Helping Berkshire County Get to Zero Waste

What is zero waste? We define it as a practice that emphasizes the hierarchy of the three Rs: Reduce waste by eliminating unnecessary objects and materials, then Reuse those items to the fullest extent of their lifespan, and finally Recycle what is left. The goal is not to have absolutely zero waste, but to institute these practices and the philosophy of waste prevention into daily life, both at the individual and community-wide level. It is the collective result of instituting these practices that will reduce Berkshire County’s waste, making our home a cleaner and healthier place to live.

 

4 lbs / day

The average rate of materials that are thrown away each day by Americans. This is equal to the size and weight of a small pumpkin.

30 – 40%

Of all of the food produced in the U.S., 30-40% of it is wasted – thrown away – each year. This includes food that doesn’t meet visual standards and household waste.

45%

Out of all the plastics produced between 2002 and 2014, 45% was used specifically for disposable plastic packaging. This includes coffee cups, wrappers, shipping material, and more.