Don’t mess with Texas! Well, don’t mess with Austin, anyway, which has laid out an ambitious goal of diverting 90% of the city’s mess (waste) by 2040. With typical Texan aplomb, city official’s are calling this their “Zero Waste…or Darn Near” campaign. The measure received unanimous approval by the Austin City Council, which said its strategic plan includes: expanded and improved recycling and composting, new rules and incentives to reduce waste, preserved land for sustainable development and green industry infrastructure, advocacy for manufacturer responsibility, and education and community involvement programs.
Surprised to see the Lone Star State capital so ahead of the curve? You shouldn’t be. Austin has been one of America’s greenest cities for years (recently selected #1 Greenest City by MSN), and it’s home to the headquarters of sustainability pioneers Whole Foods.
