The ultimate goal of a zero-waste city is to eliminate the need for waste disposal through incineration or landfilling. Instead, the city aims to recover all resources and materials from waste and return them to the economy in a circular manner.

What is Zero Waste and Why Do We Need It?
An ecosystem is a functional system and a dynamic complex of biotic (living) communities comprising plants, animals, and microorganisms in constant interactions with abiotic (non-living) components.¹ The ecosystem of our planet is the biggest functioning ecosystem that sustains life. This ecosystem is sustaining due to its vital characteristics that include the presence of biotic and abiotic elements in an optimum proportion with a measurable degree of diversity, a relative degree of resilience to change as well as the capacity to adapt to changes, net flow of energies in and out of the system and a carrying capacity.² Human beings are the only species in the biosphere (the top end ecosystem) with the proclivity to interfere with and encroach into the natural cycles of the ecosystem. With this exceptional ability to expand our habitat and colonize the diverse ecosystem either by adapting to it or by introducing modification to it, human beings have proven themselves to be the fittest of the communities. Human beings are the only species which used its intelligence to modify the natural ecology through technological advances to overcome the forces of nature. However, in this endeavor, human beings have gone to an extent that the ecosystem is facing the challenge of sustainability today. As mentioned in the previous lines, the ecosystem possesses certain characteristics that make production of waste as a result of human activities and interference with nature, inevitable. The more we interfere with nature to bring for ourselves a comfortable life through innovation, inventions and consumption, the more waste is produced. As human beings are the only species which interfere with the ecosystem, so we also become the only species that produces inorganic waste. With increasing population and mass production-consumption driven economy, today we have reached a point where waste produced by human beings represents the biggest challenge to the sustainability of the ecosystem. Due to rapidly increasing population and consumption-driven economic structures, enormous amount of waste is produced in the cities. Resources from all over the biosphere are funneled into the world’s mega cities to meet the rising consumption demands, driven by accelerating globalization, urbanization, and affluence. Increasing populations and industrial development have led to rapid and intense level of urbanization. It is also significant that in most of the cities of the world, waste management has not been given as much attention as has been given to other aspects of urban planning like energy supplies, water supplies and road infrastructure, etc. 

Modern zero waste cities represent a proactive and innovative approach to waste management, aiming to minimize waste generation and maximize resource recovery in order to create sustainable and environmentally-friendly urban environments.

Historically the concept and the need of waste management emerged with the emergence of human civilization. Throughout history, waste management has gone through an evolution comprising six phases.

Annually, Pakistan generates approximately 49.6 million tons of solid waste, with a yearly increase of 2.4 percent.

