Zero Waste

Definitions

Zero waste is interpreted in significantly different ways. The literal definition is less-commonly used: it refers to the complete absence of waste. The problem with this definition is based on simple science: all living organisms produce waste as part of their processes, and it is not conceivable that humans could be an exception to this rule. As long as humans continue to exist on Earth, they are going to generate wastes of some sort and amount. For this reason, most zero waste initiatives are based upon more metaphorical definitions of the term.

Local governments embarking upon zero waste initiatives often use the term zero waste to suggest a goal of minimizing waste. Present levels of waste are universally understood to be too high, so this means that even if some residual waste levels are unavoidable, then there must be some very significant reduction in waste in order to achieve zero waste.

Other jurisdictions have been more specific, though. A commonly declared zero waste goal is “zero waste to landfill,” which implicitly allows for residual wastes that might be dealt with via recycling—but perhaps also via other processes, such as incineration, which are also inherently problematic.

Whichever definition of the term is used, the common theme of zero waste thinking is that of a paradigm shift, from the traditional view that waste is merely an external by-product of a one-way, linear system, to one where waste is instead viewed as a resource that is part of a closed-loop system. In this respect, all waste management practices that “close the loop” to any extent, such as reuse or recycling of materials, can be thought of as being zero waste practices.

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