On 5 June, ISS aims to save over 80,000 items from going into waste bins by issuing its third annual global ‘Zero Waste Challenge’.
The ‘ZWC’ is open to all individuals and organisations and is the brainchild of the Waste Services division at ISS UK. The initiative asks all involved to reduce waste produced on the day, with activities as large or as small as each pledgee can achieve. Participation details can be found here (https://iss-uk.me/zero-waste/)
In 2018, and 2017, a combined total of 28,500 people eliminated 143,000 items from waste on ZWC Day. This year, the goal is to engage 25,000 pledgees who will undertake activities on the day and raise awareness of simple waste reduction behaviour going forward.
Facilities Management – pioneers in waste reduction
The facilities management sector in particular is uniquely placed to pioneer and encourage best practice in efforts to reduce waste, thereby supporting client Corporate Responsibility sustainability goals.
By developing initiatives in all areas of workspace management – from waste management and technical services to food services - FM can help the wider public to introduce and continue their sustainable practices to provide a more environmentally balanced way of life.
On 5 June, ISS will implement various activities to include:
· Single use items (such as coffee cups, straws, cutlery) available on request only
· Sustainable menus to incorporate seasonal ingredients and plant-based options
· New bin signage to improve waste segregation
· ‘ZWC’ Roadshows to increase awareness of waste issues and encourage employees and clients to take action to reduce their waste
As an organisation, ISS also challenges its suppliers to provide more sustainable solutions as we see an increased drive to deliver sustainable initiatives for clients, customers and our stakeholders. In the longer term, ISS has a continual and sustained programme of projects designed to eliminate waste and promote a mindful approach to sustainability.
Waste reduction activities
There is huge potential to have a positive influence as facilities management providers. Waste can be treated as a natural resource whereby materials can be used and reused within a circular economy.
FM clients can be encouraged to swap single-use items for reusable ones at all sites and can be cost neutral in the short-term by eliminating the need for disposal costs.
Reducing the number of fleet vehicles collecting our waste will improve our air quality and reduce CO2 emissions. Equally, more efficient fuel consumption by vehicles can be achieved by using telematic monitoring .
At an individual level, pledges span:
· Creating meals from surplus food
· Reusable, instead of single-use cups and plastic water bottles
· Recycling coffee grounds as garden fertilizer
· Using a tote bag instead of plastic carrier bags
· Buying loose fresh produce instead of pre-packaged food
ISS encourages all to sign up for the #ZeroWasteChallenge and show how everyone can make a change for the better https://iss-uk.me/zero-waste/