Zero waste to landfill (ZTL) has become an important element of the sustainability agenda today. Many organisations have realised the importance of embedding this into their business models. In theory, zero waste to landfill implies that zero waste is discarded into landfill sites and is redesigned in such a way that it makes its way further downstream to be recycled, reused or repurposed, contributing to a circular economy. 

There is a lot of support towards a net zero world, many policies and legislation are gradually promoting zero waste to landfill by encouraging innovative alternative waste treatment solutions that not only results in zero waste but enhances the development of SMMEs in the green economy, creating jobs and uplifting communities. We know that landfill facilities are very quickly reaching capacity to accept waste for disposal, so innovative solutions and technologies must quickly be embraced and implemented. 

Despite the increased awareness of ZTL, there are still myths about the concept and impacts on business. Below are the three common myths about ZTL.

Myth #1: Zero waste to landfill is expensive 

At first glance of zero waste, clients feel that it is very expensive and will fall out of their budget. Many of the technologies are slightly above the gate fees charged at landfill sites, however while some zero waste options are expensive initially, businesses quickly realise that it is much cheaper in the long run. Reducing waste can save you money. E.g., recycling waste can bring in an income for your business in the form of rebates. Some businesses can save by simply switching from a single-use material to reusable substitutes. E.g.: if a business generates plastic coffee cups, this can be replaced with reusable mugs which not only keeps the waste stream out of landfill but also saves your business the cost of ordering new plastic cups each month. Small steps taken to reduce waste such as this simple exercise can go a long way in helping them achieve zero waste without breaking the bank!

Myth #2: There are not enough technologies or solutions to achieve zero waste

A common misconception is that there are no other options for waste except to be dumped at a landfill. As someone working in the industry, speaking purely from a South African context, we have many innovative organizations who have proven that certain challenging waste streams can be processed into new valuable products which can be sold back into the market. While there may be some red tape hurdles along the way, there are several creative businesses that exist to solve the problems of non-traditional waste streams. One such technology, and one that is in line with international best practice is alternative fuel resources. Waste streams with a high CV can be used as a replacement feedstock to create refuse derived fuel – replacing the use of fossil fuels.

When it comes to zero waste to landfill, one business’s waste becomes another business’s resource. In some instances, it doesn’t involve technology but merely creating a symbiosis between two businesses that can each help each other. A typical example of this is the use of organic waste for farm feed, often generated in high volumes, farms and farm feed manufacturers can utilize it in their feed rations creating a closed loop solution to waste and providing essential nutrients for farm animals.

Myth #3: Zero waste is not possible in some industries 

One of the most valuable opportunities I have as a ZTL Manager, is to work with organisations from across different industries to understand their unique footing in the zero waste to landfill agenda. All businesses generate waste. We seek to understand what type of waste goes to landfill by an organization which will help identify what solutions exist to divert waste. No industry is excluded from zero waste to landfill. With help from a professional waste management service provider companies can develop their own zero waste strategies that suit their individual business needs. Businesses and industries at large should understand that zero waste to landfill is not impossible and that it is a journey that begins with small steps to reduce waste and ends at sustained net zero.

Falon Doorasamy is a ZTL Manager at WastePlan & SmartMatta,  based in South Africa. Her focus is on the implementation of zero waste projects across multiple client sites as well as environmental compliance aspects.