TRUE Zero Waste
Issuing Organization:
Green Business Certification Inc. (GBCI)
Label purpose:
TRUE (Total Resource Use and Efficiency) Zero Waste certification program is designed to help businesses and facilities achieve their zero waste goals and operate more sustainably. The certification aims to minimize the facility's environmental impact by diverting all end-use material from the landfill, incineration (waste-to-energy), and the environment. TRUE Zero Waste certification emphasizes the importance of rethinking how resources are used, encouraging a shift towards sustainable, circular economy practices.
Certification Criteria:
Facilities seeking TRUE Zero Waste certification must achieve a minimum of 90% waste diversion from landfill, incineration (waste-to-energy), and the environment for a minimum of 12 consecutive months. The program encourages waste reduction, reuse, recycling, and composting with additional points awarded for leadership initiatives such as zero waste purchasing policies, upstream management, and innovative practices that extend beyond waste diversion.
Geographical Coverage:
Facilities seeking TRUE Zero Waste certification must achieve a minimum of 90% waste diversion from landfill, incineration (waste-to-energy), and the environment for a minimum of 12 consecutive months. The program encourages waste reduction, reuse, recycling, and composting with additional points awarded for leadership initiatives such as zero waste purchasing policies, upstream management, and innovative practices that extend beyond waste diversion.
Target Industries/Segments:
The certification is applicable to any facility or business seeking to reduce its waste footprint, including manufacturing plants, office buildings, universities, hospitals, and municipal facilities, among others.
Certification Process:
Facilities must register with TRUE Zero Waste, conduct a waste audit to establish a baseline diversion rate, and then implement strategies to increase diversion and meet the certification criteria. After achieving the required diversion rate for 12 consecutive months, facilities submit documentation for review. An onsite assessment may be required to verify practices and achievements.
Certificate Validity:
Certification is valid for three years, after which facilities must recertify to demonstrate continued compliance with TRUE Zero Waste criteria and ongoing commitment to zero waste goals.
Benefits for Consumers/Producers:
Facilities achieving TRUE Zero Waste certification demonstrate environmental leadership and commitment to sustainability, which can enhance brand reputation, engage employees, reduce waste management costs, and support community health and well-being. For consumers and clients, the certification provides assurance that they are supporting businesses that prioritize sustainability and resource efficiency.
Sustainability Impact:
TRUE Zero Waste certification drives positive environmental outcomes by encouraging the adoption of zero waste practices, reducing greenhouse gas emissions associated with landfill and incineration, conserving natural resources, and supporting local economies through composting and recycling programs. By promoting the principles of a circular economy, TRUE Zero Waste certification contributes to broader sustainability goals and environmental stewardship.
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