Who we are
We’re Scotland’s circular economy public body, working with government, business, and communities to rewire the economy from our current “take, make, waste” model to one where we make the most of the materials we have.
What we do
We know the biggest cause of climate change is overconsumption – where society puts too much pressure on earth’s finite resources through our “take, make, waste” economic model.
We work with government, business, and communities to rewire the economy from our current model to one where we make the most of the materials we have. This is known as a circular economy and it’s the right choice if we want to create a more equal and just society for all.
We’re Scotland’s circular economy public body. Since 2014, our work has helped more people understand that the answer to the climate emergency is to consume less. Through an expansive range of projects and programmes, our innovative work has shown that embedding circular practices is as possible as it is essential.
Through sharing this knowledge, nurturing relationships, and bold collaboration, we’re in a truly unique position to influence this vital change.
Our aims
Help people care
We advocate for change, by informing why we must reduce overconsumption of natural resources and demonstrating how we can do it.
Make circularity easier
We identify and implement the conditions required to enable circular economies to flourish across Scotland.
Do more where it matters most
We inform and support accelerated change in key sectors that require high levels of raw materials.
Improve infrastructure
We evidence and demonstrate the infrastructure to keep materials in constant use.
Executive NDPB Framework Agreement
This framework document is agreed between Zero Waste Scotland and Scottish Ministers. It summarises how Zero Waste Scotland and Scottish Government will work together, and the key roles and responsibilities of:
- the Board
- the Chief Executive and Accountable Officer of Zero Waste Scotland;
- the Scottish Ministers; and
- the Portfolio Accountable Officer within the Scottish Government whose remit includes Zero Waste Scotland.
What is a circular economy?
A circular economy is part of the solution to our global climate emergency - one in which products, services, and systems are designed to maximise their value and minimise waste.
It’s an all-encompassing approach to life and business, where everything has value and nothing is wasted. In simple terms, it can be explained as 'make, use, remake' as opposed to 'make, use, dispose'.
Who is the CEO of Zero Waste Scotland?
Iain Gulland is Zero Waste Scotland’s founding Chief Executive and was the Programme Director of the predecessor programme, WRAP Scotland.
Previously, Iain worked with initiating recycling systems in the public, private, and third sectors, and led the Community Recycling Network, Scotland until 2008.
Iain was named the ‘most influential person in the UK waste and resource efficiency sector’ by Resource Magazine (2014) and was granted fellowship of the Chartered Institution of Waste Management in 2016.
Support we offer
Zero Waste Scotland provides leadership and practical support to encourage the growth of the circular economy in Scotland. Whether you’re a private citizen or a business owner, a local authority employee or a community group member, we have a wide range of information and advice available.