How Green Can San Francisco Go?

Gavin Newsom, mayor of a city with numerous recycling programs – from furniture and old toys to restaurant garbage converted into compost for vineyards and farms – has his heart set on San Francisco breaking its own record. With a recycling rate already surpassing other large U.S. cities and attracting international attention, Newsom’s office is reportedly drafting a proposed law for mandatory recycling of cans, bottles, paper, yard waste and food scraps. The New York Times reports scofflaws would risk having their garbage pickups suspended.

Americans continue to send mixed signals on environmental protection. In a March 2008 Gallup poll, asked if they've changed personal behavior because of environmental concern, 28 percent pointed to major changes and 55 percent said they made only minor changes. Recycling was the most popular change, with 39 percent indicating they are recycling or recycling more often. Fourteen percent also said they are buying biodegradable products. Check out the Public Agenda issue guide on the environment for more on public opinion on protecting the environment.