What is Towards Zero Waste?

When moving Towards Zero Waste (TZW) one gives careful consideration to the products used in their business and where they might end up afterwards. The goal is to reduce our impact by minimizing the resources needed within the food service industry, ultimately reducing the amount of waste sent to the landfill.


It is estimated that approximately one third of all food grown in the United States is wasted each year, a portion of that being within the food service sector. Food service businesses also create waste through food packaging, food service ware, etc. Significant amounts of waste contribute to polluted ecosystems and unnecessary consumption of resources.


Reducing waste not only frees up space in our landfill but mitigates climate change through reducing emissions and conserves natural resources. In additon, waste reduction, especially food waste reduction, can decrease business costs while having enormous community and environmental benefits. Planning in this manner may result in items being recycled, composted or avoided altogether.