Living sustainably in Salt Lake City means balancing city life with our incredible natural surroundings. From improving air quality to reducing waste, we have many opportunities to go green. Review Utah’s biggest environmental challenges, and explore SLC’s best sustainability resources, recycling options, and more below.

How sustainable is Salt Lake City?

Salt Lake City itself has an awesome, albeit small, sustainability department. This enthusiastic group cares a lot about our local environment, and they make the most of the resources they have. They work hard on a variety of sustainability-driven initiatives and resident education, including their very informative slcGreen blog. They teach a free Master Recycling program every spring, which I completed in 2023. We had guest speakers and toured different facilities. I highly recommend it if you want to learn how these systems work.

The city has a goal to become zero waste by 2040, and we all need to jump on board to achieve that. If you’re interested, you can read Salt Lake City’s Climate Positive 2040 action plan.

I know we can all do better–we have to–and I sincerely hope that this resource will make it easier to connect with the people and information you need to do your part. C’mon SLC, Let’s Go Green!

Please, by all means, let me know if I missed anything. I am always adding more information.

Recycling in Salt Lake City

In 2022, 37% of SLC residential waste stream was diverted from the landfill through recycling and composting. SLC has a robust recycling program, but there is room for improvement, especially with materials that are not accepted in curbside recycling bins, such as glass and food waste.

Got recycling questions? Find answers and local recycling resources here.

Environmental organizations

There are numerous non-profits and other organizations that fight for conservation, clean air, and good environmental policy. Donating to these causes or volunteering your time is a great way to advocate for our local resources.

Find your next favorite SLC eco-volunteering opportunity here.