Sustainable San Mateo County’s 29^th Annual Indicators Report was unveiled on October 1, 2025 from 9 – 11 a.m., at a free in-person event at the Sobrato Shoreway Conference Room at 350 Twin Dolphin Drive in Redwood City.

Direct and indirect emissions from the food system account for 34% of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Yet, food-related emissions remain an untapped area in local climate planning, presenting a significant opportunity to make progress in reducing our carbon footprint. The 2025 Indicators Report explores food-related emissions, identifies key barriers, evaluates successful strategies already underway locally and from other regions and provides actionable recommendations.

Local government and community leaders joined to discuss food actions we can take for a cooler future.

At the event, SSMC’s Indicators Report Program Manager, Simone Vallone, shared the key findings and highlights of the Indicators Report, along with recommendations for next steps. Other speakers included:

• Michael Brownrigg, RethinkWaste Board Vice Chair and City of Burlingame Vice Chair, addressed the challenges of complying with SB 1383, shared Rethink Waste’s programs to support cities and communities and discussed what cities can do to motivate residents and businesses to reduce food-based emissions.
• Gordon Tong from the San Mateo County Department of Sustainability, explained the county’s coordination role in edible food recovery and compost procurement under SB 1383 and shared insights on how county-level programs are supporting cities and local partners.
• Kerry Dees, Principal at Green Hills Elementary School, discussed practical school-based efforts to reduce food waste and improve sorting and highlighted what has worked in building a culture of awareness and action among students.