UN Sustainable Goals
Plastic is so prevalent that it would be difficult to replace it but waste from single-use plastic is just one manifestation of the problem of overconsumption. From unsustainable extraction of raw materials to single-use plastics to food wastage, the practice of deliberate and mindful waste prevention upheld by the Zero Waste Movement offers an alternative to mindless overconsumption that generates excessive waste.
The UN’s 17 Sustainable Goals can serve as a measure of the impact potential of the Zero Waste Movement. 3 (of the 9 highlighted) goals in particular can be directly achieved through living or advocating for zero waste:
Decent Work and Economic Growth
The advocacy for zero waste champions a more sustainable economy where environmental degradation is kept to a minimum. From production to consumption to waste recovery and disposal, zero waste means allowing for economic growth but not at the expense of the environment.
Responsible Consumption and Production
This is the essence of the zero waste movement, where individuals need to practice deliberate consumption but also for governments and businesses to play their role in responsible production. For consumers, this means buying what you need and being held accountable for how you manage your waste. For businesses, this means improvements in the production process to minimise the environmental impacts.
Partnerships for the Goals
Governments, businesses and individuals have a bi-directional influence on one another. Policies layout the groundwork for what is permissible for businesses and individuals through incentives, disincentives, bans and other legislative regulations. Through these legislations, businesses can be held accountable for production and individuals encouraged to practice more environmental practices. Businesses are largely involved for manufacturing of goods that individuals consume but they can influence the government through third-party processes, such as, collaborations and infrastructure support. Individuals are largely subject to the top-down affordances made available by governments and businesses. Importantly, individuals can have a bottom-up influence by directly urging governments and businesses for more accessible zero waste alternatives or indirectly by supporting government initiatives and businesses that are zero waste.
| Individual Action can make a Difference | Zero Waste Movement |