Brussels’ Zero Waste Challenge
The European capital and its Environment ministry Brussels Environment have been engaged in a Zero Waste Strategy for some time, with various inspiring initiatives, including:
- a monthly zero waste newsletter;
- a Facebook page and an agenda for the promotion of zero waste events;
- an online resource showcasing best practice projects; and
- the organisation of municipal Zero Waste Challenges in 2019 and 2020, with 50 and 200 participating families respectively and impressive results.
The Zero Waste Challenge consists of eight months (February–October) of personalised coaching and support to help families reduce their waste. Families commit to attending at least three practical workshops/visits. Every two weeks, participants receive a specific challenge – 13 in total – several of which target alternatives to single-use packaging and products, e.g. the bulk sales challenge, zero waste picnic challenge, and the drinking challenge.
Participants in the city’s first Zero Waste Challenge in 2019 reduced their waste by 30% in one year, from an initial 61 kg per year to 43 kg per year, which is 75% less waste than the average Brussels citizen. The project also serves to raise awareness of single-use plastic pollution and available alternatives.
