November 16, 2023
That's a wrap on the Students for Zero Waste Conference! We are thrilled to share that 141 folks gathered in-person at Swarthmore College this past weekend, with students from over 30 campuses across the US joining us at the event or through digital watch parties.We're unbelievably grateful to all who shared space with us and supported in the months of prep leading up to the conference. Your visions for building an equitable zero waste world are what keep us going. We can't wait to see where all of you in the movement go next!
We started off the conference weekend with an impactful Environmental Justice field trip in Chester, PA, where organizers with CRCQL are doing critical work to protect their community against polluters, including the largest incinerator in the entire country (pictured behind our group here).
We toured the Recycled Artist in Residency (RAIR) facility, which challenges the perception of waste culture through art. RAIR is located within a construction waste recycling company, and offers artists studio space and access to reclaimed materials.
Finally, our host Swarthmore College offered a walking tour of their zero waste infrastructure! We learned about their composting processes, food waste categorization, and updated dining facilities.Shoutout to the Swarthmore Sustainability team for their incredible support hosting and preparing for the conference!
We started the conference weekend with our signature "Unconference" of attendee-led discussion groups. Saturday's panels dug into case studies of student leadership, pushed the boundaries of the Zero Waste Movement, and visioned for the future of both campuses and our broader communities. Then closed out the conference with a relaxed Sunday afternoon of brunch, crafting, and community building! We want to take another moment to express our gratitude to the sponsors and partners that made this weekend possible. There was an incredible spread of giveaways and tablers at the Zero Waste Activity Fair!
