Hilary Neer updates San Francisco on SB 1383 edible food recovery and procurement progress

In a recent government meeting, San Francisco officials discussed the implementation of Senate Bill 1383, aimed at reducing short-lived climate pollutants through enhanced edible food recovery and organic waste procurement. Hilary Neer, the city’s senior coordinator for commercial dairy waste, presented an update on the bill's progress and its alignment with the city's climate action plan.

The primary focus of SB 1383 is to promote responsible food production and consumption by redistributing edible food before it is wasted. Neer highlighted that San Francisco has a robust organics collection program in place, which has been operational for over 25 years. However, the city is leveraging new opportunities under SB 1383 to expand its efforts in edible food recovery and enhance community resources.

One significant achievement noted was the reporting from food recovery organizations, which indicated that over 3,000 tons of food were donated in 2024 alone. This figure represents approximately 1.5% of the total food redistributed statewide, showcasing the city's commitment to addressing food waste and supporting those in need. The city has also partnered with the San Francisco Unified School District to implement share tables in schools, allowing students and families to access surplus food.

Neer emphasized the importance of education and training for businesses required to comply with the new regulations. The Department of Public Health is actively involved in inspecting food generators to ensure compliance with donation agreements and to facilitate the safe redistribution of food.

In addition to food recovery, the meeting addressed the procurement of organic waste products. San Francisco is mandated to purchase a significant amount of compost material to support its sustainability goals. Neer reported that the city has dedicated a $1.1 million grant from CalRecycle to distribute compost to local farmers, thereby nourishing soils and promoting environmental benefits.

The discussions underscored the city’s proactive approach to waste management and climate action, with a focus on creating a sustainable food system that benefits both the community and the environment. As San Francisco continues to implement SB 1383, officials anticipate further improvements in food recovery efforts and organic waste management, contributing to the city’s long-term sustainability objectives.