Zero Waste Pledge: How It Works

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The ZERO by FIFTY Pledge enables businesses and different organizations in Missoula to publicly declare their goal of reaching zero waste by 2050. Businesses pledge to reduce the amount of waste they produce within the year and are then recognized for their efforts.

PROCESS

  • A waste audit is conducted of the business to assess and collect data on three waste streams: true trash*, compostables, and recyclables.

  • Data is compiled into a detailed report containing a breakdown of the waste stream, contamination rates* of each waste stream, the current landfill diversion rate, and tangible suggestions on how to reduce waste for the coming year.

  • Business decides on 2-3 actions to take to reduce overall waste generation.

  • Business is provided with window decals to display to their community their involvement in the program, recognition here on the ZERO by FIFTY website, and any additional consulting that might be needed to effectively implement the pledge goals.

WANT TO TAKE THE PLEDGE? Click here

*True Trash= waste items meant to be in a landfill

*Contamination= Many items can be considered contaminants. Contamination happens when non-recyclable items are mixed in with recyclables items, or when compostable items (food waste) make it into the landfill bin. Preventing contamination of recyclables is critical, as it can cause those items to end up in the landfill rather than a recycling facility.