7 Cities Globally with the Most Effective Waste Management Systems

San Francisco, USA: Leading the zero-waste initiative, San Francisco has an impressive recycling and composting system with a goal to achieve zero waste by 2030.

Tokyo, Japan: Tokyo enforces strict waste sorting regulations, innovative recycling methods, and has several state-of-the-art waste processing facilities.

Oslo, Norway: Oslo utilizes advanced waste-to-energy systems, turning garbage into heating and electricity for its residents, reducing reliance on landfills.

Seoul, South Korea: The city introduced the volume-based waste fee system, charging residents based on the amount of non-recyclable waste they produce, promoting reduction and recycling.

Ljubljana, Slovenia: The first capital in the EU to adopt a zero-waste goal, Ljubljana has comprehensive recycling programs and has dramatically reduced its waste sent to landfills.

Toronto, Canada: Known for its Green Bin program, Toronto has an extensive organic waste collection system alongside efficient recycling and waste diversion efforts.

Zurich, Switzerland: Zurich residents pay for waste using taxed garbage bags, encouraging waste reduction. The city also has advanced recycling facilities and waste-to-energy plants.