Zero Waste at Chico State

Zero waste mimics natural cycles where materials are not simply discarded but recovered for beneficial use. The internationally accepted definition of zero waste states that at least 90% of total solid waste generated, measured by weight, is diverted from landfills through reduction, redesign, reuse, recycling, and composting. To reach true zero waste, emphasis must be placed on eliminating waste before it occurs rather than relying on recycling and composting.

We must still ensure that items that cannot be designed out or reused are recycled or composted correctly.  Below you will find resources to help you make the best zero waste decisions while on campus, out in the community, and at home. 

        "If it can't be reduced, reused, repaired, rebuilt, refurbished, refinished, resold, recycled, or composted then it should be restricted, redesigned, or removed from production." ~Pete Seeger