The city has reaffirmed its commitment to sustainability with a renewed focus on recycling and composting, aiming for an ambitious 80% waste diversion by 2030. This initiative began in 2015 with the adoption of the city's first official waste and recycling goal, which led to the development of a comprehensive zero waste plan, likened to a \"playbook\" for implementation.

In 2017, the playbook was adopted, followed by a detailed action plan in 2019 outlining specific strategies for the period from 2020 to 2022. Despite challenges posed by the global pandemic, the city managed to implement several initiatives in the residential sector and some in commercial and industrial areas, funded primarily through residential service fees.

The city has opted not to update the zero waste action plan directly, as it is integrating its efforts into a new climate equity plan, which includes a food and zero waste circular economy section. This section outlines five strategies, with a total of 31 actions aimed at enhancing waste management and food access.

Looking ahead, the mayor's draft budget for 2025 includes a request for nearly $300,000 to support the zero waste climate legacy initiative. This funding will facilitate a consultant study to explore ongoing funding mechanisms for zero waste efforts beyond the residential sector and promote community-led innovative projects.

Additionally, the recent passage of 30 waste-related bills in the 2024 legislative session marks a significant step forward. Notably, the Packaging Waste and Cost Reduction Act positions Minnesota as the fifth state to adopt such legislation, holding manufacturers accountable for their packaging. This law mandates fees for packaging items, which will fund recycling initiatives and encourage manufacturers to adopt more sustainable practices, such as using reusable containers and increasing recycled content.

These developments reflect the city's proactive approach to waste management and environmental responsibility, aiming to foster a sustainable future through community engagement and legislative support.