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Zero Waste for All? Sustainable Practices in a Small-Scale Zero Waste Community from a Universal Design Perspective

Author

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  • Anna-Sara Fagerholm

    (Department of Design Sciences, Lund University, LTH, Box 118, 221 00 Lund, Sweden
    Department of Natural Science, Design and Sustainable Development, Mid Sweden University, Holmgatan 10, 852 30 Sundsvall, Sweden)

  • Henrik Haller

    (Department of Natural Science, Design and Sustainable Development, Mid Sweden University, Holmgatan 10, 852 30 Sundsvall, Sweden)

  • Anders Warell

    (Department of Design Sciences, Lund University, LTH, Box 118, 221 00 Lund, Sweden)

  • Per-Olof Hedvall

    (Department of Design Sciences, Lund University, LTH, Box 118, 221 00 Lund, Sweden
    Department of Natural Science, Design and Sustainable Development, Mid Sweden University, Holmgatan 10, 852 30 Sundsvall, Sweden)

Abstract

Since 2003, Kamikatsu in Japan has established a sustainable zero-waste practice that has achieved a recycling rate exceeding 80%. By exploring how the community has shaped itself around the zero-waste concept, this paper aims to enhance our understanding of zero waste in practice from a universal design perspective. Interviews and photo documentation were used to gather data. The zero-waste concept was not driven by technical solutions. Instead, the results highlight what initiatives contributed to the design of the zero-waste concept. Key themes presented include fostering a lifestyle shift, changing norms, creating co-located experiences, establishing an incentive system, and developing self-awareness routines. The paper also addresses the challenges and opportunities from a universal design perspective when applying zero waste, emphasizing the importance of designing for diverse needs while promoting long-term environmental sustainability. This research contributes to the understanding of zero waste practices, combining the ecological dimension with the social dimension of sustainable development.

Suggested Citation

  • Anna-Sara Fagerholm & Henrik Haller & Anders Warell & Per-Olof Hedvall, 2025. "Zero Waste for All? Sustainable Practices in a Small-Scale Zero Waste Community from a Universal Design Perspective," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(9), pages 1-22, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:9:p:4092-:d:1647733
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    References listed on IDEAS

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