Oct 21 - San Francisco Recycling and Composting Ordinance Goes Into Effect

A first-of-its-kind recycling ordinance goes into effect today in San Francisco. The ordinance requires businesses and residents to seperate recyclable and compostable materials from their garbage and will position San Francisco as a clear leader in waste reduction and recycling.

According to the New York Times, the ordinance, which was signed into law in June, has already been a boon for recycling and composting in San Francisco. "The amount of compostables collected from residents and businesses in special green-colored bins had jumped to 500 tons a day," up from 400 tons in June.

NPR's Morning Edition reports that "so far, it's a mandate San Franciscans seem to relish. In fact, many residents and landlords began implementing the law before it took effect, using their city-provided food recycling bins to separate waste."

Listen to the entire story on NPR's Morning Edition: