Over the past few weeks, Our Country Lead had the privilege of joining an inspiring program on zero waste advocacy and innovation with GAIA Africa, guided by dedicated mentors and changemakers from across the continent.
“Zero waste is not just a vision—it’s a practice we can build together.”
Four Weeks of Online Learning
What we covered:
Waste assessments & brand audits
Organic waste management
Community education & mobilization
Separation at source & addressing false solutions
Plastic waste reduction & recycling
Business models for sustainable waste systems
One Week In-Person – Durban, South Africa
A vibrant blend of plenary sessions and field visits in a city where nature, innovation, and community meet.
Plenary Sessions
Sharing zero waste stories
Understanding waste in UNFCCC and the Global Plastic Treaty
Communication strategies and peer projects from across Africa
Field Visits
Durban Botanic Gardens – local zero waste initiatives
Early Morning Market – separation at source in practice
Soil labs & compost sites – composting, permaculture, microbial life
Innovation at USE-IT
At this 7-year-old innovation center, waste becomes:
Eco-bricks, BSF compost, and upcycled products
Part of an ERP model that puts waste pickers at the center of the circular economy
Practical Insights
How to build the business case for organic waste diversion:
Cost-Benefit Analysis
Group collaboration exercises
Stories of Inclusion
Members of SAWPA (South African Waste Pickers Association) shared first-hand experiences, demonstrating what true inclusion looks like—waste pickers driving transformation.
Renewed Commitment
This journey reaffirmed our belief that a just, zero waste future is within reach—rooted in education, community, and bold collaboration.
🙏🏽 Special thanks to GAIA Africa, mentors, and fellow champions for this unforgettable experience.
