ZERO WASTE POLICY
Zero waste is defined as actions to maximize diversion from landfills and reducing waste at the source, with the ultimate goal of striving for more sustainable solid waste management practices. Achieving Zero Waste will require radical changes in product creation, product use, and product disposal. The San Gabriel Valley Council of Governments (SGVCOG) acknowledges that waste generation negatively impacts the health of residents. Placement of waste materials in waste disposal facilities can lead to a transfer of liabilities to future generations. Additionally, waste that is not properly contained or responsibility disposed can lead to blight and unsanitary conditions in the community.
On September 17, 2020, the SGVCOG Governing Board adopted a Zero Waste Policy that would serve as a long-term guide for the agency's commitment to reducing and eliminating waste and provide a framework for San Gabriel Valley cities and agencies.
ZERO WASTE RESOURCES
MANAGING & TRANSFORMING WASTE
Developed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the tool allows users to explore 100 policies and programs that local jurisdictions can implement to reduce the amount of waste disposed in landfills and promote waste prevention across waste generation sectors.
SOLID WASTE CHARACTERIZATION TOOL
The California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery conducts periodic waste characterization studies to better understand the types and amounts of materials disposed in and diverted from California's waste stream. This tool allows users to view waste characterization estimates for California's local jurisdictions.
COMMUNITY ZERO WASTE ROADMAP
The Community Zero Waste Roadmap contains a step-by-step guide for residents, organizations, businesses, and local jurisdictions to effectively pursue Zero Waste goals and objectives. The Roadmap also includes a 3-phase, 10-year plan that can reduce waste and recover 90% of the discards in a community.