(Flickr | Umberto Brayj)

The controversial “Zero Waste” Policy sets a goal of diverting 90 percent of its trash away from landfills by 2025. By using the new system, the city hopes to increase recycling, improve costs and improve safety.

"It's easier for the city to manage this system, to hold the hauling industry accountable and responsible," City Councilman Jose Huizar told the Los Angeles Times.

To meet this effort, the City Council approved the controversial “Exclusive Franchise System” to split the city into 11 franchise zones each contracted to one hauler, or trash pickup company.

The previous system allowed businesses and large apartments to contract negotiations with any of the City’s permitted 50-60 private waste haulers.

Carol Schatz, chief executive of the Central City Association, which represented businesses primarily in Downtown LA opposes the new contracting system. She told Don’t Waste LA, an environmental and labor advocacy group, that this is a ploy for the city to unionize the industry

“This is an example once again of the city focusing on an issue to help an industry organize,” said Schatz. “This will benefit a few workers while increasing the cost for every business, every commercial property owner and thousands of apartment tenants."

Sixty-nine percent of LA’s waste is generated by businesses and large apartment complexes, according to city reports.

Read more from The Los Angeles Times.

Reach Executive Producer Denise Guerra here or on Twitter here.