Zero Waste Facility Certification
Recognition and verification for facilities demonstrating documented Zero Waste progressZero Waste Facility Certification is a recognition and verification program for facilities that are working to reduce waste, improve material management, strengthen documentation, and demonstrate progress that meets Zero Waste Canada criteria.
Zero Waste Canada is the certification authority for the Zero Waste Facility Certification program. HSR Zero Waste supports applicants with readiness review, documentation preparation, process guidance, and certification support. Applicants lead the implementation of their Zero Waste practices, along with tracking performance and preparing the documentation needed for review.
The program includes two main phases:
- Phase 1: On the Road to Zero Waste Recognition
- Phase 2: Zero Waste Facility Certification
Facilities that continue through the certification process and meet the applicable criteria may achieve Zero Waste Facility Certification at the Silver, Gold, or Platinum level.
What Is Zero Waste Facility Certification?
Zero Waste Facility Certification provides a structured recognition and verification pathway for facilities that want to document Zero Waste practices, track progress, and demonstrate verified performance.
The process begins by reviewing the facility’s resource use, current practices, documentation, and opportunities for improvement. This supports targeted action and helps distinguish genuine, documented Zero Waste progress from inconsistent or unsupported Zero Waste claims.
To get started, facilities are encouraged to explore the International Zero Waste Definition and the International Zero Waste Hierarchy. These resources provide a clear foundation for decision-making and help align facility efforts with internationally accepted Zero Waste principles.
Final recognition or certification is issued by Zero Waste Canada based on the facility’s submitted documentation, verification process, and demonstrated level of progress.
Recognition and Certification Pathway
Zero Waste Facility Certification follows a two-phase pathway.
Phase 1: On the Road to Zero Waste Recognition
On the Road to Zero Waste Recognition acknowledges that a facility has core structures in place to begin working toward Zero Waste Certification.
This recognition shows that the facility has acknowledged the challenge, started building systems, and demonstrated a commitment to addressing waste on-site.
On the Road to Zero Waste Recognition is an important first step, but it does not yet mean that the facility has achieved Zero Waste Certification.
Phase 2: Zero Waste Facility Certification
After achieving On the Road to Zero Waste Recognition, eligible facilities may continue toward Zero Waste Facility Certification.
Zero Waste Facility Certification includes three levels of performance: Silver, Gold, and Platinum. Each level reflects the facility’s progress, documentation, and verified performance against the applicable criteria.
Zero Waste Facility Certification is valid for 12 months. After that period, facilities can demonstrate that they have maintained their level of performance or are ready to move forward to the next level.
How To Start Your Zero Waste Facility Certification Journey
Submit an Interest Form
Start by submitting an interest form so the certification support team can learn more about your facility, goals, eligibility, and readiness.
Complete an Introductory Call
During the introductory call, HSR Zero Waste can answer questions, review the program pathway, and learn more about your facility’s operations, timeline, and goals.
Complete a Readiness Review
The readiness review helps confirm your facility’s current practices, available documentation, operational scope, and recommended pathway toward recognition or certification.
Register for the Program
Facilities that are ready to move forward complete the registration process and receive the program information needed to begin working toward recognition or certification.
Work Toward On the Road to Zero Waste Recognition
Facilities may begin by working toward On the Road to Zero Waste Recognition. This milestone acknowledges that the facility has put important structures in place and is actively committed to progressing toward Zero Waste Certification.
On the Road to Zero Waste Recognition is an encouraging first step and does not mean that the facility has already achieved Zero Waste Certification.
Continue Toward Zero Waste Facility Certification
After achieving On the Road to Zero Waste Recognition, eligible facilities can continue their journey toward Zero Waste Facility Certification.
Zero Waste Facility Certification includes Silver, Gold, and Platinum levels. Each level reflects your continued progress, expanding documentation, and verified performance as you build on what you’ve already accomplished.
Our Certification Support Team
Zero Waste Canada is the certification authority for the Zero Waste Facility Certification program. HSR Zero Waste works alongside applicants as the program consultant.
HSR Zero Waste provides readiness reviews, documentation preparation, process guidance, and certification support. Zero Waste Canada is responsible for the final review, recognition, and certification decisions.
Applicants continue to lead their own Zero Waste efforts, including implementing practices, tracking performance, and submitting documentation.
Benefits of Certification
Zero Waste Facility Certification provides a recognized pathway for facilities to document, verify, and communicate Zero Waste progress.
Participating facilities may experience:
- Environmental leadership through documented waste reduction and resource efficiency
- Cost savings through improved reuse policies, material substitutions, and reduced hauling fees
- Employee engagement by empowering staff to support shared sustainability goals
- Impact measurement through stronger tracking, reporting, and documentation
- Brand recognition through official Zero Waste Canada recognition or certification
- Visibility and connection with a broader Zero Waste community
- Participant resources and support through Zero Waste Canada
Understanding Silver, Gold, and Platinum Certification Levels
Zero Waste Facility Certification includes Silver, Gold, and Platinum levels that reflect a facility’s verified progress through the certification process.
Each level is based on the facility’s documentation, implementation, and performance against the applicable program criteria.
To learn more, download the Silver, Gold, and Platinum Certification Levels guide above.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of facilities can apply?
Zero Waste Facility Certification can apply to many facility types, including buildings, venues, campuses, offices, hotels, restaurants, manufacturing facilities, warehouses, schools, healthcare facilities, community spaces, and other operational sites.
Does my facility need to already be Zero Waste before applying?
No! Facilities can begin by exploring their current practices, reviewing available documentation, and identifying opportunities for improvement. The first step is to submit an interest form so the support team can learn more about your facility and recommended pathway.
Does On the Road to Zero Waste Recognition mean my facility is certified?
No! On the Road to Zero Waste Recognition acknowledges that a facility has core structures in place and is working toward Zero Waste Certification. It does not indicate that the facility has achieved Zero Waste Certification.
What recognition can a facility receive?
Facilities may first receive On the Road to Zero Waste Recognition. As they continue through the certification process, they may then achieve Zero Waste Facility Certification at the Silver, Gold, or Platinum level, depending on the applicable criteria and verified level of progress.
How long is Zero Waste Facility Certification valid?
Zero Waste Facility Certification is valid for 12 months. After that period, facilities must demonstrate that they have maintained their level of performance or met the criteria for the next level.
What documents may be needed?
Documentation may include waste audits, facility assessments, diversion tracking reports, policies, procurement guidelines, operational procedures, staff engagement materials, and other materials related to the certification criteria.
How do I get started?
Submit an interest form to connect with the certification support team. The team will learn more about your facility, goals, readiness, and recommended next steps.
Ready to Explore Zero Waste Facility Certification?
If your facility is working to document Zero Waste progress and prepare for recognition or certification, begin by submitting an interest form.
The certification support team will review your facility type, goals, readiness, and recommended next steps.
