Source: Zero Waste Network
The Zero Waste Network is expanding to become Zero Waste Aotearoa so we can better achieve our goal of building a waste free future together.
Our updated name reflects the evolving scope of our work. We’ve gone from being a small group of committed people twenty years ago, to a nationwide network of 130+ member organisations employing thousands, to today when we are increasing our own business and project capability and advancing high-level advocacy work locally, nationally and internationally.
“We are acutely aware that Aotearoa NZ is falling behind other similar countries in dealing with our waste. It’s time to catch up. Across the globe, innovative waste reduction solutions are being put in place that are having immediate, dramatic and beneficial impacts on large waste streams. Our organisation will be creating and pushing for the kind of solutions that are wanted and needed,” said General Manager Dorte Wray.
“Globally, there is a strong movement among business, industry and government towards circular economic models that design out waste and pollution and keep valuable resources in use. Zero waste models offer significant community economic benefits, climate solutions and environmental protections.”
“One small example of the kind of solutions we want is the container return scheme. In Tasmania, 20 million containers have been returned just three months after it launched – that’s an average of 220,000 containers every day as the community gets behind the initiative.”
“We believe that there is a fantastic opportunity to become a zero waste nation with the right leadership in place to drive the necessary change. We must have the right settings to achieve the outcomes we want. We have a whole world of good examples and ideas to draw upon, alongside brilliant indigenous solutions that are specific and appropriate for this land.”
“Our member organisations are delivering amazing benefits in communities up and down the country every day from Kaitaia to Invercargill. We are building community resilience, economic opportunities, dignified employment and environmental care. We can have a zero waste Aotearoa with beneficial outcomes for all.”
Join us for our annual hui in Tāmaki Makaurau/Auckland where we will celebrate 25 years of building a waste free future together. Tickets are still available for a fantastic three-day event, visit https://hui.zerowaste.co.nz/ for further information.
