Why Zero Waste
The global waste sector is the third largest emissions source of methane gas – a potent greenhouse gas that causes rapid global warming.
From extracting raw materials to discarding products, our current take-make-dispose economic model generates vast amounts of waste. Much of this waste ends up in overburdened landfills, where it releases methane into the atmosphere, contributing significantly to global warming.
In response to this growing crisis, zero waste offers a strategic, viable, and versatile approach to climate change mitigation. By reducing waste sent to landfills, we can lower methane emissions and create safer, more sustainable environments for all.
“Zero waste is both a goal and a plan of action. The goal is to ensure resource recovery and protect scarce natural resources by ending waste disposal in incinerators, dumps, and landfills. The plan encompasses waste reduction, composting, recycling and reuse, changes in consumption habits, and industrial redesign. But just as importantly, zero waste is a revolution in the relationship between waste and people. It is a new way of thinking that aims to safeguard the health and improve the lives of everyone who produces, handles, works with, or is affected by waste—in other words, all of us.”
(GAIA’s On the Road to Zero Waste report)
Zero waste practices drive sustainability, health, and job creation.
Zero waste solutions can operate locally in closed-loop systems, such as turning food waste from fresh markets into compost for nearby urban farms. At a larger scale, zero waste strategies can integrate waste pickers into municipal systems, securing livelihoods and social protections while diverting recyclables from landfills.
As an effective urban strategy, zero waste protects public health and vital infrastructure by preventing waste from blocking sewage and water systems. This helps reduce flooding, minimizes costly repairs, and mitigates health risks, contributing to a more resilient and sustainable city.
Importantly, zero waste contributes to job creation both formally and informally, providing opportunities for waste pickers, recyclers, and small enterprises while also creating jobs in municipal waste services, composting, and other circular economy industries.
“Zero waste strategies help societies to produce and consume goods while respecting ecological limits and the rights of communities; they ensure that all discarded materials are safely and sustainably returned to nature or manufacturing.”
(GAIA’s On the Road to Zero Waste report)
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African cities are hubs of innovation and dynamic social connections, but they also face deep social and economic inequality.
Zero waste approaches in this context must include considerations of justice! Many African cities are under-resourced, and solutions that are capital or technology intensive, common in the Global North, are not always feasible.
Despite this, Africa has innovative zero waste solutions. Across the continent, communities and organisations are developing frugal, creative, and sustainable zero waste solutions. This website highlights examples of these initiatives, encouraging us to learn from each other as we work towards a zero waste future.
