Global Zero Waste

Leaders in the innovation and implementation of Circular Economy models

Transforming resource management towards a sustainable future.

Who we are

We are an international NGO leading innovation and implementation of the circular economy through the Zero Waste model, building synergies between the public sector, the private sector and civil society.

We deliver sustainable solutions through technical tools grounded in research and innovation, specialised education and project development.

Presentation of the Global Zero Waste Standard to a technical team

What drives us

Why we exist, where we are heading and the tools we work with.

Mission

To promote the Zero Waste model worldwide through circular economy solutions.

Vision

By 2030, to be an international organisation recognised for its leadership and impact in generating solutions for sustainability and the circular economy.

How we do it

With technical tools grounded in research and innovation, specialised education and project development.

Our value proposition

The pillars that guide our impact on integrated, circular resource management.

Technical tools

We provide technical tools within the Global Zero Waste Standard, validated and certified by third-party conformity assessment experts.

Alignment with the SDGs

We contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through the measurement and traceability of materials for circularity.

Global connectivity

We connect the world with organisations, communities and professionals specialised in the Zero Waste model.

Capacity building

We build technical and management skills to improve the performance of leaders and technical teams in organisations and communities under the Zero Waste model.

Technology

We work to bring in and connect technologies for the continuous improvement of material flow efficiency and solid waste management.

Support

We accompany every step of the process of embedding Zero Waste tools in organisations and communities.

Our history

From citizen initiatives in Bogotá to an international circular economy standard.

2008
First initiatives
Citizen initiatives emerge around the closure of the Doña Juana landfill in Bogotá, with campaigns such as «desembólsate», «volver al canasto» and «métale el hombro al escombro».
2012
The NGO is established
A Non-Governmental Organisation is established, focused on developing socio-environmental projects in cities.
2018
Certification with ICONTEC
The Zero Waste Management System Certification is launched with the international standardisation and certification body ICONTEC.
2020
The scope goes global
With Colombia a reference country for circular economy in Latin America and the Caribbean, the scope of the service lines expands worldwide.
2022
Global Zero Waste Standard
The Global Zero Waste Standard is consolidated as an international circular economy and Zero Waste tool.