Sustainable management of municipal solid waste : a zero waste strategy for the City of Surrey

Abstract

As part of a broader agenda to cut costs, fulfil the needs of its projected population increases, and curb the impact of municipal solid waste on the environment and human well-being, the City of Surrey, BC, is pursuing the development of a zero waste strategy (ZWS). This study uses data collected through case studies, literature review, document and gap analysis, an online survey and a review of Surrey’s residential solid waste management systems compared to current industry practices towards developing a ZWS as proposed by the city. The findings suggest that due to waste management’s (WM) many influences, including supply chains, human behaviour, environmental, social and economic factors, a ZWS may be ineffective without residents, industry, and stakeholders’ collective participation in modifying their consumption, production and WM practices: a process, which includes public education on waste prevention and reduction strategies towards closing the loop for resource efficiency through sustainable production and consumption.