Tag: circular economy
Kerry’s Wise Wool Project Tackles Ireland’s Wool Waste with Community Workshops
Blog by ZWAI member Zihan Zheng Ireland produces nearly 7,000 tonnes of wool annually, most of which goes unused and is classified as a “Category 3 waste product.” For decades, Irish sheep farmers have been told their wool is worthless—it costs more to shear a sheep than to sell its fleece. Synthetic fibers, often cheaper…
Reducing Food Waste: A Key to a Sustainable Future
Food waste is not just an environmental issue; it’s an ethical, economic, and societal challenge that demands immediate attention. At the Green Gather Food Event in Westmeath, ZWAI highlighted the staggering statistics and practical solutions to tackle this crisis during a talk by one our Vice Chairperson, Jack O’Sullivan. The Problem ZWAI’s Call to Action…
A Continent of Waste: Reflections
In reflecting on this insightful article by @Jack O’Sullivan, titled “A Continent of Waste,” we are reminded of his long-standing commitment to the principles of zero waste and circular design – a vision he has championed since the inception of the Zero Waste Alliance Ireland, alongside fellow founders who shared this pioneering spirit. Written in…
How Shein Quickly Became Fast Fashion’s Biggest Polluter
With Halloween around the corner, we have a frightening topic to bring to our readers. That is, the scary truth about every everyone’s favourite “fashion” brand: Shein. A recent article from Grist has highlighted Shein’s troubling rise as the world’s biggest fast-fashion polluter, a distinction it has earned through relentless production practices that push waste…
Waste Incineration and the Triple Planetary Crisis
The practice of waste incineration, often touted as an effective waste management solution, is contributing to what is now recognised as the triple planetary crisis: climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss. By burning waste, incinerators release greenhouse gases and toxic pollutants, worsening air quality and driving global warming. This method also discourages sustainable practices like…
ZWAI Joins Forces with Coldplay to Champion Sustainability at Dublin Concerts
Submitted by: Nazia Naheed Husain, ZWAI Member and Volunteer at the Coldplay Concert In a monumental collaboration that underscores the growing synergy between music and environmental activism, ZWAI had the unique opportunity to participate in Coldplay’s highly anticipated Dublin concerts, held at Croke Park from August 29 to September 2, 2024. The partnership, facilitated by…
ZWAI at Coldplay: Featured in Westmeath Topic on 22nd August 2024
We were delighted to be featured in Westmeath Topic on the 22nd of August. Thanks to Lorraine Murphy and the rest of the folks at Westmeath Topic!
Dereliction in Ireland: Wasted Opportunity Beyond the Housing Crisis
Ireland’s housing crisis is a well documented and widely discussed issue. However, there’s a less talked-about aspect that compounds the problem: the significant amount of waste associated with the derelict properties scattered across the country. These neglected buildings are not just a visual blight; they represent a massive waste of resources that could otherwise be…
UN International Zero Waste Day, 30th March 2024
Today, 30th March 2024, marks the UN International Zero Waste Day. Here’s what we have to say….
World Water Day: A Proposal by ZWAI’s Chairman
Today, March 22nd, marks World Water Day. Read our blog below by Ollan Herr, ZWAI’s chairman, who wanted to share with our readers an important proposal to mark this day. Our ground water and surface waters are being exposed to the wasteful flush and forget culture of the modern man and woman. Reports show…
