Step-by-Step Guide to achieve Zero waste reporting credits 1: Document Diversion by Commodity or Waste for TRUE Certification

With the rise of sustainability awareness in recent years, many organizations are seeking certification for their zero waste initiatives. The TRUE (Total Resource Use and Efficiency) certification is a widely recognized program that recognizes companies that strive towards zero waste. The certification has four Zero Waste Reporting Credits, each with specific requirements that companies must meet. This article will provide a step-by-step guide to help companies comply with Zero Waste Reporting Credit 1: Document Diversion by Commodity or Waste.

Step 1: Identify all waste streams and determine current tracking procedures

The first step towards compliance is identifying all waste streams generated at the facility and understanding how each stream is processed. Determine if the facility currently tracks each waste stream and develop tracking procedures for those that are not being tracked. Strive to obtain actual weights for as many waste streams as possible. If obtaining weight is not feasible, ensure that the process implemented for tracking volume obtains accurate and useful data for the project.

Step 2: Compile 12 months of data for each commodity and waste stream

Compile 12 months of data for each commodity and waste stream. Ensure the data shows an overall annual average diversion from landfill, incineration (WTE), or environment of 90% or better. Data must be broken down by month. If certified or otherwise documented weights are not available, the use of guidelines from the EPA, state agency, or similar reference for volume to weight conversions are acceptable. This credit allows for the inclusion of reuse and reduce, provided each commodity in this category has been tracked.

Step 3: Determine a baseline year and compile data for each commodity and waste stream

Determine a baseline year and compile data for each commodity and waste stream in that year. Data should be displayed and calculated in a similar manner to 12-month reporting period data above. The base year could be the reporting year immediately preceding the most recent reporting year at a minimum (calendar or otherwise).

Step 4: Submit documentation

Submit documentation that includes a narrative describing the data collection and tracking process. If applicable, the methodology used to estimate weights must be included in the narrative or in the diversion report. Provide 12 months of ongoing tracking data for all waste streams. Data must be displayed by commodity and waste, be broken down by month, and calculate the annual average diversion rate. Also, provide 12 months of data for a baseline year. Data must be displayed by commodity and waste, be broken down by month, and calculate the annual average diversion rate. Documentation that verifies values listed in tracking sheets for at least one month, including invoices that document weight, weight tickets, internal documentation, or any report from a service provider (if available). If actual weights are not available, the documented process must quantify container size/volumes.

Compliance with the Zero Waste Reporting Credit 1 requires a detailed understanding of waste generation and tracking processes. It is crucial to compile 12 months of data for each commodity and waste stream and determine a baseline year to monitor the progress of the zero waste initiatives. Companies should strive to obtain actual weights for waste streams as much as possible, and if not feasible, ensure that the process implemented for tracking volume obtains accurate and useful data for the project. By following these steps, companies can demonstrate their commitment to zero waste initiatives and work towards achieving the TRUE certification.