Published: 4th March 2024
Read time: 3 min
Recap: Waste Around the World Webinar
On February 27th, we took a trip around the world to hear inspiring zero waste stories from the comfort of our own homes. Our first ‘Waste Around the World” webinar brought together sustainability heroes from all corners of the earth - Senegal, the USA and Pakistan. Each panellist shared their own unique experiences and insights as well as actionable strategies towards achieving a zero waste and circular future.
The webinar highlighted the transformative potential of circular economy initiatives, emphasising that solutions to waste management require global insights applied within local contexts. And these stories need to be told and heard!
Sustainable Materials Management (California, USA)
Our first panellist, Jon Huls of SWEEP, highlighted the fragmented approach to waste management in the USA, and introduced us to the SWEEP standard, which aims to transform materials management from waste to resource management. This innovative approach highlights the necessity of a national strategy organically grown from grassroots efforts.
Fighting Plastic Pollution (Senegal)
Representing Zero Waste Senegal Association, Momar Baby, shared his compelling story of their fight against single-use plastic (SUP) pollution. They are focusing on preventative actions such as SUP bans and reusable trials as well as community engagement. These recently launched projects have demonstrated the power of local actions in the wider global plastic pollution challenge.
Innovative Recycling & Employee Engagement (USA - global reach)
Lael Giebel, the Global Manager of Sustainability at Knowbe4, presented some amazing initiatives for waste management strategies. From banner bag programs to employee courtesy recycling. A staggering 97% of employees have signed the pledge to reduce their waste organisation-wide. Her initiatives divert waste from landfills, but also foster a culture of sustainability within the organisation.
Zero Waste University (Pakistan)
Aman Karim, an associate professor with the National University of Medical Sciences (NUMS), shared his inspiring journey of becoming the first university in Pakistan to adopt a zero waste policy. Since adoption, NUMS has managed to reduce its waste to landfill by a staggering 75%! This achievement shows the power of volunteerism and community involvement in driving significant environmental change. His vision now is set on persuading all Pakistani universities to adopt a zero waste policy, setting a global standard for universities across the globe.
Our first “Waste Around the World” webinar highlighted the importance of storytelling in spreading the zero waste and circular economy messages. Each speaker’s story served as a testament to the impact that informed and passionate people can have on their communities, no matter their role within the organisation. Our path to sustainability is a collective journey, and by embracing each other’s solutions, fostering a sense of community and connection and championing zero waste, we can succeed in tackling the global plastic crisis.
Be sure to catch the full recording of the webinar here!
Subscribe to our newsletter for all things circular business!
The Waste Not Spot recognises the many traditional land owners around the world and their continued stewardship of our planet. We pay our respects and offer our deepest gratitude.
© 2024 The Waste Not Spot
VAT: NL004935072B46
COC: 92078303
Get social
