Zero Waste: The Next Industrial Revolution

Here's a weighty report, a working document towards a Zero Waste plan for New York City.

The Grassroots Recycling Network provides a good chunk of information on Zero Waste practices, and businesses that have adopted them. As does the Zero Waste Alliance.

I've said this before: the SBA says, "small businesses employ about half of the private sector work force, (and) produce about half of private sector output".

So to achieve Zero Waste, we have to engage half of the workforce. We're not going for 50% waste!

I'm looking for a Zero Waste guide for small businesses -- and particularly small service businesses...but thus far I haven't found one. I'll keep digging around.

If I can't find a one, I'll write it myself!

One Plastic Bag

Since the New Year, I've stepped up my commitment to avoid taking plastic bags from grocery stores, etc. I've been using a couple of tote bags.

I've only had to take one small plastic bag so far; a saleswoman at Macy's insisted that I couldn't just put my (small) purchase in my purse. I figured she was trying to adhere to a store policy, and didn't press her.

Now, I've been using quite a store of plastic trash can liners I've got at at home. I need to research to find alternatives...

The owner of the "Korean" deli across the street from my house thanks me when I don't take a bag; small business owners know the cost of the "free" bags they give to us.

Here are some case studies relevant to small businesses from a group in Australia, No Plastic Bags.

(And I've been quite successful with my commuter cup campaign. Starbucks gives a 10 cent credit when I use a commuter cup; so large businesses know about the costs of disposables, too.)