Avoid these 5 zero waste mistakes

by Lydia on 06/11/2024 No comments

Embracing zero waste is a fantastic way to reduce your environmental impact. But let’s be honest, it can get confusing sometimes! There are many misconceptions and pitfalls to avoid. Don’t worry, we’ve all been there. In this post, we’ll address 5 common zero waste mistakes and share the secrets to set you on the path to success.

#1: Thinking zero waste means zero waste

Hold on a minute! Zero waste doesn’t mean absolutely no waste. It’s about reducing waste as much as possible and managing the waste you do have correctly. For example, cleaning and separating your recycling and composting your food waste.

Secret to success: Be kind to yourself – focus on progress, not perfection.


#2: Buying more stuff

Zero waste does not have to look a certain way, you don’t need a brand-new set of matching mason jars. Before spending lots of money, look at what you already have! Old jars, bottles and containers can be used to store food and drink.

Secret to success: Use what you have – don’t buy more stuff


#3: Choosing the wrong alternatives

Replacing single-use plastic with other single-use materials doesn’t reduce waste. Look for reusable alternatives made from safe, long-lasting materials like glass or stainless steel. These are your zero-waste heroes! Durable reusable plastic is also an option, but avoid using it for hot, fatty food.

Secret to success: Choose reusable over single-use


#4: Getting duped by greenwashing

Eco-marketing can be a minefield. Companies love buzzwords like “sustainable” and “ocean-friendly.” Don’t be fooled! Learn to spot vague claims and question if the product truly reduces waste. Check out our FREE guide to greenwashing to become a greenwashing detective!

Secret to success: Learn to spot greenwashing


#5: Thinking it’s all about your lifestyle

While individual choices matter, we also need to call for serious system change. Advocate for zero-waste infrastructure that makes reducing waste accessible for everyone. Such as supporting stores that offer refills, signing petitions and sharing this information with others. 

Secret to success: Support system change

We’ve got two carousels on Instagram that spread these important tips.


Remember, zero waste is a journey, not a destination. Embrace the process, learn from mistakes, and celebrate your achievements.

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LydiaAvoid these 5 zero waste mistakes

31 October 2024 : the month’s most important stories

by Lydia on 31/10/2024 No comments

Our roundup of the month’s most important stories

Bees are eating nano- and microplastics

A new study has shown bees are eating nano- and microplastics and using them to build nests. The plastic damages their digestive and immune systems. It also causes behavioural changes that prevent pollination and lead to ecosystem damage.

Official: waste is the dirtiest form of power after coal

BBC investigation has found burning household rubbish to make energy is the dirtiest way to produce power, just after coal. Incineration releases significant greenhouse gases, especially when burning plastic. Experts warn this “waste-to-energy” undermines climate goals and contributes to air pollution..

Scientists warn of microplastics exposure via makeup

Microplastic exposure from leave-on cosmetics like eye shadow and lipstick has been flagged as an area of serious concern. Scientists are calling for more research into the health impacts of prolonged skin contact with these common products and their petrochemical-based ingredients.

70% of plastic in a UK recycling scheme found burned abroad

In the UK it’s common to drop off soft plastics at supermarkets for recycling. But a recent investigation that tracked their journey revealed that 70% ended up being burned abroad, mostly in Türkiye. A damning report from the Environmental Investigation Agency reveals this was not an isolated incident.

More than half of plastic food packaging can be replaced

A recent study has shown that the majority of plastic food packaging across Europe can be replaced or eliminated altogether. The finding supports the calls for reusable packaging infrastructure that would reduce waste and the unhealthy reliance on plastic.

What do you think about these stories? Is there one we missed? Let us know in the comments!

Every month we round up the top stories from the world of plastic pollution – and the work being done to stop it. From aquatic pollution to zero waste, you’ll always be up to date with the latest research, trends and greenwashing tactics.

To sign up click here.

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Lydia31 October 2024 : the month’s most important stories

Beyond cleanups: Trash Hero in the community

by Lydia on 04/10/2024 No comments

Regular cleanups build trust and engagement within communities. Once trust has been established, volunteers can take our mission one step further through our Trash Hero Communities programme. 

Trash Hero Communities aims to create consensus for zero waste systems and lifestyles that can address the plastics crisis. Events range from educational presentations to implementing reuse systems at events. 

 Below we showcase a few examples from our chapters around the world.

Trash Hero Tuaran, Malaysia

Trash Hero Tuaran has been actively involved in local schools for several years, giving presentations and helping them reduce plastic waste. Their efforts have led to a strong relationship with the school community, resulting in an invitation to participate in a two-day exhibition on the 11 and 12 September. Other attendees included the Department of Health and the Lok Kawi Wildlife Park.

During the exhibition, the chapter leader Wallcon, promoted the Trash Hero mission, encouraged people to join cleanups and used our series of “Educate Yourself Zero Waste” posters to start important discussions with kids and teachers. Over 350 students attended and we hope to see them at future cleanups or joining our Trash Hero Kids programme

Trash Hero Pattani, Thailand

Trash Hero Pattani has hosted a variety of community events, including a “Repair Cafe” held on 31 August. Expert volunteers offered their skills to repair items free of charge, all attendees had to pay for was the cost of any new parts needed. At the inaugural session, six people volunteered their fixing skills, giving new life to bikes, electronics and clothing. These events, which now have a regular spot on the calendar, help to reduce waste and encourage people to think differently about consumption.

Trash Hero Indonesia

The Climate Policy Unit of the Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) invited Trash Hero Indonesia to a focus group discussion on public awareness and understanding of climate change. The discussions were held in several major cities across Indonesia, as the organisation strived to understand the best action to take to mitigate climate change. Trash Hero attended the discussion in Sanur in August, alongside lecturers, other NGOs and students. 

The opening question, “Do people understand climate change?” sparked a lively discussion among the 17 attendees. Trash Hero representatives challenged the view that everyone understands the causes of climate change. They highlighted the fact that the entire lifecycle of plastic contributes to climate change and this is not something that is widely recognised. This prompted discussion on the need to reduce plastic production by investing in reuse and refill initiatives.

Trash Hero Luzern,  Switzerland

Festivals are filled with single-use plastic, especially cups. The fields are left covered with trash that takes hours or even days to clean up. In 2017, Trash Hero Luzern helped the Sunset Beatz festival, held in Baldeggersee Lake, realise things had to change! Together, they developed a deposit return system for drinks. Festival-goers deposit $2 for a reusable cup, which they get back when the cup is returned. The new system has been used every year since, preventing the use of over 100,000 single-use plastic cups, and saving the organisers and volunteers hours of cleanup time! 

Trash Hero Nagekeo – Indonesia

Volunteers from Trash Hero Nagekeo collaborated with Soverdia Nagekeo to reduce single-use plastic at a conference in June: “Laudato si’ wajah bumi yang terluka”. Usually, such events rely heavily on single-use plastics, with water provided in single-use bottles or cups, lunch served in plastic boxes and many food items wrapped in plastic. 

To reduce plastic usage, volunteers approached local businesses, requesting reusable cups, glasses, plates and cutlery for the 400 attendees over 3 days. Some businesses donated items, while others agreed to loan them. The plates and glasses may all be different colours and sizes, but it’s a beautiful representation of how, with the help of passionate and dedicated volunteers, a community can come together to reduce plastic.

These examples demonstrate the diverse ways in which Trash Hero Communities can start long-term change. By going beyond cleanups and fostering sustainable practices, we can create a cleaner and healthier future for everyone. 

