbs./person/day by 2030. Achieving this goal depends on the expansion of recycling and organics recycling programs and participation from residents and businesses to reduce waste and increase diversion.

Track the City’s progress on its zero waste goals on the Climate Dashboard.

City staff actively works to reduce waste generated by daily office activities. The Employee Green Guide is a comprehensive resource to help staff make the most sustainable and cost-effective decisions throughout the workday. City Hall, Public Works, and the Community and Senior Center have staff-led composting programs that help divert food waste and paper towels from the landfill.

To support proper sorting practices, detailed signage is placed at waste receptacles throughout City facilities to ensure maximum diversion from the landfill. Staff are periodically offered zero-waste educational workshops and challenges to encourage participation and improvement.

While these efforts have led to meaningful progress, there is always room for growth. The City of Encinitas remains committed to reducing the waste footprint of municipal operations and will continue striving toward more sustainable practices each day.