Celebrating the United Nations’ International Day of Zero Waste: A Call to Action on Global Waste and Fashion
Written by James Beiny, ESG manager
The scale of waste pollution worldwide
The consumption of the Earth’s natural resources is wreaking havoc on our life-supporting ecosystems. Every year, small businesses, public service providers and households produce 2.1–2.3 billion tonnes of municipal solid waste, ranging from food to plastics to electronics. The global waste management system, however, remains ill-equipped to handle this mounting burden. This is highlighted by the fact that approximately 40% of municipal solid waste is not managed in controlled facilities and 2.7 billion people lack access to waste collection services. As landfills overflow and pollution levels rise, the need for more efficient waste management and sustainable practices has never been more pressing.
A focus on waste in the fashion and textile sector
On 30 March 2025, the world celebrates the United Nations’ International Day of Zero Waste. The focus this year is on raising awareness of the amount of waste generated by the fashion and textile sector. The textile sector accounts for 2–8% of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and consumes 215 trillion litres of water. Additionally, the fashion industry produces around 92 million tonnes of textile waste every year; this equates to a refuse truck full of clothing being sent to landfill or incineration every second. All this waste not only damages our environment, but causes severe social and economic consequences worldwide, particularly in the Global South where the impact is most deeply felt. Reducing waste in the fashion industry is therefore critical and consumers can provide vital support; for example, a 44% reduction in GHG emissions could be achieved by doubling the number of times a garment is worn.
How is Ward tackling its waste?
At Ward, we are committed to minimising waste and supporting the transition to a circular economy. The circular economy is a system where different processes, such as recycling and composting, are used to keep products and materials in circulation. Importantly, by eliminating the production of waste, a circular economy can help to tackle climate change, biodiversity loss and other global challenges. In 2023, we donated 80 used plain and unbranded uniforms to Suited & Booted, a London-based charity that helps vulnerable, unemployed and low-income individuals secure employment. By giving these uniforms a second life, we not only contributed to reducing waste but also supported people in need with professional clothing for their job search. We also carefully measure and monitor the amount of waste produced by our offices, in which we strive to increase the amount of recycled waste. In 2023, 42% of our office waste was recycled and we are working hard to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfill.
Another key measure Ward is taking to decrease waste is through employee education. Led by our ESG Manager, we launched an ESG training programme in Q3 2024 that covers a range of core topics, one of which is the circular economy. Available to all staff via the company’s learning management system, the training aims to improve their understanding of the importance of the circular economy and how Ward is adopting circular practices in its business operations. In 2025, we will expand this training to ensure that everyone at Ward can effectively contribute to cutting waste at work and in their personal lives.
The International Day of Zero Waste serves as a reminder of the urgent need to reduce waste, rethink our consumption habits, and support businesses that prioritise sustainability. By making conscious choices, whether in the fashion industry or in our daily routines, we can all play a part in advancing the circular economy and ensuring a healthier, more sustainable future.