As shown in figure 1, the journey of waste management started with the emergence of human beings on the planet. The method used in this regard was open dumping of the waste; however, soon with the emergence of human civilization, uncontrolled landfills and composting became the widely used techniques forming the second and third phase of waste management. Recycling and controlled landfill was the fourth phase that started from production of paper through recycled waste in Philadelphia, USA. Increased demand for resources owing to industrialization and urbanization along with political dynamics affecting the supply resources made the need for recycling popular across the globe while also giving impetus to the next phase of waste management where waste-to-energy technologies were developed. It also included waste treatment and recycling for resource recovery. During these phases of innovation in waste management, major emphasis has been on managing the waste in a manner that it should minimize damages to the environment. Hazardous and non-hazardous waste is collected from cities and diverted to landfills with the aim to save the human beings as well as ecology from its negative consequences. Some of the waste is also burnt in a controlled environment while a big chunk of it is burnt in open air. A major innovation in waste management was the effort to recycle the waste to the maximum extent possible. In conventional waste management, this thought was present at a rudimentary level. However, the concept of zero waste is not just about managing the waste, but also about reducing the amount of waste being produced due to irresponsible consumptive behavior. Zero waste systems through behavioral changes, sustainable and responsible consumption, cradle-to-cradle design, responsible production and consumption and 100% resource recovery through recycling is the most advanced phase. Dr. Paul Palmer, an American chemist³, was the first to coin the term ‘zero waste’ in 1973 for recovering resources from chemicals. Though the concept has gained great significance since then, yet no agreed upon definition of it can be found. A structured definition given by Zero Waste International Alliance defines zero waste as designing and managing products and processes to systematically avoid and eliminate the waste of materials and to conserve and recover all resources. 
Zero Waste Cities
A zero waste city is a city that has implemented a comprehensive waste management system that prioritizes the prevention and reduction of waste generation, followed by the reuse, recycling, and recovery of waste materials.⁴ The ultimate goal of a zero waste city is to eliminate the need for waste disposal through incineration or landfilling. Instead, the city aims to recover all resources and materials from waste and return them to the economy in a circular manner. This approach to waste management is based on the principles of circular economy, which aims to keep materials and resources in use for as long as possible, while minimizing waste generation and resource depletion.⁵
Modern zero waste cities represent a proactive and innovative approach to waste management, aiming to minimize waste generation and maximize resource recovery in order to create sustainable and environmentally-friendly urban environments. These cities implement a range of strategies, including advanced recycling programs, efficient waste segregation, composting initiatives, and public awareness campaigns to promote waste reduction and recycling practices.⁶ In addition, zero waste cities prioritize the development of sustainable infrastructure and systems, such as decentralized waste treatment facilities and waste-to-energy technologies, to further minimize waste sent to landfills and incinerators.⁷ By adopting a circular economy approach, these cities strive to create closed-loop systems, where waste is seen as a valuable resource that can be reused, recycled, or repurposed.⁸ Furthermore, zero waste cities foster collaboration among government entities, businesses, communities, and individuals to achieve common waste reduction goals and promote a culture of sustainability.⁹ Table 1 shows a list of top ten zero waste cities. Through their commitment to sustainable waste management practices, modern zero waste cities play a crucial role in minimizing environmental impact, conserving resources, and creating healthier and more livable urban environments.
International Best Practices and Associated Challenges
International best practices in zero waste cities encompass a range of strategies and approaches aimed at minimizing waste generation, maximizing resource recovery, and promoting sustainable lifestyles. These practices have been implemented in various cities around the world and have proven successful in achieving significant waste reduction and environmental benefits. Some notable examples of international best practices in zero waste cities include:
▪    San Francisco is often cited as a global leader in zero waste initiatives. The city has implemented comprehensive waste management programs, including extensive recycling and composting infrastructure, strict waste reduction policies, and public education campaigns. As a result, San Francisco has achieved an impressive diversion rate of over 80%, meaning the majority of its waste is recycled or composted rather than sent to landfill.
▪    Kamikatsu is a small town in Japan that has set a bold goal of becoming a zero-waste community by 2020. The town's residents are required to segregate their waste into 45 different categories for recycling and composting. Through a combination of strict waste separation policies, community engagement, and innovative recycling initiatives, Kamikatsu has made significant progress in minimizing waste and achieving high recycling rates.
▪     Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, has implemented a holistic approach to waste management, focusing on waste prevention, recycling, and public participation. The city has implemented door-to-door waste collection, extensive recycling infrastructure, and educational programs to promote sustainable practices among its residents. These efforts have resulted in high recycling rates and a significant reduction in waste sent to landfill.
