In an effort to greatly reduce waste sent to landfills, more than 130 companies or facilities have signed on to TRUE Zero Waste.
The USGBC certification program was designed to be a roadmap to achieve high diversion levels; help create a zero waste, closed loop economy; and increase bottom lines. Participating organizations learn best practices in redesigning waste systems, from upstream management, to zero waste purchasing, to training employees.
Program participants also learn how to document diversion and develop metrics to measure their progress. Participants earn credits for things like redesigning packaging to reduce waste, donating food, or buying 100% recycled products.
They must engage in those practices and maintain a specified diversion rate for 12 months to receive a certification. Some companies have seen returns of up to $100,000 to $1 million through waste sustainability projects in six months to a year.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Nov 17, 2016
Santa Monica, Calif., passes historic net-zero ordinance
Includes more stringent commercial, multifamily building standards.
Codes and Standards | Nov 14, 2016
Six more states approve legal marijuana, creating opportunities for developers
Federal prohibition complicates the picture.
Codes and Standards | Nov 14, 2016
Los Angeles voters approve billions to tackle traffic and homelessness
The approved measures will create new rail lines and permanent housing.
Codes and Standards | Nov 9, 2016
NRMCA updates environmental impacts of concrete
The EPD now includes 88 companies, 72 mixes.
Codes and Standards | Nov 9, 2016
Louisiana flood projections require urgent action, officials say
The 'no net loss’ prediction now seems unrealistic.
Codes and Standards | Nov 8, 2016
American Concrete Institute offers new guide for repair of concrete buildings
The guide provides assistance on assessment and rehab.
Codes and Standards | Nov 7, 2016
The AISC prequalified seismic moment connection standard is now available
You can download the 2016 version for free.
Codes and Standards | Nov 4, 2016
Obama Administration makes a push for denser, more affordable cities
The administration calls for zoning code changes and other measures to create more housing.
Codes and Standards | Nov 3, 2016
OSHA proposes safety standards changes to reduce employer costs
The changes include clarification on excavation standard and reporting job-related hearing loss.
Codes and Standards | Nov 2, 2016
New resources available to reduce plug loads using advanced power strips
A tenant education program can boost efficiency in office buildings.