To learn more about our Trash Hero communities programmes click here. To find your nearest chapter and see if they can help your event go zero waste, click here

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LydiaBeyond cleanups: Trash Hero in the community

26 September 2024 : the month’s most important stories

by Lydia on 26/09/2024 No comments

Our roundup of the month’s most important stories

California sues ExxonMobil over false claims about recycling

ExxonMobil is being taken to court for misleading the public about the effectiveness of recycling. The state of California says the oil giant’s false claims have lead directly to an increase in plastic pollution. Environmental groups praised the lawsuit, saying it would hold the industry accountable.

Our bodies contain over 3,600 chemicals from food packaging

A Swiss study has found more than 3,600 chemicals used in food packaging inside the human body, including BPA and PFAS. These chemicals can migrate from packaging into food and may have long-term health impacts. The study highlights the need for more research into their migration and health effects.

Is plastic the biggest climate threat?

At New York Climate Week, researchers called for the world to focus on the role of plastics in global warming. This editorial argues that leaving plastic production out of any agreed fossil fuel phase down is a huge and dangerous loophole – but one that could be addressed in the new Global Plastics Treaty.

Fans protest K-Pop’s wasteful album production

K-pop activist group K4P protested outside Hybe’s headquarters, calling for the company to stop campaigns encouraging fans to buy multiple physical copies of albums and other plastic merchandise. A survey found 42.8% of K-Pop fans considered Hybe’s marketing tactics as the “worst business practice”. 

Volunteer-led initiative is helping temples go zero waste

Volunteers in Bengaluru are helping their local temples to go zero waste. The initiative promotes waste segregation, composting, and reducing single-use plastic in the offerings and involves both temple staff and visitors.

What do you think about these stories? Is there one we missed? Let us know in the comments!

Every month we round up the top stories from the world of plastic pollution – and the work being done to stop it. From aquatic pollution to zero waste, you’ll always be up to date with the latest research, trends and greenwashing tactics.

To sign up click here.

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Lydia26 September 2024 : the month’s most important stories

29 August 2024 : the month’s most important stories

by Lydia on 29/08/2024 No comments

Our roundup of the month’s most important stories

US surprises many by backing limits on plastic production

In a closed-door briefing, the White House signalled support for capping plastic production. No official announcement has been made, but industry groups have made clear they oppose the change. The shift sparks optimism for a more proactive approach to plastic pollution.

Microplastics make up 0.5% of human brain tissue

New studies reveal microplastics have infiltrated human brains, raising serious health concerns. Researchers urge global action to address plastic pollution as evidence mounts of its harmful effects on various organs. While the full extent of health risks is unclear, studies link microplastics to inflammation, cardiovascular issues, and fertility problems.

Plastic packaging linked to increased autism in boys

A recent study found a link between exposure to BPA, a chemical commonly used in plastic packaging, and increased autism risk in young boys. The study examined BPA levels in pregnant mothers and tracked their children’s development. The researchers found that higher BPA exposure was associated with a suppressed enzyme crucial for brain development. Leading to a greater likelihood of autism diagnosis.

Evian sued for false and deceptive marketing

Evian bottled water contains microplastics and BPA, contradicting its claims of sustainability and health benefits. The lawsuit seeks to stop parent company Danone from misleading consumers and raise awareness about the environmental and health impacts of plastic pollution.

Is your water bottle really made from recycled plastic?

This article highlights the lack of transparency in “mass balance” accounting for recycled plastic. While companies can claim products contain recycled plastic, the system doesn’t guarantee a specific amount, making it difficult for consumers to know the true content of products they purchase.

What do you think about these stories? Is there one we missed? Let us know in the comments!

Every month we round up the top stories from the world of plastic pollution – and the work being done to stop it. From aquatic pollution to zero waste, you’ll always be up to date with the latest research, trends and greenwashing tactics.

To sign up click here.

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Lydia29 August 2024 : the month’s most important stories

Digital Media Assistant – Remote working

by Lydia on 08/08/2024 1 comment

Trash Hero World is hiring! Please see below for job description. This position is 100% remote, and only open to Thai or Indonesian citizens resident in their country. We are unable to provide work permits or IMTAs.

