Waste Prevention
Where Waste Comes From
 In San José, 40% of the total waste generated is sent to the landfill every year. Of this total, 260,000 tons comes from residential sources, 254,000 tons comes from commercial, industrial and institutional sources, and 195,000 tons comes from construction and demolition sources.
Source: Environmental Services Integrated Waste Management Division, City of San José
 No More Waste
San José leads the nation with one of the highest recycling rates for a city of its size. But more can be done. Through its Green Vision goals, San José has committed to eliminate its waste from going to landfills by 2022 by preventing waste at its source, increasing recycling and converting anything left over to energy. We are developing a Zero Waste Plan to divert 100% of waste from the landfill by 2022.
Why Waste Prevention Is Important
As the population of the world and the Bay Area continues to grow, efficient use of available resources is becoming increasingly important, because:
- Landfill capacity is reaching its limit locally.
- Landfills compete with other land uses, such as residential, business, industry, transportation and recreational uses.
- It is expensive to transport waste to distant disposal sites.
- Extraction of raw materials for the manufacture of new goods is threatening natural ecosystems around the world.
More Can Be Done
The residential curbside recycling and yard trimmings collection programs, as well as civic recycling, and the construction demolition and diversion program are helping San José to divert more than 60% of its total waste from disposal in the landfill. These programs are currently being analyzed for ways to improve our recycling rates through increased education and participation, better processing of the collected materials and expanding recycling programs to include new waste streams such as food waste in schools, events and city facilities. Learn how San José is gathering stakeholder input to improve recycling services for businesses.
Energy from Waste
The Zero Waste Plan will examine technologies for deriving energy from waste materials and the potential for developing these technologies in San José. The Plan will include an evaluation of the feasibility of locating an energy recovery facility on the San Jose/Santa Clara Water Pollution Control Plant lands that will use selected waste materials which cannot otherwise be recycled or composted.
Eliminating Waste At Its Source
 Waste prevention begins with the thoughtful choices of each individual and organization in our community as we purchase and consume goods.
Start with small and easy steps in your home, by eliminating disposable items, such as plastic bags, wherever you can. Choose products with less packaging that are designed to last a long time without needing replacement. When you no longer need something, find a new owner by donating the item to a non-profit organization. Be creative and find new ways to use things that have outlived their original purpose. See waste prevention ideas for residents on this website.
At the office, reduce the amount of paper you use by utilizing the Internet to communicate, read, research and make purchases. Store records electronically on computers and networks. Use reuseable coffee mugs, plates and utensils. Take public transportation, ride your bike, or walk whenever possible. Choose office furnishings, equipment and electronics that are designed for durability, energy efficiency and are made from recycled materials. Keep your serviceable items instead of replacing them when fashion or styles change. If you no longer need an item, donate it to a small business, school, church or other organization. See waste prevention ideas for employees on this website.
In your neighborhood, take an active role by participating in your children's schools and starting a school recycling or composting program. See the Go Green Schools Program on this website for assistance with free recycling supplies for San José K-12 schools and other green resources.
As you become a more conscientious consumer, lead by example. Advocate for recycling and environmentally preferable purchasing at your company or organization.
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