Zero Waste Academy (ZWA)

Communities around the world deserve a clean, just, and resilient environment. Zero waste is a powerful climate solution that not only reduces emissions but also empowers people, protects health, and strengthens local economies. The Zero Waste Academy exists to spark this transformation—by building the knowledge, skills, and solidarity needed to create a zero waste future.

The Zero Waste Academy is an educational program initiated by the Mother Earth Foundation in Asia, in collaboration with GAIA. Since its launch in 2017, over 12 academies have been held across multiple regions, training +500 participants worldwide. Each Academy builds regional capacity and strengthens the global zero waste movement.

The Zero Waste Academy is an educational program initiated by the Mother Earth Foundation in Asia, in collaboration with GAIA. Since its launch in 2017, over 12 academies have been held across multiple regions, training +500 participants worldwide. Each Academy builds regional capacity and strengthens the global zero waste movement.

Blogs

Visit the Zero Waste Resources Library

TESTIMONIALS

“It was a very good and comprehensive experience. It was a very structured session”
Stanzin Dothon of Little Green World, India, 2023.
“It was a wonderful experience. I'm thankful for this wonderful opportunity. I have wonderful memories.”
Mira of Meta Media in Nepal, 2023.
“Agradezco mucho esta iniciativa porque nos permite como técnicos abrir nuestra mente, tener en cuenta que existen varias alternativas para implementar el modelo basura cero en cada realidad”
Henry Narváez, Cayambe Municipality. 2024
“Esta Academia Basura Cero ha sido impresionante ya que uno ha podido mirar cómo incluir recicladores de base y personalmente aprovechar los residuos orgánicos para que no haya basura”
Paola Ramos, GAD Municipalidad Francisco de Orellana, 2024.

FAQ

Anyone interested in zero waste practices can join the Zero Waste Academy. This includes citizens, community leaders, policymakers, organizations, and businesses that want to implement sustainable waste management solutions in their communities.

Zero waste helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions by minimizing landfill waste, which produces methane, a potent greenhouse gas. Zero waste strategies also lower carbon footprints, conserve resources, and promote a circular economy by advancing recycling and composting, and reducing consumption.

The ZWA provides individuals and organizations with the knowledge and tools to implement zero waste practices, which help lower the costs associated with landfilling and waste disposal. By reducing waste, communities can save money on waste management, while also creating green jobs in recycling, composting, and resource recovery. Zero waste practices not only promote environmental sustainability but also foster local economic growth and job creation, improving the overall well-being of communities.

Yes, organizations can use the ZWA as a training program for their teams. ZWA offers courses to help organizations integrate zero waste practices into their operations. For more information on tailored training opportunities for your region, we recommend visiting the “Contact” section of our website to get in touch with representatives from each region who can provide further details and support.

Some ZWA courses are free, while others may require a fee, depending on the content and certification level. The academy aims to make education accessible to all, with various free resources and affordable options to suit different learning needs.

Yes, participants can earn certificates upon successful completion of certain ZWA courses. These certificates validate their knowledge and skills in zero waste practices, which can be useful for personal growth, career development, or organizational goals.

OUR IMPACT

12
Total N° of Academies
+ 570
N° of participants