This position offers flexible hours, with a minimum of 28 hours per week, available immediately. Applications will remain open until the position is filled.


Salary
– Based on location (local salary rates) and experience

About Trash Hero
Trash Hero World leads, supports and governs the global Trash Hero volunteer movement, which works for a clean world, free from plastic pollution.

The movement started with a beach cleanup project in Thailand in 2013 and has now grown to around 100 chapters (local groups) in communities in 13 different countries. A weekly cleanup is still the main focus, but volunteers also do other activities such as running a water bottle refill network, kids’ education and various forms of community outreach and zero waste advocacy.

Trash Hero World is registered as a non-profit association in Switzerland; registered Trash Hero country organisations also exist in the UK, Serbia, Indonesia, Thailand and Myanmar. Our global coordination team consists of around 10 people, with both full-time staff and volunteers.

Work Culture
We have an open, friendly and supportive work culture, with staff and volunteers working together at all levels of the organisation. We live the values of our Trash Hero Family and we are all personally committed to a zero waste future.

Our team works remotely, across borders and cultures. We have no physical offices. Team members connect over chat and meet regularly online during the week, at times that accommodate our respective time zones. Our working language is English.

Working hours are flexible and overtime and occasional weekend / out of hours work are considered part of the job. All working hours need to be documented.

Role description

You will be working within our programmes team to ensure we create the maximum impact possible with our work, from creating marketing materials to developing and transforming content ideas into engaging visual stories that are on-brand and on-strategy. 

You will produce a variety of static and multimedia content on a daily basis, across multiple platforms and often within tight timeframes. You will also be responsible for building our following on all social media channels, especially TikTok and YouTube, and posting all the content on the Trash Hero World channels.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

  • Create visual content (reels, carousels, infographics, stickers) for the Trash Hero World social media channels:
    Facebook
    Instagram
    LinkedIn
    TikTok
    YouTube
    Twitter
    in coordination with the Programmes team
  • Collaborate on editorial calendars and campaigns
  • Manage the day-to-day posting on all Trash Hero World channels
  • Provide insights by capturing and analysing appropriate social data/metrics and best practices
  • Maintain visual and brand style guides, including design templates
  • Produce programme materials (T-shirts, posters etc.) from templates
  • Maintain up-to-date specialist knowledge of issues relating to zero waste and plastic pollution, as well as Trash Hero’s areas of work, operations and policies 
  • Work with the Programmes team to produce education materials for volunteers and the general public
  • Identify areas where content and engagement could be improved
  • Undertake other activities to support the coordination team as required

Experience & Skills
Essential

  • 2+ years experience in a social media or videography role and / or a strong portfolio of work (video, graphic design, copywriting)
  • Comfortable working in English (B2 level or higher)
  • Accurate captioning skills
  • Comfortable working in Canva and Capcut
  • Knowledge of Adobe apps (Photoshop, Illustrator, Premiere)
  • Knowledge of best practices on major social media platforms
  • Excellent interpersonal communication
  • Instinct for cross-cultural communication
  • Highly organised, with meticulous attention to detail and standards
  • Ability to work alone
  • Ability to think creatively and strategically
  • Ability to act on initiative and exercise judgement
  • Ability to work quickly, work under pressure and meet deadlines

Desirable

  • Experience of working in a non-profit or other non-commercial environment
  • Understanding of issues surrounding plastic pollution, zero waste and circular economy
  • Familiarity with Southeast Asian culture
  • HTML / CSS / WordPress skills
  • Experience in creating educational materials

Recruitment timeline
STEP ONE: Applications should be made by email to info @ trashhero.org and include:

  1. your CV with 2 references
  2. a link to your portfolio or samples of previous work
  3. a cover letter OR personal video introduction (< 2 minutes) addressing why you want to work for Trash Hero
  4. a 30 second reel OR an infographic on the topic of reducing plastic use (suitable for posting on Trash Hero social media channels)

Incomplete applications will not be reviewed.

