Zero Waste New Jersey – Your Guide to How NJ is Working Towards Zero Waste
In 2017, New Jersey generated 23,377,508 tons of waste, of which about 60% was recycled—a figure that the Garden State has reason to be proud of when compared to other cities and states in the US. However, that figure falls to just 40% when looking at municipal solid waste (MSW) which is far short of the 70%…Read More…
The Kitchen Chemist – Zero-Waste Cleaning Recipes
When it comes to cleaning your kitchen, the products we use on a daily basis are far from “clean”. In fact, not only do many big-brand cleaning products contain chemicals that are harmful to the environment and human health, but they’re almost always packaged in plastic or contain plastics. The good news, however, is that…Read More…
Differences Between Zero Waste and Composting
Zero waste is one of the most effective strategies we have for creating a more sustainable environment. Preventing packaging, products, and used items from being thrown out helps to minimize landfill, conserve natural resources, and prevent unnecessary pollution in the local area. Although incredibly effective, a zero-waste approach is not always easy to achieve. Whether…Read More…
The Creative Cook – Zero-Waste Dinner Recipes
When it comes to zero-waste dining, there’s plenty of skepticism as to how achievable it might be, particularly considering the kitchen is usually the place that we generate the most waste—both organic and packaging waste. For many people, the “zero” component of zero waste cannot be reconciled when we consider the amount of plastic, cardboard,…Read More…
Zero-Waste Communities Across the Globe
For the zero-waste system to make the greatest impact, it needs to work for everyone—on scales both large and small. Unfortunately, it’s often perceived as a lifestyle choice for those who have the time and money to invest in the right habits and products. The reality is there are communities of all sizes and economic…Read More…
7 Zero-Waste Alternatives for Everyday Items We Can’t Live Without
It’s an undeniable fact that many of the disposable products we use every day are incredibly convenient and practical, making our busy lives easier. Whether at home or in the office, in a shared kitchen or private bathroom, the ability to cook, clean, and take care of our personal hygiene is something that no one…Read More…
Zero-Waste Policy and Legislation
For many people, zero waste is often seen as a grassroots initiative, with communities and individuals taking personal responsibility for waste reduction on varying scales. This is perhaps best illustrated in the surge in popularity of the zero-waste lifestyle movement, most notably with programs like the mason jar challenge or consumer-led initiatives designed to cut…Read More…
Veles: Compost, Cleaning, and Circularity
Veles — Finding Innovative Solutions in Circular Manufacturing To tackle the “take, make, dispose” production of everyday goods and focus on true circularity, there needs to be a shift away from linear manufacturing, which is sending valuable resources and dangerous chemicals through our homes and into the trash. Instead, there needs to be a focus…Read More…
Zero Waste Boston — Your Guide to How Boston is Building a Zero Waste City
Between residents, businesses, and institutions, the City of Boston generates around 1,156,000 tons of waste every year, with only 25% diverted from landfill—a full 12% lower than the national average. For Bostonians, the news gets worse, and in fact, of the 874,000 tons sent to incinerators and landfills, an estimated 75% is potentially recyclable or…Read More…
Zero Waste Chicago — Your Guide to How Chicago is Working Towards Zero Waste
In 2019, the recycling rate in Chicago stood at just 8.28% according to city statistics. This falls far short of the national recycling rate of 32.1%, and even further behind other cities in the US, some of which boast recycling rates of 70% or higher. However, unlike other cities in the US, Chicago hasn’t yet implemented its own recognizable zero waste…Read More…