aerial view of a busy pedestrian crossing

Who we are

Zero Waste Scotland is a not-for-profit environmental organisation funded by the Scottish Government.  

Photo of Finnieston Crane, the Hydro and the SEC Armadillo - the backdrop to COP26 in Glasgow Photo of Finnieston Crane, the Hydro and the SEC Armadillo - the backdrop to COP26 in Glasgow

What we do

We exist to lead Scotland to use products and resources more responsibly, focusing on where we can have the greatest effect on reducing climate change together through responsible consumption, responsible production and maximising value through waste. 

Using evidence and insight, our goal is to inform policy and motivate individuals and businesses to embrace the environmental, economic, and social benefits of a circular economy.  

Our aims

Where we encourage people and businesses to reflect on how much demand we put on products and services and consider ways that respect the limits of our natural resources.   

Where a circular economy is embraced at the earliest possible stage – by businesses and organisations which supply products and services. This way we ensure we get the maximum life and value from the natural resources being used to make things.  

Where we use what is often referred to as waste as an opportunity to further harness its energy and minimise its environmental and economic impact  

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'. 

Photo of a group of people holding climate change placards
Iain Gulland, CEO, Zero Waste Scotland & Nicola Sturgeon, First Minister

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.