Recognizing Businesses Leading in Zero Waste and Sustainability
From foundational efforts to industry shaping excellence, our certification program honors the real work behind real impact.
Bronze Certification
The Foundation of Sustainability
Bronze is where meaningful progress begins. Earning this certification means your organization has built a strong foundation for sustainable waste management—taking real action, reducing waste, and creating systems that prioritize environmental responsibility.
You've rolled up your sleeves, performed waste audits, made strategic improvements, and taken sustainability from a buzzword to a business value. This is your first big milestone—and the impact is already being felt.
Diversion rates of 80–89% (including verified energy-from-waste)
Silver Certification
Elevating Your Impact
Silver certification sets you apart as an industry leader in sustainability. You've gone beyond the basics—creating efficient waste systems, optimizing material use, and leading your team toward smarter, cleaner operations.
This level reflects a culture of continuous improvement and innovation. You're no longer just participating—you’re setting the bar for what sustainable business looks like.
Diversion rates of 90–94% (including verified energy-from-waste)
Gold Certification
A Benchmark for Excellence
Gold Certification recognizes businesses that have seamlessly integrated sustainability into the fabric of their operations. You've transformed waste diversion into a business strategy—one that drives efficiency, inspires your team, and influences your industry.
You're not following trends—you’re defining them. This is sustainability at scale, and it’s making a measurable difference.
Diversion rates of 95–98% (including verified energy-from-waste)
Platinum Certification
The Ultimate Standard in Zero Waste
Platinum is the pinnacle of Zero Waste achievement—the highest level of recognition for businesses that have made waste elimination a central part of their DNA. You’ve achieved near-total landfill diversion, influenced your supply chain, and shown that true sustainability is both scalable and profitable.
You're not just part of the movement—you
are the movement. This is environmental leadership at its most powerful.
Diversion rates of 99–100% (including verified energy-from-waste)
Certifications
Become a Certified
Zero Waste Business
From bold first steps to elite sustainability leadership, Absolute Zero Certification meets you where you are—and celebrates how far you’ve come.
Whether you're laying the groundwork or operating at near-zero waste, each level of certification reflects your commitment, credibility, and influence in creating a cleaner, smarter future.
How It Works
Your Path to Zero Waste Certification
Achieving certification is straightforward. Here's how:
Apply Online
Submit basic information
Submit Documentation
Provide details of your current waste management practices.
Review and Verification
We assess your diversion metrics and sustainability efforts.
Get Certified
Earn your badge and start showcasing your commitment.
Most certifications take 6–12 weeks and are valid for 1 year.
Building a Better Tomorrow,
One Bin at a Time