Zero Waste Facility Certification
Guiding facility operators towards a Zero Waste level of performance!
What Is the Zero Waste Facility Certification?
The Zero Waste Facility Certification is a program offered by Zero Waste Canada, the national affiliate of the Zero Waste International Alliance (ZWIA). Its goal is to guide facility operators toward achieving internationally recognized Zero Waste standards, helping them significantly reduce waste, improve efficiency, and inspire others in their industry.
The program recognizes facilities through two main stages:
• Stage One: On the Road to Zero Waste Recognition
• Stage Two: Zero Waste Facility Certification
Learn more about how to begin your Zero Waste journey in the ‘How to Start Your Facility Certification Journey’ section below.
Our Certification Support Team
Zero Waste Canada has entered into an agreement with HSR Zero Waste to support our members through their certification journey.
Once your Zero Waste Certification Form is submitted, a member of the HSR Zero Waste team will reach out to guide you through each step. They will:
- Help you understand the certification requirements and fee structure
- Support your planning and documentation efforts
- Collect and review your materials for quality assurance
- Submit your documentation for official certification review
This collaboration ensures that you receive expert guidance and hands-on support making the process simple, transparent, and effective!
Who Gets Certified and Why?
Facilities of any size and across almost any sector can work toward certification.
This includes manufacturers, hotels, restaurants, community centers, conference and convention centers, office buildings, shopping malls, data centers, retail stores, distribution centers, warehouses, schools and universities, hospitals and healthcare facilities, event and entertainment facilities, government buildings, laboratories, and more!
If you’re unsure whether your facility or business would qualify, contact us! We’ll be happy to check for you.
Common motivations include:
- Demonstrating industry leadership by setting new performance standards
- Aligning operations with your mission, vision, and values
- Attracting and retaining talented employees
- Building a unique, values-based brand culture
- Joining the Zero Waste community and expanding your network
- Using a structured framework for measurable operational improvements
- Managing supply chain risks and preparing for regulatory changes
How To Start Your Zero Waste Facility Certification Journey
Submit a Request & Get Connected
Complete our Zero Waste Certification Form to contact us for more details. After submission, a team member from Zero Waste Canada or HSR Zero Waste will contact you to provide guidance and answer your questions.
Prepare and Submit Documentation
Work with your HSR Zero Waste Associate to complete the necessary activities, and gather the required information and documents for certification. This may include waste audits and facility assessments, diversion tracking reports, policies, and procurement guidelines, etc.
Desktop Verification
Once all criteria have been completed, HSR Zero Waste will submit for verification by a third party verify. Any deficiencies in the submission will be coordinated by HSR Zero Waste and the Facility Operator to complete for final submission and approval.
On the Road to Zero Waste Recognition (Stage One)
Your facility will be recognized for your progress through the official On the Road to Zero Waste status. This stage acknowledges your commitment and provides support as you advance toward Stage Two certification.
Obtain Zero Waste Facility Certification (Stage Two)
Through your commitment in Stage One, facilities that meet the program’s high standards can earn one of three certification levels: Silver, Gold, or Platinum. Upon verification, your facility will be officially certified as a Zero Waste Facility and recognized by Zero Waste Canada, in alignment with the principles of the Zero Waste International Alliance.
ZERO WASTE FACILITY CERTIFICATION PROCESS
Benefits of Certification
The value of Zero Waste certification extends beyond waste reduction, offering significant environmental and operational benefits. Certified facilities often experience:
- Environmental Leadership: Achieve internationally recognized standards for waste reduction and resource efficiency.
- Cost Savings: Uncover financial benefits through improved reuse policies, material substitutions, and reduced hauling fees.
- Employee Engagement: Empower your staff to become sustainability advocates, fostering a strong green culture.
- Impact Measurement: Gain insights into the environmental, financial, and social effects of your resource use through better tracking and reporting.
- Brand Recognition: Strengthen your reputation with official Zero Waste Canada certification badges and public acknowledgment.
- Visibility and Network: Be featured across Zero Waste Canada’s channels and connect with a community of like-minded organizations.
- Membership Perks: Access exclusive resources and support through Zero Waste Canada’s business membership.