"In 2009, Austin became the first city in Texas to adopt a Zero Waste Strategic Plan. The plan set a goal of diverting 90 percent of waste away from landfills and incinerators by 2040. But Austin is not on track to meet that goal, according to an audit conducted by the Office of the City Auditor. In fact, the diversion rate of 37 percent in 2024 was less than the diversion rate 10 years earlier - 39.81 percent - according to the report."
"While education is not the only tool the City has to increase its diversion rate, we found ARR has opportunities to improve its education efforts that may help the City meet its goals. The department is not prioritizing its efforts based on impact to the City's Zero Waste Goal. Additionally, we found that there (are) inconsistent recycling and composting messages across the city and its private haulers."
Austin adopted a Zero Waste Strategic Plan in 2009 aiming to divert 90 percent of waste from landfills and incinerators by 2040. The city's diversion rate was 37 percent in 2024, lower than 39.81 percent a decade earlier, showing the city is not on track. Austin Resource Recovery manages roughly 15 percent of local waste while private haulers collect and process the remainder. The Universal Recycling Ordinance sets minimum recycling and composting requirements, but some property owners receive waivers. Auditors identified inconsistent messaging and found ARR is not prioritizing efforts based on impact, noting opportunities to improve education.
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