Waste Reduction

Waste from County operations ends up in landfills, where it breaks down and releases methane, a greenhouse gas that is 28 times more potent than carbon dioxide. Preventing these emissions requires prioritizing source reduction and strengthening waste diversion actions reducing, reusing, recycling, and composting. By keeping materials out of landfills, the County can significantly reduce its climate impact and move closer to zero waste.

Goals:

2030: Reduce emissions from waste by 80% compared to 2005 levels
2035: Reduce emissions from waste by 100% compared to 2005 levels

Summary of Strategies

Certify County Departments as Green Businesses
Adopt a Sustainable Purchasing Policy
Reduce Paper Use
Divert Surplus Property from Waste
Remove Disposable Food Serviceware
Analyze the County’s Waste Stream and Improve Collection and Services.
Reduce Waste from Public Spaces
Incorporate More Local Food Options
Conduct Employee Training and Outreach

See Focus Area 3: Waste in the Government Operations Climate Action Plan (PDF) for more details on objectives and actions.

The Latest News & Events

Aug
22

Free Tire Recycling Drop-Off Event @ Millbrae library

The County of San Mateo Sustainability Department is hosting a free tire recycling drop-off event for San Mateo County residents. There is a limit of 9 passenger or light truck tires per vehicle, as required by state law. Tires accepted at this event must be size R19.5 or smaller, with or without rims. Please ensure the tires are deflated. Tires from commercial, auto repair, and/or salvage businesses will not be accepted.

Location: 1 Library Ave, Millbrae, CA 94030
Date: August 22, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Collector: San Jose Conservation Corps

Questions?

Call 888-442-2666

Residents must provide proof of residency in San Mateo County (e.g., driver’s license, utility bill, garbage collection bill, etc.).

For larger truck tires (tractor, truck etc.) contact the Sustainability Department at 888-442-2666 for recycling location information or visit www.recyclestuff.org.

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