The Zero Waste Blog

Mass production of plastics, which began just six decades ago, has accelerated so rapidly that it has created 8.3 billion metric tons—most of it in single use disposable products that end up as trash. (source NationalGeographic). A study, published back in July 13th 2017, in the peer-reviewed journal Science Advances, was the first global analysis of all plastics ever made—and their fate. Of the 8.3 billion metric tons that’s been produced, 6.3 billion metric tons has become

It used to be just people that traffickers targeted. Now Traffickers see Plastic waste as a valuable material. Interpol is on the case and it’s disturbing. A recent INTERPOL report has found an alarming increase in illegal plastic waste pollution trade across the world since 2018. The report provides a disturbing insight into emerging trafficking routes & crime threats in the plastic waste market and is based on open sources and criminal intelligence from 40 countries. The p

There is little that needs to be added to the words of these talented Primary School pupils. We are offering them this platform to relay their message – one small change by everyone will bring us all a step closer to Zero Waste and help save the planet. Sometimes we need to listen to our children more…..the message is clear. The talent and creativity is evident and the professional result that Garry Mc Carty delivers on low budgets through GMCBeats is inspirational. Productio

ZWAI support the #SickOfPlastic national days of action and encourage all Zero Wasters to participate locally. As well as encouraging Shops to offer less plastic to us we need to take positive action on a personal level to avoid unnecessary plastic in our daily lives. Here’s a few tips on how to reduce your own plastic intake. BACKGROUND. In the first 10 years of this century we have manufactured more plastic than in all of the 20th century. Plastic is one of the most endurin

Are we reaching the Last Straw? There are 8,500,000,000 reasons why. The long-suffering, captive Irish consumer has had enough of plastic waste! We’re at the last straw, figuratively and maybe in reality too. Plastic Waste We’ve reached # the Last Straw. How timely then, that despite all our urging in the past to eliminate needless plastic packaging and superfluous plastic such as wrappings, plastic bags and disposable cups and cutlery, we are seeing some action emerging. Unf

We are aware more than most in Zero Waste Ireland that the issue of plastic pollution is a massive global challenge and a blight on our own country.  According to the Green Party, every year, over 110 million tonnes of plastic is produced. Of this, up to 43% ends up in landfill. The amount of plastic waste created in Ireland is actually unknown, as the EPA is only obliged to report on plastic packaging waste and microplastic waste created by a range of industries is currently