Zero Waste in Practice: Theories, Tools, Trade-offs and Ground Realities

Abstract

As zero waste moves from slogan to practice, it’s timely to revisit the theory, the trade-offs, and the on-the-ground realities. This presentation revisits the underpinning principles and traces the idea’s evolution, reframing zero waste as a socio-technical transition rather than a downstream engineering solution—from frugal, repair-centred cultures to today’s throwaway economy and persistently low circularity. Going “beyond recycling,” it weighs the real trade-offs among diversion, incineration, and genuine circularity, grounding the discussion in case studies. From these lessons, it outlines a city-scale framework: a clear vision and taxonomy; staged, measurable targets; place-based priorities; innovation and incubation; monitoring and enforcement; enabling regulation; and broad stakeholder engagement. It argues that real progress depends on understanding the interconnections between zero waste, material circularity, energy, and emissions—essential for a just zero-waste, truly circular society.