Zero Waste Week: Tackling Waste as a Collective

Zero Waste Week: Tackling Waste as a Collective

September 2024, by Blessing Olaoye

Today marks the end of this year’s Zero Waste Week. So, what exactly is Zero Waste Week? Zero Waste Week serves the purpose of reminding us of our responsibility to reduce day-to-day waste. As we become more aware of the impact waste has on our planet, the week highlights the importance of minimising waste. It encourages us all to shift towards a more sustainable way of living.

It’s very easy to assume that reducing waste lies only with one group; however, this is not true. It requires a collective effort from individuals and businesses. Businesses can play a vital role in advancing the zero-waste movement. Some businesses are key players in producing and distributing goods, and they have the power to influence their consumers to be more mindful of their consumption.

At MM-Eye, we’ve seen firsthand through our Say Do Sustainability Study (SDSS) that consumers are increasingly looking to businesses to lead by example in sustainability efforts. They expect brands to offer eco-friendly products and demonstrate a commitment to sustainable practices throughout their operations, including waste reduction. This alignment with consumer values is not just beneficial for the planet—it’s important for building trust and loyalty.

There are many businesses already stepping up and implementing zero waste practices to help minimise waste within their business. Here are some of the ways businesses can work towards this:

1. Moving away from single-use packaging in favour of reusable/biodegradable alternatives.
2. Encouraging employees to engage in zero waste initiatives they can apply both at work and at home – this can be through organising workshops or training sessions on zero waste practices.
3. Engage in sustainable partnerships by choosing suppliers and partners who are also committed to sustainable practices.
4. Encourage remote work where possible, reducing the need for large office spaces and associated waste. Use virtual meeting tools to cut down on the need for business travel, reducing both waste and emissions.

Zero Waste Week is a powerful reminder that everyone, including businesses, shares the responsibility to reduce waste. For our clients, understanding the consumer perspective on sustainability is important for staying relevant and competitive. Our SDSS data highlights that consumers are paying attention to businesses’ sustainability claims and scrutinising the actions taken to back those claims.

Aligning your business practices with your consumers’ values can build stronger, more loyal relationships and contribute positively to the environment. At MM-Eye, we help businesses understand these consumer expectations and translate them into actionable strategies. Our insights from the SDSS can guide your efforts to adopt zero-waste practices that resonate with your consumers and support long-term business success.

If you’re interested in learning more about how MM-Eye can help you align your sustainability strategies with consumer expectations, contact us today at info@mm-eye.com or use the form below to book a consultation.