Smith, Heather; Chellamuthu, Dr. Vinodh (Dixie State University)
Faculty Advisor: Chellamuthu, Vinodh (Dixie State University, Mathematics)
The Zero Waste movement aims to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills, incinerators, and recycling through education on more sustainable choices. Individuals are educated on how to avoid single-use items, reduce, reuse, and compost as much as possible, and recycle when necessary. Making more sustainable choices on an individual or family level can be a significant part of the solution to plastic pollution and climate change. We developed an individual-based model that shows the relationship between idea dissemination, individual choices, and waste collection. The model is based on statistical data concerning waste, pollution, and idea dissemination to better understand how education about Zero Waste can efficiently reduce landfill contributions and help the local economy. Our results from this model can help policymakers make decisions about waste management, and influencers educate people on the Zero Waste movement.