Waste Reduction, Recycling & Composting Zero Waste Programs & Events Construction & Demolition Debris Management Sustainable Business Consulting

sustainable resource management
waste reduction, recycling, composting and zero waste programs

What is Zero Waste?

Resource managementZero waste is a strategy that views all materials as resources and carefully plans the manufacture, purchase and use of goods so no materials become waste.  Instead, all materials are repaired, reused, recycled or composted. Unlike recycling, the process typically involves many departments within an organization. Zero waste aims to eliminate, rather than manage waste.

Zero Waste includes:

  • Designing products that can be repaired, reused, recycled or composted at the end of their useful life
  • Use of recycled materials as feedstock in manufacturing
  • Use of non-toxic materials in manufacturing
  • Manufacturer’s support of programs to recycle or take back their products at the end of their life

Examples of Zero Waste strategies:

  • Converting from single use wooden pallets to reusable plastic pallets
  • Converting from single use carboard boxes or wooden crates to reusable shipping crates
  • Converting from disposable dishes to durable china
  • Converting from standard batteries to rechargeable batteries
  • Eliminating single use products
  • Eliminating unnecessary packaging
  • Converting to 100% recyclable products and packaging

Zero Waste Case Study: Toyota/GM (NUMMI)

Zero Waste Program Services:

Zero Waste

 

 
  • Complete waste generation analysis
  • Customized Zero Waste program design
  • Work with multiple departments in your organization:
    • Purchasing
    • Operations
    • Custodial
    • Food Service
    • Product Design
    • Packaging
  • Zero Waste program implementation
  • Implement organizational purchasing and policy changes
  • Locate reuse, recycling and composting markets
  • Customized container and sign selection
  • Staff training
  • Extend compliance to supply chain vendors
  • Meet or exceed L.E.E.D. requirements
  • Ongoing program management

Zero Waste Events:

Zero Waste Events
  1. Use zero waste principles at a stand-alone event
  2. Starting point for facility-wide zero waste program

Examples of Zero Waste Events:

  1. Conferences and workshops
  2. Trade shows
  3. Celebrations
  4. Sports and recreational events
  5. School functions
  6. Fairs and exhibits

Zero Waste Event Services:

  • Zero waste guidelines for vendors and staff
  • Container rental
  • Use of compostable plates, cups & utensils
  • Collection of compostable and recyclable items