About Us

What do we do?

Zero Waste Schools is a 501(c)(4) non-profit which donates and provides waste management infrastructure to schools throughout NYS. Our main goal is to divert waste away from landfills, and create an zero waste environment in the world around us + our future generations. We strive to acknowledge the state of our earth and raise awareness about the impact of our waste, among other aspects of our society. Furthermore, Zero Waste Schools aims to help build a environmentally friendly and proactive community, uplifting the youth and helping those in need.

Why Do We Work With Schools?

We believe that the best way to make effective change is to start with the future. Our future today stands in schools throughout the world; starting in schools not only puts in environmental friendly habits at a young age, but also has the ability to teach our future the importance of the zero waste approach to life.

ZWS In Legislation, Government + Policy

As a youth organization, we believe firmly in the power of organizing and advocacy. As an environmental conservation organization we understand that legislation, government, and policy are empirical to living in and creating an Earth-friendly society. Zero Waste Schools lobbies for environmentally friendly legislation in the NYS legislature and works with various city and state officials on a legislative basis. Furthermore, ZWS has worked with the DOE and Chancellor Banks on multiple occasions, promoting zero waste initiatives and student engagement. ZWS works with many NYC agencies and community organizations to create an uplifting voice to protect and strengthen both our environment and communities.

Why is waste management important?

As landfills generate substantial amounts of greenhouse gasses- gasses that are a prime contributor in global warming- it is important to do what we can to divert waste from landfills. Over 80% of our waste is either recyclable or compostable. Furthermore, biodegradable waste (aka compostable waste) in landfills produces tons of methane each day. Methane is a greenhouse gas 84x more potent than carbon dioxide. --- The issues are endless, it is our goal to combat them.

How can you help from home?

Waste management has the ability to take place at any place, not only schools. Take a look at how you can recycle and compost at home, and help the environment from home. If you reside at a building complex, look into how your building recycles and composts and what you can do to improve this process.

CURBSIDE COMPOSTING STARTS OCT. 3RD IN QUEENS NYC