Zero Waste is Good for the Bottom Line

The concept of zero waste aims to rethink the way we consume materials, not as individuals, but as whole communities. It requires that everything that goes into making a product can be recycled and reused. It’s a common misconception that to produce something new we must create waste. We should be working towards the goal of zero waste, because not only is the current system inefficient, it’s costly, and dangerous to the health of the general population and to the environment.

For businesses, it makes sense to seek an alternative to the costs incurred due to waste each year. Responsible waste disposal is expensive and is becoming more costly as time goes on. A zero waste system is a long-term solution that allows companies to take the waste that would traditionally be sent to a landfill and give it new value as reusable materials like compost or low-cost building materials.

Zero waste is an achievable goal. It is an opportunity for us to live more efficiently and sustainably. But, it requires that we act as one. Federal grants that support business and community action will provide the needed incentive to make zero waste a reality. This policy is good for the bottom line and with the help of some sound policy businesses can start to save money while contributing to a healthy environment.