STEP TWO: Successful candidates will be contacted for an initial online interview.

STEP THREE: The second round will involve a period of (part-time) volunteering. Trash Hero is an organisation that depends entirely on volunteers, so this is a great opportunity to understand that dynamic, as well as allowing both sides to get to know each other before making a commitment. If all goes well, a formal job offer will follow.

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LydiaDigital Media Assistant – Remote working

29 July 2024 : the month’s most important stories

by Lydia on 29/07/2024 No comments

Our roundup of the month’s most important stories

Over 100 athletes ask Coca-Cola and PepsiCo to champion reuse

Over 100 elite athletes have signed an open letter to Coca-Cola and PepsiCo, urging them to use the Paris 2024 Olympics as a launchpad to increase reusable packaging and reduce single-use plastic. They highlighted the impact of plastic pollution on the environment and athletes’ health.

Shell backs away from pledge to increase “advanced recycling”

Shell has quietly abandoned their pledge to increase “advanced recycling” of plastic due to market challenges and regulatory uncertainty. Critics argue this technology is ineffective and polluting. Shell continues expanding plastic production.

Apparel industry leaks tonnes of plastic waste into environment

The global apparel industry is a major source of plastic pollution, with over 20 million tons of plastic waste generated in 2019. Synthetic clothing is the biggest culprit, but plastic packaging and waste management issues also contribute to the problem. This overlooked source of pollution is getting worse, highlighting the need for industry changes.

Retailers expand the culture of reuse in Germany

Germany, known for recycling, is trying to revive reusable packaging. Small shops offer products in refillable containers, but logistical challenges remain. Store owners believe it needs to be more convenient for people to reduce waste.

“We cannot achieve our climate goals without plastic reduction”

Plastic pollution is a growing crisis fueled by companies prioritising profits over environmental responsibility. This interview with Trash Hero Co-founder Roman Peter reveals the devastating impact of plastic waste, from littering to health risks, while exposing the recycling industry’s deceptive practices. He asks for a systemic shift towards reusable packaging and reduced plastic production. This Swiss article can be translated into English.

What do you think about these stories? Is there one we missed? Let us know in the comments!

Every month we round up the top stories from the world of plastic pollution – and the work being done to stop it. From aquatic pollution to zero waste, you’ll always be up to date with the latest research, trends and greenwashing tactics.

Sign up below to receive the alerts directly to your inbox. There’s no cost and no spam ever.

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Lydia29 July 2024 : the month’s most important stories

Are we eating plastic?

by Lydia on 24/07/2024 No comments

“Every week you consume a credit card’s worth of plastic.” You may have seen this claim on social media, but is it an urban myth or reality? We’re looking at why it might well be true.

How does plastic get into our food?

Modern-day food packaging is made almost exclusively from plastic – cling wrap, styrofoam boxes, and sachets are just a few examples. As plastic is used the surface breaks up into tiny particles. These are classified by their size. Microplastics are tiny fragments less than 5mm in length (roughly the size of a piece of rice). Even smaller, and invisible to the naked eye, are nanoplastics. These measure 100 nanometers (0.0001mm) or less. To visualise the difference, if a large piece of microplastic were the size of a football, a “large” nanoplastic would be the size of a sesame seed. For the purposes of this article, we’ll call all these fragments “microplastics”. 

Simply opening plastic packaging releases millions of microplastics into the atmosphere and our food.

Certain environments speed up the deterioration of plastic, meaning it releases even more particles. These include heat, such as from a microwave, and fat, grease and acidity from food. Direct contact with food is part of the reason microplastics end up on our plates, but they’re also found in products that haven’t been wrapped in plastic. So how do they get there? 

