What is zero waste?

Zero waste - there is no garbage. There are no landfills. There is no "away". All materials remain part of a closed loop system. In nature, nothing is wasted. Material from one organism becomes food for other organisms, maintaining the closed loop system. By mimicking the natural world, we identify new opportunities for triple bottom line success.

Currently, human society follows a linear take - make - waste process. This model is an end of the pipe solution.

Source: http://www.epea.com

The following model illustrates a process that eliminates waste from the very beginning by changing the way we think and design our products and services.

Zero Waste NEO Model

What are the benefits of zero waste strategy?
1. Save money and avoid costs
2. Reduce carbon footprint
3. Engage employees and inspire innovation
4. Create a great story to share with stakeholders
5. Discover new opportunities to integrate sustainable business practices
6. Differentiate your business in the marketplace

How do I get started?