▪  Adelaide, Australia has adopted a zero waste strategy that emphasizes waste reduction, recycling, and resource recovery. The city has implemented a comprehensive recycling and composting program, supported by education and awareness campaigns. Adelaide has also established a resource recovery park where waste materials are sorted, processed, and transformed into valuable resources. These initiatives have helped the city achieve significant waste diversion rates.
▪   Penang, Malaysia has implemented a successful zero waste program that includes waste segregation, recycling, and composting initiatives. The city has established recycling centers, composting facilities, and organic waste management systems to divert waste from landfills. Penang's efforts have resulted in a substantial reduction in waste disposal and increased recycling rates.
These examples highlight the diverse approaches and strategies employed by different cities to achieve zero waste goals. They demonstrate the importance of comprehensive waste management systems, public participation, education and awareness campaigns, and supportive infrastructure in driving the transition towards zero waste cities. 
Zero Waste Cities and Sustainability Challenge
The need for zero waste is not the sole outcome of the humongous challenge of managing the rapidly increasing waste, but its another dimension is resource scarcity. As we know, many non-renewable natural resources are depleting at a rapid pace due to population boom as well as intensified industrial activity. However, the finite quantities of these resources are a big threat as the ability to meet the needs of future generation is being compromised. Sustainability, as defined by the United Nations (UN), refers to the ability to meet the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.¹¹ It encompasses the concept of balancing social, economic, and environmental dimensions to ensure long-term well-being and development. The UN developed a comprehensive framework known as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)¹² to address various global challenges and guide countries towards sustainable development. These goals encompass 17 interconnected objectives that cover a wide range of issues, including poverty eradication, climate action, gender equality, clean energy, responsible consumption and production, and biodiversity conservation. Sustainability, according to the UN, involves promoting economic growth and prosperity while simultaneously protecting the environment and ensuring social inclusion and equity. It recognizes the interdependence between economic, social, and environmental factors and emphasizes the need for integrated and holistic approaches to development.
The UN encourages sustainable practices that minimize resource depletion, reduce environmental degradation, and mitigate climate change. It promotes the adoption of sustainable technologies, the efficient use of resources, and the development of inclusive and resilient societies that leave no one behind. As per the UN, sustainability is about finding a harmonious balance between economic development, social progress, and environmental protection to ensure the well-being of present and future generations. It is a global commitment to creating a sustainable and inclusive world that addresses pressing challenges while preserving the planet for future generations.
The depletion of finite global resources necessitates the adoption of resource and product stewardship, leading to the concept of zero waste management in sustainable cities. Developing sustainable cities poses significant challenges, and waste management stands out as a crucial aspect in their design. Industrialized cities with high levels of consumption face specific socioeconomic and environmental issues related to paper waste, over-packaging, food waste, and e-waste. The concept of zero waste involves systematic product and process design to minimize waste, conserve resources, and recover materials from waste streams. The aim is for zero waste cities to recycle all waste or extract all possible resources, leaving no harmful waste behind; however, achieving the vision of zero waste cities from a holistic perspective presents considerable difficulties.
The Role of Urban Planning
Urban planning plays a crucial role in the development and implementation of zero waste cities. It involves the deliberate design, organization, and management of urban spaces, infrastructure, and services to promote sustainable waste management practices. The following are key aspects of urban planning that contribute to the establishment of zero waste cities:
▪ Integrated Waste Management Systems. Urban planning enables the integration of waste management systems into the fabric of the city. This includes designing efficient waste collection, segregation, and recycling systems, as well as establishing appropriate treatment and disposal facilities. By strategically locating waste management infrastructure and services, urban planning optimizes resource recovery and minimizes the environmental impact of waste.
▪ Zoning and Land Use. Urban planning determines the allocation of land for different purposes, including waste management facilities, recycling centers, composting sites, and material recovery facilities. Proper zoning ensures that waste-related infrastructure is appropriately located, considering factors such as proximity to residential areas, transportation networks, and environmental considerations. Effective land use planning minimizes conflicts between waste management activities and other urban functions.
▪ Sustainable Infrastructure. Urban planning incorporates sustainable infrastructure design principles into waste management systems. This includes promoting the use of energy-efficient technologies, designing waste treatment and recycling facilities that minimize environmental impact, and integrating renewable energy sources into waste management processes. Sustainable infrastructure reduces resource consumption, minimizes pollution, and enhances the overall efficiency of waste management systems.
▪ Community Engagement. Urban planning fosters community involvement and participation in waste management initiatives. It includes raising public awareness about waste reduction, recycling, and proper disposal practices. Engaging the community through educational programs, public consultations, and outreach campaigns promotes behavioral changes and encourages active participation in waste management efforts.