  • Environment: Microplastics contaminate soil and water. Plants absorb these, or they are ingested by livestock, passing into our fruit, vegetables and dairy products. 
  • Airborne microplastics: Plastic production, use, recycling and incineration release microplastics into the atmosphere, which are then inhaled by animals in the food chain.
  • Agriculture: Water containing microplastics is used for irrigation. Plastic mulch used to suppress weeds is ploughed into the soil where plants and vegetables grow. Even fertilisers are encapsulated in plastic
  • Processing: High temperatures during food processing can increase leaching from plastic equipment. Contact with vinyl gloves worn by food handlers, plastic tubing in processing machines, and the conveyor belt can contribute to the plastic in our meals. 

So one way or another, most of our food and drink contains some level of microplastic. Eating plastic raises serious concerns. But why is this? 

Chemicals in plastic

Up to 50% of plastic, by weight, is chemical additives. These are used to change how plastic behaves – for example making it flexible, hard, heat resistant, or stretchy – or to give it different colours or shine. A staggering 16,325 different chemicals have to date been identified, but the actual number is likely close to 100,000! You’ve probably heard of some already: 

  • Bisphenol A (BPA) hardens plastic
  • Phthalates make plastic soft and flexible
  • Flame retardants make plastic more resistant to heat

A significant portion (26%) of these additives are known hazardous chemicals. These chemicals are linked to issues like reproductive problems, breathing difficulties, increased risk of cancer and behavioural changes

An even larger chunk, 66%, are a mystery – scientists don’t know enough about them to say what their effects could be. Under current regulations, companies are not required to share full information about the ingredients in their plastic packaging. And many of the chemicals present are not even intentionally added – they are by-products of reactions between other additives. 

This is one of the issues with recycled plastic. Melting down and mixing different types of plastic to make a new material creates a complex “cocktail” of unknown chemicals, further complicating our understanding of the health risks.

A large body of independent research shows our constant exposure to the known chemicals in plastic, even at low levels, could pose a serious risk over time. However, the cumulative nature of microplastic exposure makes it difficult to identify the exact chemicals causing health issues. This lack of clarity is an issue for regulators. 

What regulations are there to protect us?

Some regulations are in place to limit harmful chemicals, but these vary depending on location and the specific types of plastic. The current approach relies on risk-based assessment. This means chemicals can be used freely with limited safety information and need to be proven hazardous before they are banned. This can take up to 20 years! It also allows for “regrettable substitution”, where companies can replace a banned chemical with a structurally similar one with a different name. A prime example is Bisphenol A (BPA). It was commonly found in reusable plastic water bottles until it became restricted due to safety concerns. It’s been replaced with other bisphenols, like BPS or BPF which are likely just as harmful.

Chemicals used in consumer goods and packaging should instead follow the precautionary principle. This says chemicals need to be proven safe before they can be used. With this approach, when there is not enough data to establish safety, we assume there may be risks. 

Negotiations for a global plastics treaty are well underway. Microplastics and chemical migration are high on the agenda. Scientists and activists are pushing for greater transparency in chemical use and a global shift towards the precautionary principle. The plastics industry is resisting, claiming the need for “trade secrets”, and saying a risk-based approach is enough. 

Join us in calling for a strong plastics treaty, that protects us against harmful chemicals, by signing this petition. To learn more about what a strong treaty looks like head to the dedicated section of our website.

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LydiaAre we eating plastic?

27 June : the month’s most important stories

by Lydia on 27/06/2024 No comments

Our roundup of the month’s most important stories

The microplastics map: which countries consume the most?

People consume microplastics through food and air. Recent studies have shown that the amount varies depending on your location. This microplastics map reveals which countries are consuming the most.

US state sues Coca-Cola and PepsiCo for plastic pollution

Baltimore takes legal action against plastic manufacturers, arguing they are responsible for plastic pollution harming the city’s environment and public health.  Baltimore joins a growing movement holding plastic companies accountable for pollution and its health consequences.

EU warns “delaying tactics” will block the globals plastics treaty

The EU has warned that other countries’ delays are endangering the global plastics treaty. The key sticking point is whether to set targets to reduce plastic production. A small group of countries want to limit the agreement to addressing plastic pollution, while others want to include reducing plastic production and consumption.

