Some people are surprised to hear the term “Zero Waste”. They think it isn’t possible. It’s important to realize that the volume of waste we produce is a very recent problem and it’s time to look at nature for guidance! Nature, with all its genius, has developed a circular system where nothing is wasted. It’s time to realize that Zero Waste is possible, we just need to redesign our habits and systems to get there!
Today we challenge you to commit to waste reduction…commit to Zero Waste…and commit to a healthier and more just planet for ALL. Nkwanda Jah, Chair of the Alachua County NAACP Environmental and Climate Justice Committee says it best in her poem “Whatever”. You can view her powerful words below.
The Zero Waste International Alliance defines Zero Waste:
“Zero Waste: The conservation of all resources by means of responsible production, consumption, reuse, and recovery of products, packaging, and materials without burning and with no discharges to land, water, or air that threaten the environment or human health.”
“For any community, business, institution, family, or individual, achieving Zero Waste means that at least 90% of their generated waste is eliminated through reduction efforts and diversion (refuse, reduce, reuse, recycle, rot). This is accomplished by changing our relationships with everything we consume, from everyday items to food, with the understanding and acknowledgment that it all comes from precious resources derived from Earth”.
— Amanda Waddle, Director of Zero Waste at The Repurpose Project
Zero Waste Week 2021 was organized by The Repurpose Project, Life Unplastic, and Zero Waste Gainesville. The event runs from January 24-30th, 2021 and you must register here to participate in the free film showings and live zoom events. If you are viewing this after the actual event, you are in luck!! We are leaving relevant information and links on our website so you can decide to do Zero Waste Week whenever you want! You can speed through the entire week in one day, follow along with each day for a week, or space each days activity as you have time! Thank you for participating and wanting to live a more sustainable and Zero Waste life!
We recommend starting your week with this eye opening and beautifully made film.
“Honest, revealing and urgent, David Attenborough: A Life On Our Planet is a powerful first-hand account of humanity’s impact on nature and a message of hope for future generations.”
— www.wwf.org
