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How can we reduce the amount of waste we generate?

How can we reduce the amount of waste we generate?

09/18/2025
Magda Cebrián

Did you know that you can reduce the amount of waste your business generates with simple and affordable alternatives?

Adopting a zero-waste approach doesn’t have to be more expensive or costly. Here are some changes you can make that, in addition to being good for the planet, offer direct benefits for you and your wallet.

Find out how!

Analyze the waste you create

The first step to start reducing waste is to know our starting point.

Do you know what waste you generate the most? We recommend starting by conducting a waste audit , or in other words, a more or less exhaustive analysis of the types and quantity of waste you generate daily or weekly in your business.

This is very important so you can identify where the greatest opportunities lie to start reducing . For example, you might find that you generate significant amounts of organic waste.

At this point, it’s time to ask yourself: Can I reduce the amount of organic waste I generate? If I’m not composting, can I find a project or community that manages it?

Analyze all the products we waste

Bulk, solid and refillable: more sustainable options

Your business may generate large quantities of single-use bags and packaging to sell your products to your customers.

Review your inventory and ask yourself if there is any way to offer the product in bulk or returnable format (for example in the case of beverages).

You can encourage the purchase of these products by offering a small discount to customers who bring their own bags and containers. This way, you can also build loyalty with a more environmentally conscious customer.

Reusable packaging option

Adopt packaging and bag reuse services

Another highly effective way to reduce waste is by reusing containers and bags . Instead of relying on single-use materials that quickly end up in the trash, reuse offers a sustainable alternative. Our Go Zero Waste container reuse service provides reusable containers and bags to suit different types of products and needs.

You can choose between using your own containers and bags or taking advantage of ours, which are 100% recyclable at the end of their useful life. Did you know that reuse can generate significant savings in packaging and attract a clientele that increasingly values sustainable practices?

Reusable containers and bags

Innovative reuse projects: technology and social commitment

The move towards a zero waste model is also based on the development of innovative projects that combine technology and social commitment .

Our initiative not only facilitates reuse through digital applications and tools, but also promotes social inclusion by creating opportunities for different groups in society .

Environmental education: raising awareness about responsible consumption

A fundamental step in reducing waste is raising awareness about the importance of responsible consumption . Environmental education activities play a key role in this regard, as they not only inform but also inspire people to adopt sustainable practices in their daily lives.

As part of some reuse services, educational materials are offered, such as posters, flyers, and stickers that you can display to inform your customers about the benefits of reusing and reducing waste.

This type of visibility helps create a community committed to sustainable trade , aligned with the goal of producing and consuming more consciously, in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 12) .

Our co-founder, Magda Cebrián, conducting a Circular Economy training course

Increase your sales and reduce operating costs

The transition to a sustainable business model not only benefits the environment but also your business. By offering reusable containers and bags, you can attract new customers interested in eco-friendly practices and, at the same time, reduce the costs associated with disposable packaging.

These economic benefits are reinforced by the possibility of using containers at no additional cost if you return them .

Furthermore, some businesses that adopt these sustainable practices choose to charge for single-use packaging, thus incentivizing customers to reuse. In the long run, these small changes contribute to reducing dependence on disposable products, generating economic savings and simultaneously fostering a cultural shift towards zero waste .

Investing in the circular economy saves you money

4 Steps to Reduce Waste in Your Daily Life

Reducing waste involves a change of mindset that begins with small steps:

Choose reusable containers and bags : you can use your own or choose those offered by reuse initiatives.
Download the free app to register and return containers at no cost.
Take advantage of environmental education activities : information and advertising material help create a culture of sustainability in your environment.
Raise awareness in your community : Informing others about the impact of their consumption choices and the value of sustainable trade is crucial to reducing overall waste.

Opportunity to move towards zero-waste trade

The shift towards a zero-waste model represents a unique opportunity for everyone, both consumers and businesses, to commit to the environment and responsible consumption.

Adopting these reuse services is not only a positive action for the planet, but also a step towards a circular economy , where the environmental impact is less and the value of products is maximized.

Reducing the amount of waste we generate doesn’t have to be complicated . With a few adjustments, we can all contribute to a cleaner, more responsible future!

New, more sustainable habits

Summary and conclusions

✅ Look at your trash. The first step is understanding what type and how much waste you generate. Knowing this helps you find the best opportunities to reduce it.

✅ Choose sustainability. A great way to reduce waste is to offer products in bulk or in refillable or reusable containers.

✅ Use reuse services. Relying on services that provide reusable containers and bags not only reduces your waste, but can also save you money on packaging.

✅ Education is key. Raising awareness about more responsible consumption, both in your business and in your community, is essential for lasting change.