GAIA Zero Waste MasterPlan - Flipbook - Page 31
Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives (GAIA) 31
CREATING A ZERO WASTE PLAN
•
Build zero waste infrastructure: investments in
local infrastructure that invigorates reuse and
reduction efforts and provides for disassembly,
recycling or composting at the end of a product’s
life can build a circular economy, create jobs, and
open opportunities for economic development.
•
Ban disposables and create reuse/refill systems:
eliminating single-use disposable packaging
and foodware and replacing them with reusable/
refillable alternatives is a straightforward strategy
to reduce waste at the source.
•
Support zero waste businesses: assisting
businesses in embracing zero waste practices and
supporting businesses that provide zero waste
goods or services is instrumental to the success of
a zero waste plan.
•
Lead by example and build zero waste
institutions: leveraging the purchasing power
of local governments and other institutions can
create local markets for zero waste products and
services, shift a substantial portion of municipal
waste streams, and serve as a model for citywide
change.
•
Write zero waste contracts: cities can follow
best practices to draft recycling contracts that
increase transparency, promote waste reduction
and diversion, and support workers’ welfare.
•
Encourage source separation and waste
reduction: reducing and separating waste at
the source is a necessary part of minimizing
waste streams and ensuring that discards are
uncontaminated and prepared for reuse, recycling,
and compost.
©United Workers
The road to zero waste
is long, but there are
many friends and allies
along the way. Zero waste
advocates, policymakers,
and sustainability managers
can become a part of a
worldwide network to share
ideas, information and
resources.
