What does "zero waste" mean?

"Zero waste" embodies a philosophy that focuses on encouraging the reuse of products and actively avoiding landfilling waste. This approach promotes a systemic shift in how society thinks about products, from their production to disposal.

The core idea is to design waste out of the system, which involves not only recycling but also rethinking the lifecycle of products to maximize their utility and lifespan. It emphasizes reducing, reusing, and recycling materials to create a closed-loop system where resources are continuously repurposed rather than discarded. By doing so, zero waste advocates strive to minimize environmental impact and enhance sustainability.

This concept is broader than simply achieving no waste at the household level or increasing production efficiency, as it encompasses a holistic movement toward sustainable living that involves community engagement, policy advocacy, and behavioral change at various levels.