The United States, which represents just 4% of the global population, produces a whopping 12% of global municipal solid waste. The life span of waste – from extraction to production to consumption to disposal – exacerbates climate change and threatens human health. Whether you are just getting started learning more about zero waste, or if you’re a seasoned pro, the facts can be sobering at times. Know the feeling? The good news is that you are not alone, and meaningful and proven solutions are all around. There’s no better time than now to trash that overwhelm, get motivated, and take action.
Let’s start with mindset. Imagine a thriving and healthy planet where clean air, water, and food are available to all, resources are thoughtfully used and reused, and the entire concept of waste is redefined. When you feel lost, take a break and reconnect to that vision or to whatever is driving you and giving you purpose. Reprioritize and bring the activities you feel are most impactful and meaningful to the top. Remember that progress and practice are more important than perfection and it’s important to dole out high fives as often as you want to celebrate your accomplishments.
For action, get started and keep going. Focus on doing what you can, with what you have, wherever you are on your journey. You can vote and advocate for solutions, justice, stewardship, and accountability. You can join alliances and networks, educate your community, change habits to help reduce your waste and carbon footprint, support the work of environmental groups, or choose your own adventure!
Though each of us has a role to play, it’s not all on your shoulders. With increased awareness of the connection between waste and climate change, we can see that zero waste solutions are gaining traction on a large scale. Municipalities are adopting zero waste goals and strategies. Policies that prioritize producer responsibility, climate change mitigation and environmental protection are making great strides, and we are seeing industries implementing efforts to be more sustainable.
Stay encouraged. Your unique voice is needed and powerful, and the actions you take to curb consumption and reduce waste have ripple effects to inspire others, compounding your impact. One change at a time does make a difference, so keep up the great work. We will continue to learn, engage, and participate together, tackling the ominous challenge of waste with resiliency.
In the Twin Cities? Hennepin County offers a personalized 8-month long Zero Waste Challenge for households. Apply for the upcoming session by August 31st.
Here are some additional amazing and free local county resources related to composting, repair, and proper waste disposal:
Composting
Hennepin County Backyard Composting Workshops (virtual on Zoom) are being held 9/13/24 and 9/24/24
Hennepin County Organics Pickup and Drop-off
Ramsey County Backyard Composting
Ramsey County Food Scraps Drop-Off
Repair
Hennepin County Fix-It Clinics
Waste Disposal
Hennepin County Green Disposal Guide
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