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
Resiliency | Jun 1, 2016
Federal agencies boost standards for more resilient construction
HUD, FEMA, GSA, Army Corps of Engineers make policy changes.
Green | May 31, 2016
Miami Beach requires developers to meet green standards or pay a fee
Applies to structures larger than 7,000 sf.
Codes and Standards | May 27, 2016
Better enforcement needed for successful implementation of energy efficiency policies
Commercial buildings the focus of recent code initiatives.
Codes and Standards | May 25, 2016
LEED Dynamic is worth the effort, says commercial real estate executive
San Diego office tower is California’s first office building to receive LEED Dynamic plaque in recertification.
Codes and Standards | May 24, 2016
Ontario planning to spend $7 billion on wide-ranging climate change plan
Includes financial incentives to retrofit buildings.
Codes and Standards | May 23, 2016
Facility managers say Internet of Things, analytics will impact maintenance soon
More reliable data needed for optimal results from the technology.
Codes and Standards | May 20, 2016
Industry leaders call for wider use of bamboo as a building material
Benefits include seismic resiliency and sustainability.
Codes and Standards | May 19, 2016
Asphalt roofing group publishes updated shingle installation guide
Technical manual provides best practices for roofing professionals.
Codes and Standards | May 16, 2016
EPA proposes new stormwater discharge regulations for construction sites
Would apply to sites of one or more acres.
Roofing | May 16, 2016
New guide focused on increasing energy and structural performance with raised-heel trusses
Higher trusses simplify attic ventilation, leave more space for insulation.