The San Francisco City Commission meeting on July 4, 2025, focused on the city's refuse rate process and the priorities for Recology, the city's waste management partner. Alexa Kelty, the Residential Zero Waste Senior Coordinator, presented a comprehensive update on the city's efforts to achieve its zero waste goals and the necessary steps to reduce landfill waste.

Kelty highlighted that the city has made significant progress in reducing landfill rates, which have decreased from nearly 900,000 tons to a much lower figure due to innovative programs developed in collaboration with Recology. She emphasized the importance of continued investment in these programs to maintain the downward trend and meet the city's zero waste objectives, which include cutting landfill rates in half by 2030.

A key component of the discussion was the upcoming rate application that Recology must submit by January 1, 2026. Kelty outlined several priorities for this application, including enhancing recovery efforts through improved reuse programs, particularly for bulky items. She noted that approximately 50% of materials collected could potentially be reused, and there are plans to partner with local organizations to facilitate this.

The meeting also addressed the need for better management of organic waste, which contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. Kelty pointed out that organic materials in landfills produce methane, a potent greenhouse gas, and stressed the importance of diverting these materials through composting initiatives.

Additionally, the commission discussed the implementation of new technologies for contamination monitoring and the need for increased public outreach regarding recycling and composting practices. The meeting concluded with a call for Recology to enhance its efforts in battery recycling and to pilot new technologies to improve waste processing.

Overall, the discussions underscored the city's commitment to achieving its zero waste goals while addressing environmental concerns and improving waste management practices. The next steps involve Recology's rate application process, which will determine the future of waste management strategies in San Francisco.