About the Indicators Report

Sustainable San Mateo County has been tracking sustainability progress in the county since 1997 through its annual Indicators Report. This report provides fact-based information on sustainability indicators and local trends impacting San Mateo County’s economy, environment and social equity. Since its inception, the Indicators Report has been welcomed as an invaluable source of information by governments, businesses, civic groups and nonprofit organizations that use it to set goals, measure progress and prioritize resource allocation.

Propelled by the philosophy that “what gets measured, gets managed,” the report presents metrics, success stories and showcases positive changes that raise awareness of sustainability in the local cities and our county. In addition to measuring progress, the Indicators Report offers case studies of local governments and businesses, as well as data-driven insights, resources and recommendations that help sustainability practitioners make sound decisions for the benefit of future generations.

The 2026 Report

Each year the report takes a deep dive into one sustainability topic, examining the current status and providing actionable solutions and recommendations.

The focus of our 2026 Indicators Report will be the urban tree canopy. This topic was chosen based on discussions with government and community leaders about the decreasing tree coverage and the correlated health impacts that are effecting more and more communities across San Mateo County.

Register for free to join this year’s launch event!
October 23, 2026 from 9-11 a.m.
Chan Zuckerberg Community Space in Redwood CIty

The report will investigate where trees are lacking today, the health disparities this is causing and solutions for planting trees more equitably. This report is being developed with the help of students at Stanford University and organizations including Rise South City, City Trees, Canopy, BuildUp SMC and C/CAG.

We look forward to launching the report in October! In the meantime, take a look at our Ideas Bank Solution, “Urban Tree Planting” to find out about the environmental, health and monetary benefits of trees, the different planting programs available and keys to planting success.

Past Reports

Click here for the 2025 Indicators Report: Local Food Actions for a Cooler Future

Click here for information on the 2025 Indicators Report launch event.

Click here for the 2024 Indicators Report: “Equitable Paths to EV Charging”

See previous Indicators Reports