Promoting Sustainable Livelihoods | Devoted Environmental Scientist | GIS Analyst | R | GEE | EHS | NEBOSH
This makes alot of sense! We need to come up with a "Waste Reduction Hierarchy" where we can promote a more sustainable approach by emphasizing the importance of preventing and minimizing waste before resorting to disposal methods. For instance: 1. Prevention (Most Preferred): Actions to avoid or minimize the generation of waste. 2. Minimization: Reducing the amount of waste generated. 3. Reuse: Utilizing products or materials again without significant processing. 4. Recycling: Transforming waste materials into new products. 5. Disposal (Least Preferred): Safely disposing of the remaining waste.
Sustainability Consultant @ Kearney | MS Sustainability Management from Columbia | Circularity Champion
I love being an enthusiastic ambassador of circularity, but I am often frustrated by how often the "circular conversation" is dominated by talk of recycling. Yes - this is an important tool in reducing environmental impact, but it is by no means the best one. Let's be real: the promise of recyclability keeps wasteful producers in business. Recycling allows us to put off meaningfully examining how we produce and consume goods. Recycling is a comfy green light that lets us continue driving in the wrong direction. So in 2024, I challenge you (whoever you are and whatever your business is) to think about reducing waste across the lifespan of your product or service. Can it be designed differently? Can it be sourced or constructed differently? Can it be shipped differently? How can you extend a product's lifespan or refurbish it for further use? Can you find additional uses for the product or its components at the end of its life? Humans invented the idea of waste - we have the power to evolve past it. #circularity #circulareconomy #sustainability #esg #corporatesustainability