▪ Circular Economy Principles. Urban planning embraces the principles of the circular economy in waste management strategies. By promoting a shift from a linear "take-make-dispose" model to a circular approach, urban planning encourages resource conservation, material recovery, and the reuse of materials. It supports the development of circular supply chains, facilitates the integration of waste as a resource, and promotes the concept of a closed-loop system within the city.
Zero Waste Cities in Pakistan
Pakistan faces significant challenges in solid waste management, exacerbated by excessive consumption, inadequate waste management infrastructure, and limited public awareness. Annually, the country generates approximately 49.6 million tons of solid waste, with a yearly increase of 2.4 percent.¹³ The majority of municipal waste is either burned, dumped, or buried in open spaces, posing environmental and health risks.¹⁴ Karachi, Pakistan's largest city alone generates over 16,500 tons of municipal waste daily. Inadequate waste management equipment, bureaucratic hurdles, and a lack of urban planning further contribute to the problem.¹⁵ Solid waste management capabilities vary across provinces in Pakistan. In Punjab, Lahore is the only city with a proper solid waste management, treatment, and disposal system, which has been outsourced to Turkish companies. Sindh Solid Waste Management Board (SSWMB) aims to improve waste management services in 20 cities within the Sindh province.¹⁶ The Water and Sanitation Services Peshawar (WSSP) in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) plans to construct a sanitary landfill.¹⁷ However, Balochistan, with a population of 6.9 million, currently lacks significant waste management infrastructure.¹⁸ The prevailing mindset towards waste as something unwanted and to be discarded exacerbates the solid waste management crisis in the urban areas of Pakistan. Addressing the solid waste management challenge in Pakistan requires a comprehensive approach that involves enhancing waste management infrastructure, promoting public awareness, and fostering a circular economy mindset. Improving waste collection systems, investing in treatment and disposal facilities, and establishing proper landfill sites are essential steps in managing solid waste effectively. Simultaneously, public education campaigns and initiatives can promote responsible waste disposal practices and encourage waste reduction and recycling. Embracing the principles of a circular economy, which prioritize resource conservation and the recovery of materials from waste streams, can help minimize waste generation and optimize resource use. Collaborative efforts involving government bodies, local communities, and private sector stakeholders are crucial to tackle the solid waste management issue holistically. At present, Pakistan does not have any recognized zero waste cities. However, there is potential for initiating such efforts in various regions of the country. It may not be feasible to begin with mega cities or major urban centers due to the scale of the challenge. Instead, a practical approach would be to select specific locations as pilot projects. One potential starting point for a zero waste initiative is the port city of Gwadar. This strategic location provides an opportunity to incorporate sustainable waste management practices from the beginning, ensuring that the city grows as a model for zero waste. Similarly, in the northern regions of Pakistan, areas like Hunza Valley, Skardu, Gilgit, and others can be chosen as pilot projects due to their unique natural environments and relatively smaller populations. Another promising option for implementing zero waste practices is within military cantonments. These areas are already under efficient administration and have the potential to become exemplars of environmental protection. The commitment of the military to safeguarding the environment can serve as a catalyst for such efforts. Furthermore, gated communities such as Bahria Town and Defense Housing Authority (DHA) can be encouraged to participate in the zero waste target. Additionally, the cantonment area and Chaklala Garrison in Rawalpindi play a significant role in zero waste management by setting high standards, implementing recycling programs, and collaborating with local authorities for sustainable practices. Their efforts may inspire others and contribute to a cleaner environment. By implementing waste reduction, recycling, and resource recovery measures, these communities can contribute to the larger goal of sustainable waste management. It is important to acknowledge that tackling waste management in cities with millions of inhabitants cannot be achieved overnight. Therefore, a realistic approach would be to focus on specific areas or sectors within these cities, as mentioned earlier. By starting with pilot projects and gradually expanding the scope, it becomes possible to establish sustainable waste management practices throughout the country. Taking a phased and realistic approach, Pakistan can gradually work towards achieving zero waste goals and promoting sustainable waste management practices nationwide. Zero waste cities have emerged as a global movement towards more sustainable and resource-efficient urban environments. These cities prioritize waste prevention, recycling, and resource recovery, aiming to minimize waste generation and promote circular economies. While Pakistan currently faces significant challenges in waste management and environmental sustainability, there are valuable lessons to be learned from international best practices in zero waste cities. By embracing the principles of zero waste cities and adapting international best practices to local circumstances, Pakistan can make significant strides towards effective waste management, resource conservation, and a more sustainable future. The journey towards zero waste will require concerted efforts, collaboration, and a long-term commitment from all the stakeholders involved.

The author is working as a Lecturer in International Relations Department at National Defence University, Pakistan. His area of interest is international politics of environment and climate change and national security of Pakistan. He is also pursuing PhD on the same topic as a subfield of IR. 
E-mail: [email protected]

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5.      Ibid.
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