What is Zero Waste certification and why is it important?

When we talk about environmental management, many think it only involves reducing greenhouse gas emissions. While this is undoubtedly a crucial topic, environmental management encompasses much more. One example is waste management, which poses a significant challenge for both businesses and society as a whole. Therefore, it is essential to begin taking steps to address this issue.

Obtaining certification that recognizes a company as committed to the environment is a fundamental step in this process. One such certification is Zero Waste. If you are not familiar with this concept and want to learn about the process to obtain it, you are in the right place. Below, we explain everything you need to know about this certification so that you can achieve it quickly and safely.

What does "Zero Waste" mean?

The term "Zero Waste" may sound familiar, as it is part of the circular economy concept—a model that more and more companies are adopting in their pursuit of sustainability. This type of economy is based on four fundamental principles: reduce, reuse, recycle, and valorize. The Zero Waste concept focuses especially on the first principle, reduction, which represents a real challenge for companies accustomed to the traditional "use and discard" model.

The importance of reduction in waste management

To achieve a significant reduction in waste, we must understand that what is traditionally considered "waste" at the end of a production process can become the raw material for another, whether within the same company or another. This paradigm shift not only reduces the amount of waste generated but also helps minimize greenhouse gas emissions into the atmosphere and leads to significant energy savings.

What is Zero Waste certification?

Zero Waste certification is a label that verifies a company is managing its waste responsibly and efficiently. It is important to note that obtaining certification does not imply achieving the goal of zero waste but rather demonstrates the company's commitment and progress on this path. To obtain the certification, a company must demonstrate that it has implemented effective strategies for the valorization of its waste.

Strategies for waste valorization

These strategies include:

• Reusing waste as raw material within the same company.
• Preparing waste for reuse by other companies.
• Implementing new work methodologies to reduce the amount of waste generated during production.

Levels of Zero Waste certification

The certification is divided into two main levels:

• Zero Waste: Granted to companies that have made significant progress in reducing their waste, achieving a minimum valorization of 90%.
• Towards Zero Waste: Granted to companies that have achieved substantial progress, with at least 60% valorization of their waste. These companies must also demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement and have a plan to advance toward the Zero Waste level.

Requirements to obtain Zero Waste certification

The Zero Waste certification can be requested by companies from all sectors. However, specific requirements vary depending on whether the company designs products or not.

Requirements for companies that do not design products

These companies must:

1. Inventory waste: Detail the types and quantities of waste generated. At Manglai, we simplify this process with our "Smart Classification and Data Management" functionality, which enables precise, automated waste tracking.
2. Manage waste: Provide a detailed report documenting the entire waste management process, from generation to final disposal. Our "Impact Analysis and Interactive Dashboards" tool allows companies to visualize and monitor the entire waste lifecycle.
3. Have a waste reduction plan: Present an active plan to reduce waste generated in all processes. Using Manglai's "AI-driven Reduction Plans," companies can receive personalized and optimized strategies for waste reduction.
4. Follow the Zero Waste principle: Document waste management in adherence to the Zero Waste principle. Our team of "Climate Experts" provides advice and support for implementing this principle.
5. Use a certified management system: Maintain a certified management system, such as ISO 14001 or ISO 9001, to integrate Zero Waste processes.

Requirements for companies that design products

In addition to meeting the above requirements, these companies must implement additional measures that incorporate eco-design into their production chain. This includes:

• Creating systems that ensure waste minimization.
• Extending product lifecycles.
• Using recycled materials.
• Designing products for easy disassembly and recycling at the end of their lifecycle.

Benefits of obtaining Zero Waste certification for your company

The Zero Waste certification, valid for three years, provides numerous benefits for companies:

• Enhances corporate image: Demonstrates the company's commitment to sustainability and environmental care. Using Manglai's "Custom Web" functionality, companies can transparently and attractively communicate their Zero Waste strategy to stakeholders.
• Integration with CSR: Aligns with Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) projects.
• Competitive advantage: Provides a significant edge in complying with environmental regulations on waste management. Manglai offers "Regulatory Analysis" to ensure adherence to current standards.
• Generates income: Waste valorization creates new business opportunities and increases revenue.
• Reduces costs: Optimizing waste management significantly lowers the costs associated with its treatment and disposal.

At Manglai, we specialize in helping companies achieve Zero Waste certification by offering tools and services based on the GHG Protocol and ISO 14064. Our comprehensive solutions, which include measuring and analyzing waste, implementing reduction plans, and generating reports, facilitate a more efficient and sustainable waste management process.

We provide a complete set of features to support companies on their sustainability journey. These features are grouped into four main categories: measure, act, report, and certify. Through these tools, companies can monitor emissions, implement reduction plans, generate reports, and obtain certifications that validate their commitment to the environment.