Zero Waste Initiative, photos by Darcy Holdorf, audio and production by Jenna Smith
June 23, 2013
The Appalachian Ohio Zero Waste Initiative (AOZWI) collaborates with communities to build local wealth and environmental health by increasing waste diversion and supporting the development of a zero waste economy. AOZWI was formed in 2010 in response to a number of challenges in Southeast Ohio: low recycling rates, high rates of illegal dumping, and burning. There was a clear need to explore better waste management in the region and how that improved management could benefit communities -- through improved environmental quality, community pride, local jobs, and revenue. The AOZWI is coordinated by Rural Action in partnership with the Voinovich School of leadership and Public Affairs at Ohio University and funded by the Sugar Bush Foundation, a supporting organization of the Ohio University Foundation.