October 11th 10am - 4pm
Burroughs Community School (1601 W 50th St, Minneapolis, MN 55419)
Zero Waste Fest is a day to come together, celebrate solutions, and build momentum for a zero waste future in Minnesota. From reuse and repair to composting and recycling, we'll share bold policies and build community power to address our waste and climate crises. Enjoy thought-provoking panels, delicious food, local art, and hands-on activities that make it easy to take action.
Whether you’re just starting your zero waste journey or already deep in the work, we are excited to connect with you at the fest!
What to Expect:
Inspiring panels with community advocates
Clothing swap and mending stations to refresh your wardrobe sustainably
Community organizations tabling from across Minnesota’s Zero Waste Movement
Hands on action opportunities to plug into the movement
Family friendly fun with food, kid’s activities, and more
Inspiring Panels:
Building a Zero Waste Future in Minnesota
What does zero waste look like in Minnesota today—and where are we headed next? This panel will bring together community leaders, advocates, and policymakers to explore the work happening across the state to reduce waste and build a circular, equitable system. From neighborhood composting pilots to local initiatives and statewide policy campaigns, panelists will share successes, challenges, and what it will take to move Minnesota toward a true zero waste future.
Panelists: Lucy Mullany - Vice President Policy and Communications, Eureka Recycling | more to be announced soon!
Plastic Is a Justice Issue: Fighting Pollution from Production to Disposal
From extraction and production to incineration and pollution, plastic creates harm at every stage of its lifecycle. This panel will explore how plastic drives environmental injustice, threatens public health, and undermines zero waste goals. Panelists will debunk the myths of “all plastic is recyclable,” expose its toxic impacts, and highlight real solutions—from local bans and refill systems to strong policies and corporate accountability. Together, we’ll discuss how Minnesota can align its climate, health, and justice goals by breaking free from plastic.
Panelists: Jo Banner - Co-Founder & Co-Director, Decendents Project | Katie Drews - Co- President & CEO, Eureka Recycling | Mary Kosuth - Postdoctoral Fellow, Institute on the Environment | Frank Hornstein - Former Representative, MN House
From Throwaway to Reuse: Reclaiming Culture, Creating Systems
Why is everything disposable—and how do we change that? This panel explores how reuse and repair are more than just waste solutions; they are acts of cultural resistance, economic empowerment, and environmental care. Hear from innovators building reuse systems, community menders reviving lost skills, and youth leaders challenging overconsumption while reimagining a future rooted in care, creativity, and resilience.
Panelists to be announced soon!
