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Six Sustainable Changes to Make for Zero Waste Week

Learn how you can embrace sustainability in honor of Zero Waste Week, September 2–8.

Patti Toews is a provider of sustainability and waste management solutions for APTIM’s local and state government clients. She focuses on new and existing regulatory challenges and issues.THIS WEEK’S CONTRIBUTOR:
Patti Toews, Sustainability & Waste Minimization Business Leader
APTIM | Environmental Compliance & Sustainability
Patti.Toews@APTIM.com
Patti Toews is a provider of sustainability and waste management solutions for APTIM’s local and state government clients. She focuses on new and existing regulatory challenges and issues. Learn more about Patti here.

 

 

Six Sustainable Changes to Make for Zero Waste Week

Welcome to Zero Waste Week 2024! This annual event, celebrated from September 2–8, encourages individuals and communities worldwide to rethink their consumption habits and embrace sustainable practices. Whether you’re new to the zero-waste lifestyle or a seasoned eco-warrior, this week presents an opportunity to make a positive impact on our planet.

Why Zero Waste Week Matters

Zero Waste Week is not just a trend; it’s a crucial initiative in our collective efforts to combat climate change and reduce environmental pollution. The concept is simple yet powerful: minimize waste generation by reusing, recycling, composting, and refusing single-use plastics and other disposable items. By doing so, we conserve resources, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and protect wildlife habitats.

Sustainable Changes for Zero Waste Week

Participating in Zero Waste Week doesn’t require drastic changes overnight. Small, everyday actions can add up to significant positive impacts. Here are some practical steps you can take:

  1. Refuse Single-Use Plastics: Say no to plastic straws, bags, and bottles. Opt for reusable alternatives like stainless steel or glass containers.
  2. Reduce Food Waste: Plan meals, shop with a list, and store food properly to minimize waste. Use leftovers creatively or compost food scraps.
  3. Go Paperless: Opt for digital communications and billing to reduce paper consumption. When printing is necessary, use both sides of the paper.
  4. Choose Sustainable Products: Support businesses that prioritize sustainability. Look for products with minimal packaging or made from recycled materials.
  5. Compost: Start a compost bin for organic waste like fruit and vegetable scraps. Composting enriches soil and reduces methane emissions from landfills.
  6. Spread Awareness: Share your journey on social media using #ZeroWasteWeek to inspire others and amplify the message of sustainability.

Zero Waste Week Events and Education

Throughout Zero Waste Week, communities organize events such as workshops, film screenings, and swap meets to educate and engage participants. Check local listings or organize your own event to connect with like-minded individuals and learn new ways to reduce waste. Zero Waste USA also has virtual events for you to choose from.

This week is also an opportunity to educate ourselves and others about the environmental impact of our choices. Learn about the lifecycle of products and the importance of a circular economy. Inspire friends, family, and colleagues to join you in adopting sustainable practices.

You can email me directly at Patti.Toews@APTIM.com for answers to your questions and to learn more about APTIM’s environmental and sustainability solutions.

APTIM Celebrates Zero Waste Week

As we celebrate Zero Waste Week 2024, let’s commit to making lasting changes that benefit our planet and future generations. Every action, no matter how small, contributes to a cleaner, healthier environment. As formalized in our Climate Transition Plan, and as part of our alignment with the Science Based Targets Initiative and The Climate Pledge, APTIM is committed to reaching net zero greenhouse gas emissions across our value chain by 2040. Join us from September 2–8 as we embrace the challenge and pave the way for a more sustainable future. Together, we can achieve a world where waste is minimized, resources are conserved, and sustainability is a way of life.

APTIM. In Pursuit of Better.

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