Exposing the myth of chemical recycling

Unveiling the smoke and mirrors of pyrolysis, this article exposes how the plastic recycling industry inflates recycled content figures. While touted as a magic bullet, pyrolysis reduces new plastic production by a tiny per cent. The journalist dives into the calculations creating a misleading perception of its effectiveness.

How a small Pacific island cut plastic pollution

Vanuatu used to have a big plastic pollution problem, but after community pressure for action, the government banned single-use plastics. While there is still work to be done, it has made a big difference.  

What do you think about these stories? Is there one we missed? Let us know in the comments!

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Lydia27 June : the month’s most important stories

The key to volunteer motivation: Trash Hero Family Meetings

by Lydia on 26/06/2024 No comments

What keeps Trash Hero volunteers organising regular cleanups year round? Perhaps the secret lies in our regular Trash Hero Family Meetings. Here, our chapter teams can network, share and better understand the “why” behind our actions. It’s an intense and often deep experience. As one volunteer from Thailand put it: “there is no other seminar as worthwhile to the soul and to the world“.

These meetings bring volunteers together for 3 days of: 

  • knowledge building: workshops and presentations on the issues surrounding plastic pollution
  • skill strengthening: building capacity for community leadership
  • boosting motivation: creating positive energy and inspiration through sharing and connecting with others

This year’s Family Meetings, held in Indonesia and Thailand, centred around a fundamental question: why do we do cleanups?  

The answer – which is not necessarily what people expect – shaped the rest of the content: to provide education about zero waste and build community engagement

  • Workshops encouraged volunteers to think critically about waste. We explored the big picture, understanding that litter is just a symptom of a larger systemic problem.
  • Informative presentations shared new knowledge about the impact plastic has on the climate and our health.
  • Group sessions looked at building trust in communities, leadership skills and effective communication. 
  • Games and quizzes helped keep everyone energised while also reinforcing the learning material.
  • A group cleanup showed the possibility for education, best practices and (in Indonesia) a brand audit.

The Indonesian gathering saw almost 60 participants travel from all corners of the country to Sanur, Bali from 31 May – 2 June.

In Thailand, the event took place from 7 – 9 June in Bangkok. It brought together participants from across Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Malaysia, Cambodia, Vietnam and Myanmar. Sessions took place in parallel in Thai and English, with volunteers happily mingling during the breaks and cleanup activity. As one volunteer from Malaysia said “language was no barrier at all when you feel and see the same things

The sessions with guest speakers, leadership coaches Pak Made Pay (Indonesia) and Khun Amnat (Thailand), proved very popular, with their insights into team building and the qualities needed for effective leadership. Thank you to both for sharing their wisdom, which will no doubt have an impact on our chapter teams. We hope to provide similar training to all volunteers soon.

Following the meetings, we sent out a feedback survey to all participants and the response was overwhelmingly positive. 100% of volunteers who replied felt more knowledgeable about both zero waste and plastic pollution, and 96% felt their motivation increased. One volunteer from Thailand commented: “the event made me know more about plastic waste, from the source to the solutions, with activities that connect people from different regions.”

Trash Hero World fully supports the family meetings, covering the travel, food, accommodation costs for all participants. We also handle the logistics and content design, creation and delivery. 

In July, volunteers from Trash Hero in Switzerland and Germany will hold a zero waste picnic to celebrate their hard work and support new chapter leaders. The shared experiences, the learning and the connections – these are the things that keep us all motivated in our mission to create a world free from plastic pollution.

Let’s keep the momentum going. 

Trash Hero Indonesia Family Meeting 31 May – 2 June

Location: Sanur, Bali

Participants: 57

Chapters: 27

Trash Hero Family Meeting Thailand 7-9 June

Location: Bangkok, Thailand

Participants: 40

Chapters: 22

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LydiaThe key to volunteer motivation: Trash Hero Family Meetings