Citizens make change at home, at school, at work and as customers. But it can’t stop there. City staff and elected officials around the world tell us: “Zero Waste won’t come to our town until the public stands up and demands it.” So there you have it, your marching orders. Local governments need an educated, informed public to push for Zero Waste and to keep the process transparent, accountable and moving.
What Does It Take to Create Change?
Every Zero Waste success story begins with one person who wanted a recycling bin in their classroom, their office or town park. Or one person who wanted to help their community start composting or stop using plastic bags.
As one person, you may not have all the answers. That’s okay. When you care enough to learn more, to talk to other people about a solution – that’s when the ripple starts.
Everyone has a role to play in making change.
Anyone can start a ripple of change—as a citizen, as a business owner, as a government official or public staff. But it’s only when these three groups work together that the ripple grows into community-wide change for a Zero Waste future.
Take Action
Creating change sounds challenging, right? We’re here to help with simplified and “bite sized” tools and campaigns to help you get moving. And, we have new tools coming out all the time, so tell us what you need.
Whether you are a local government official, an engaged citizen, or a local business, you can help grow recycling and composting, reduce waste, build new community infrastructure and change the rules to integrate Zero Waste into every part of your community.
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Tools to Get Moving
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Adopt a Zero Waste goal.
A public Zero Waste resolution is a defining moment that will mobilize citizens, businesses and government leaders to take action. Make today the day you embark on a new path to eliminate waste.
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Community organizing for Zero Waste.
Citizens and government working together is the key to transforming our throwaway society. Use these steps to create an effective community group that empowers government and creates real change in the community.
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Make your events Zero Waste.
Small backyard party, corporate meeting, community festival—whatever the occasion, find the resources you need to make it waste-free.
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Make room for recycling in new buildings.
Don’t let the lack of space in commercial buildings hold you back from recycling. With an equal space policy, all new buildings are required to designate adequate space for recycling bins.
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Reduce and recover food waste.
Educate your community about reducing food waste, start a food recovery organization, expand curbside composting and more.
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Ditch disposable bags in your town.
Cut disposable bag use by 70% almost overnight by implementing a fee on both paper and plastic bags. We’ve gathered the best resources to help you succeed.
Take Action
Tell us what you need
Our tool library is growing! Help us prioritize which tools to offer by telling us what resources you need to succeed in your community.