Finding the pathway to Zero Waste can be a challenge for a business or institution, particularly if waste reduction is not a priority in and of itself. In some cases, the impetus—and assistance—must come from outside. This session will feature three case studies that demonstrate how to support businesses and institutions in adopting and operationalizing Zero Waste systems.
Spoonfuls’ Erin Ash, Senior Director of Programs, will explain how the non-profit organization has helped businesses create the systems required for food recovery to succeed. In doing so, Spoonfuls has expanded its reach and impact, growing from a single food recovery route in Greater Boston to the largest food recovery operation in New England, both in terms of pounds recovered and towns and people reached through its deliveries.
The Minnesota Technical Assistance Program assists organizations throughout the state of Minnesota with pollution prevention (P2) services. Part of these services include assisting businesses with waste reduction technical assistance and reuse via the Minnesota Materials Exchange (MME), which MnTAP runs. MnTAP representatives will share best practice recommendations from a waste reduction project with a printing/paper packaging manufacturer and a procurement and reuse project with a statewide government healthcare agency.
These efforts are helping build the protocols necessary for systemic change. Learn how to support Zero Waste communities by leveraging the power of non-profit and grant-funded organizations in support of businesses and institutions.
Moderator: Jon Schroeder, Sustainable Materials Management Specialist, MnTAP
Speakers:
Erin Ash, Senior Director of Programs Spoonfuls
Sining Liu, Summer Solid Waste Intern, MnTAP
Samuel Edlund, Summer Solid Waste Intern, MnTAP