The consumption of all goods—from food to electronics, clothing to furniture—generates waste at the end of the product’s lifecycle. Although this waste can be managed through composting, recycling, and even upcycling, most waste is burned around the world, causing emission of carbon dioxide and other harmful gases. Improper disposal causes additional environmental problems. To date, most regional and national waste policies are focused on waste management: ending environmentally harmful ways of disposing waste and increasing the share of substances that are kept in use. Waste prevention is not given enough attention.
Since waste prevention essentially has to occur at the local level, this course examines the context and challenges of waste prevention and innovative approaches that can be found at the local level in two countries with strong federal systems: Germany and the United States. Drawing on local case studies from these countries, it addresses innovative approaches that are adopted by municipalities, local business, and civil society actors. Students will explore the preconditions, challenges and effects of adopting and implementing such measures.