The Zero Waste International Alliance (ZWIA) announces the release of Version 8.1 of the Zero Waste Hierarchy of Highest and Best Use. This update was developed through the collective input and expertise of Zero Waste organizations and leaders worldwide, offering refined guidance to advance effective Zero Waste policies and strategies. The refined Hierarchy introduces key improvements that enhance the Hierarchy鈥檚 effectiveness as a leading tool for developing Zero Waste policies, programs and strategies worldwide. 鈥淭hese updates provide essential insights to address current issues, including chemical recycling and working toward a circular economy,鈥� said Gary Liss, Chair of the Zero Waste Certification Committee
This update reinforces the Zero Waste Hierarchy as a critical resource in advancing sustainable material use and waste reduction efforts globally. By adopting Version 8.1, ZWIA aims to provide greater clarity and direction for organizations and communities working toward a Zero Waste future. 鈥淭he Zero Waste Hierarchy provides a critical understanding of policies to ensure global alignment with the term 鈥榋ero Waste鈥�,鈥漵ays聽Jamie Kaminski, Committee Chair of the Zero Waste Hierarchy Working Group.
鈥淐onserving resources is our goal; the hierarchy provides a model,鈥� says Richard Anthony, President of ZWIA.
Key updates in Version 8.1 include:
- Enhanced language in the guiding principle of Do Not Export Harm, to ensure that harmful materials are not sent to regions or facilities that cannot properly handle them, with regard to environmental and health standards.
- Addition of a new principle, Do No Harm, to guide organizations in minimizing the negative social and environmental impacts of materials and discards throughout their lifecycle.
- Technical refinements to definitions surrounding circular economy, closed-loop systems, composting, and recycling, ensuring clarity and consistency in application.
This update was developed in collaboration with leading international Zero Waste organizations, including Zero Waste International Alliance (ZWIA), Zero Waste Canada (ZWC), Zero Waste British Columbia (ZWBC), Zero Waste Europe (ZWE), GAIA, and the Energy Justice Network. Additionally, it was shared with the global Zero Waste network for review and comments to ensure comprehensive insights and enhancement.
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