Revamped TRUE Certification Boosts Zero Waste Initiatives

Introduction to the Updated TRUE Certification

The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) has introduced an improved version of its TRUE certification program, which focuses on establishing a 'zero waste' standard for various facilities, construction projects, and events. This renewed standard reflects the evolving needs of businesses as they pursue sustainable waste management practices.

Changes in the Rating System

The updated program features a new rating framework known as Total Resource Use and Efficiency v2. This adjustment is designed to streamline the pre-existing requirements and highlight the financial advantages of reaching zero waste objectives. The USGBC asserts that organizations can benefit significantly from adopting these practices, especially amid increasing disposal costs and more limited landfill space.

Balancing Points for Certification

One of the critical aspects of the TRUE certification update is the rebalancing of its points system. This modification aims to better assist projects that are just beginning their journey toward zero waste, while still rewarding those that are high achievers in waste reduction. The organization aims to support a range of initiatives, allowing businesses at different stages of their sustainability efforts to thrive.

Support for Zero Waste Initiatives

For approximately ten years, the TRUE certification has been available, helping businesses streamline their waste diversion strategies. As waste outputs continue to rise, the need for a robust support system has become increasingly clear. The USGBC's commitment to this initiative is evident in the successful certification of over 680 projects, which collectively have diverted an impressive 8.9 million tons of waste from landfills.

Requirements for Certification

To obtain the TRUE certification, companies must meet specific criteria revolving around waste diversion, accurate data collection, staff training, and positive community impacts. Projects can earn up to 100 credit points through effective implementation of zero waste strategies, marking a shift from the previous version that allowed only up to 81 points. The categories for point allocation have undergone slight adjustments to better capture the current landscape of waste management.

A Pathway to Better Sustainability

Peter Templeton, the president and CEO of USGBC and Green Business Certification, emphasizes that the TRUE v2 standard provides businesses a clearer path toward improving their zero waste performance and demonstrating progress in their sustainability efforts. By focusing on high-impact actions that are often challenging to implement, the updated certification seeks to bolster both sustainability goals and long-term business resilience.

Continuity of Core Requirements

While the TRUE v2 retains many of the original program's requirements, it still mandates that projects achieve a minimum diversion rate of 90%. Additionally, projects must follow recognized diversion strategies including reduction, reuse, composting, recycling, or anaerobic digestion. Notably, the standard does not recognize incineration or waste-to-energy processes as valid diversion methods.

Conclusion

The revamp of the TRUE certification program signifies the USGBC's commitment to fostering sustainable practices. By providing a more effective framework for businesses and events aiming for zero waste, the initiative paves the way for better environmental stewardship and enhances operational efficiency.