Recycling 75 percent of the nation’s waste will create nearly 1.5 million jobs by 2030 while significantly reducing pollution, saving both water and energy, and building economically strong and healthy communities says a new study entitled  More Jobs, Less Pollution released in November by leading labor and environmental groups.

“San Francisco’s goal of Zero Waste is not only important for our efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions but it equally provides opportunities for local residents to gain good paying green jobs – it’s a win-win for the environment and our local communities,” said Melanie Nutter, Director of the San Francisco Department of the Environment.“To date we are at 78 percent waste diversion and have created over 500 green jobs in the City at the same time.”

San Francisco's goal should be emulated nationwide. While the vast majority of municipal solid waste nationwide can be readily recycled, re-used, or composted, only 33 percent is currently diverted from disposal, and only 30 percent of the 178 million tons of construction and demolition debris is recycled. Most of America's waste is still sent to landfills and incinerators. By implementing a bold national recycling and composting strategy of 75 percent waste diversion rate by 2030, the report shows that we can create much needed local jobs, save water and reduce pollution . 

By diverting 75 percent of the nation’s waste, including municipal and construction and demolition waste, our nation would reduce emissions by 276 million metric tons by 2030, or the equivalent of eliminating emissions from 72 coal-fired power plants or taking 50 million cars off the road. 

“Recycling conserves natural resources, cuts global warming pollution, and saves water and energy,” said Darby Hoover, Senior Resource Specialist with the Natural Resources Defense Council. “This new report shows that not only is recycling good for the environment, it’s good for the economy. By expanding recycling, we can create jobs and help protect the environment at the same time."