Class Description: This class teaches participants what Zero Waste is and how to get their business or institution on the path to Zero Waste. It also teaches how to achieve Zero Waste for Businesses and institutions that have adopted aspirational goals in Zero Waste, sustainability, the circular economy, or resilience. This class introduces the steps to develop Zero Waste plans for businesses and Institutions and includes valuable information about how Zero Waste can be implemented and achieved.

Participants will learn about Zero Waste principles and the Zero Waste International Alliance (ZWIA) definition and hierarchy. Additionally, the instructors will review the nine key points of generation in businesses and institutions, along with case studies and best practices, to achieve Zero Waste. During this class, participants will learn how to use the Zero Waste Business and Institution planning toolkit. They will also learn about the Zero Waste planning process and the essential initiatives that businesses and institutions must implement to achieve Zero Waste.

This is a four-hour interactive online class (via Zoom) taught by Zero Waste industry experts. After completing the class and quiz, participants will receive a certificate of completion from Zero Waste USA.

This Class is on Thursday, August 20, 2026, from 10:00 am - 2:30 pm Pacific Time (this includes a break).

Class Outline:

1. Zero Waste Definition and Principles
2. Zero Waste Business and Institution Drivers and Benefits
3. Case Studies and Best Practices
4. Essential Principles: Leadership, Procurement, Training, and Education
5. Zero Waste Operations: Nine Points of Generation, Zero Waste Audits, Contracts, Right-Sizing
6. Zero Waste Planning, Stakeholders, and Initiatives
7. Zero Waste Planning Tools for Businesses and Institutions
8. Zero Waste Recognition and Certification Programs

Instructors:
Gary Liss, Richard Anthony, and Ruth Abbe

Cost:

General Registration - $125.

Zero Waste USA Affiliates - $75.

Group discounts are available.

Questions: email amanda@zerowasteusa.org

By registering for this course, you agree to receive communications from Zero Waste USA.

Contact the host of Zero Waste for Businesses and Institutions 2026