Global Release – June 23, 2025 – The Zero Waste International Alliance (ZWIA) is pleased to announce the release of Version 8.1 of the Zero Waste Hierarchy of Highest and Best Use. This update was developed through the collective input and expertise of Zero Waste organizations and leaders worldwide, offering refined guidance to advance effective Zero Waste policies and strategies. The refined Hierarchy introduces key improvements that enhance the Hierarchy’s effectiveness as a leading tool for developing Zero Waste policies, programs, and strategies worldwide.
“These updates provide essential insights to address current issues, including chemical recycling and working toward a circular economy.” — Gary Liss, Chair of the Zero Waste Certification Committee
This update reinforces the Zero Waste Hierarchy as a critical resource in advancing sustainable material use and waste reduction efforts globally. By adopting Version 8.1, ZWIA aims to provide greater clarity and direction for organizations and communities working toward a Zero Waste future.
“The Zero Waste Hierarchy provides a critical understanding of policies to ensure global alignment with the term ‘Zero Waste‘,” — Jamie Kaminski, Committee Chair of the Zero Waste Hierarchy Working Group.
“Conserving resources is our goal; the hierarchy provides a model,” — Richard Anthony, President of ZWIA.
Key updates in Version 8.1 include:
● Enhanced language in the guiding principle of Do Not Export Harm, to ensure that harmful materials are not sent to regions or facilities that cannot properly handle them, with regard to environmental and health standards.
● Addition of a new principle, Do No Harm, to guide organizations in minimizing the negative social and environmental impacts of materials and discards throughout their lifecycle.
● Technical refinements to definitions surrounding circular economy, closed-loop systems, composting, and recycling, ensuring clarity and consistency in application.
This update was developed in collaboration with leading international Zero Waste organizations, including Zero Waste International Alliance (ZWIA), Zero Waste Canada (ZWC), Zero Waste British Columbia (ZWBC), Zero Waste Europe (ZWE), GAIA, and the Energy Justice Network. Additionally, it was shared with the global Zero Waste network for review and comments to ensure comprehensive insights and enhancement.
About the Zero Waste Hierarchy
The Zero Waste Hierarchy provides a structured framework for waste prevention, material recovery, and sustainable resource management. Designed to guide policymakers, businesses, and individuals, it expands on the widely recognized 3Rs (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) to prioritize actions that drive systemic change toward a circular economy. The Hierarchy serves as a key policy tool for developing Zero Waste strategies and fostering a more sustainable future.
Media Contacts
● Jamie Kaminski (Zero Waste Canada)
Committee Chair – Zero Waste Hierarchy Working Group
Email: jamie.kaminski@zerowastecanada.ca
● Gary Liss (Zero Waste USA)
Committee Chair – Zero Waste Certification Committee
Email: gary@garyliss.com
● Richard Anthony (ZWIA)
President – Zero Waste International Alliance (ZWIA)
Email: ricanthony@aol.com
● Enzo Favoino (Zero Waste Europe)
ZWIA Advisor & Chair of the Scientific Committee, Zero Waste Europe
Email: favoinoenzo@gmail.com