“Zero waste” originated as an industrial concept that encourages the redesign of resource life cycles so that all materials are reused. Today, the “zero waste lifestyle” has emerged as many individuals and communities attempt to live packaging-free, plastic-free, and minimalist. In this class, we will tailor the principles of ZW to fit the needs and limitations of the average college student. Aside from learning how a person (or a company, a city, or an industry) goes about reducing their waste output, the curriculum contains a variety of both fun and educational topics. Each of these topics are covered for 1-3 weeks: the science of modern landfills, the history of trash, personal zero waste, industrialized food, climate change & politics, sustainable cities & architecture, and cradle-to-cradle design. This course is a comprehensive Everything You Need to Know About the Planet 101, and past students agree that it will invariably change your life and make you see the world differently.

For a pass, you must complete short readings with weekly 5-10 question quiz, an online final exam, and attendance and participation will be graded. This is not a vigorous course, and the graded portion exists only to ensure that attention and respect are paid.

This course is first come, first serve, and students from all majors and years are encouraged to enroll. First, please enter your email into the Google Form below. You may then enroll. The CCN is 26334.