Our current system of manufacturing places the responsibility of the disposal of products with the consumer. Instead of the end-of-the-line disposal of products, the Zero Waste principle focuses on a “whole system” approach to waste management.
A whole system approach is one where manufacturers take on the responsibility for the life and disposal of their product rather than leaving it solely to the consumer.
Leftover food and paper waste produced by take-out contribute to large amounts of waste being sent to the landfill.
By adopting a zero waste mentality, the food service industry can significantly reduce this unnecessary trash. This not only decreases the amount of waste going to landfills, but can also save restaurants money.
Builders, contractors, architects and engineers can all work together to reduce the amount of waste produced by construction and demolition. By keeping the Zero Waste mentality in mind during planning, projects can generate smaller amounts of waste and increase the amount of materials that can be recycled.
Visit the Construction and Demolition Materials page to learn how you can recycle C&D materials.
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Zero waste isn’t just about recycling, it’s about being conscious of your lifestyle and how it affects your health, your community and your environment. This full-circle approach to smarter consumption means that every step along the way makes a difference. Read on to see how you can contribute to a greener, waste-free world and make an impact that lasts for generations. Be sure to visit the What is Zero Waste section of the Irvine website for more information.
Zero waste is a fresh approach to waste management and the use of resources. It goes beyond the “end-of-the-line” treatment of waste and promotes not only the three “R’s” (reduce, reuse, recycle), but also focuses on a “whole system” approach to the use of resources.