Across Europe, in response to the growing waste and climate crises we face, a growing number of cities are adopting zero waste policies and strategies. Yet the urgency and scale of the problem requires an immediate increase in the speed and impact of zero waste and circular economy strategies being implemented on the ground.

This is why we have designed a guide to help inspire and support communities begin their journey towards zero waste.

‘Creating a methodology for zero waste municipalities’ is a toolkit that has been designed collaboratively by Hnuti DUHA, Ekologi Brez Meja and Zero Waste Europe with the aim of providing an introduction to some of the key principles of what zero waste is today. The toolkit also covers the concept of zero waste, its guiding principles, 10 clear steps for designing a zero waste plan at the municipal level and a challenge to some of the myths and fiction surrounding the narrative on zero waste.

In addition to the toolkit, we have created a number of practical tools for municipalities and communities, including a groundbreaking calculator to see the benefits that adopting a zero waste approach could bring to your municipality, specifically regarding a reduction in the costs of waste management, the levels of waste generated and Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions.

Whether you are a municipality official, waste professional, civil society actor, business owner or resident, you will find that zero waste is relevant for you.

We hope that this toolkit provides you with the skills and knowledge to begin your journey towards zero waste.