Introduction

Many people do not fully realize that most of our current problems have emerged due to human ignorance, unawareness or lack of desire to make changes. For the greater part of the world population, problems such as hunger, weather disasters and global warming seem alien and distant – but ecological challenges are no longer the exception. Due to the industrial revolution and ongoing human development, people tend to have forgotten about our belonging to the planet and the ecosystem in general. As a result, all living creatures, including human beings, struggle with extensive catastrophes that are environmental problems. Waste has been one extremely damaging result of consumption and human-made developments. As an example, the Danube is the “most multinational” river in the world, and is constantly threatened by new sources of pollution. One of the biggest sources of pollution is microplastics, which also threaten fish and fish larvae. It is estimated that about 40 tons of microplastics are transported annually through the river. We all play a role in this, and constantly need to rethink ways we can create a cleaner world around us. Reducing plastic use is the biggest thing everyone can do to prevent further waste and pollution. Plastic is so present in our

modern-day lives that it is often inescapable for consumers. But if we all changed our behaviour even a little bit, imagine how much of a difference it would make!

After all, it’s not only about plastic – it is most of all about the air, soil and water ... So many things around us are polluted because of the way we live. It is beyond doubt that we need to relearn our connectedness to nature in order to protect our planet. This booklet will provide inspiration and guidance on sustainable living. It will mainly focus on Zero Waste practices, and the general background behind waste reduction. We are convinced that living according to Zero Waste principles is the key to sustainable development. This toolkit has been carefully created by 45 young changemakers from the Danube region who have realized that it is time to take action. The following chapters were written in the framework of the project “Go Zero, Danube!”, a European youth project that contributes to a clean and healthy Danube region, involving the affected countries. In four international youth exchanges, the youth dive into topics of waste prevention, upcycling and Zero Waste, and learn about practical solutions to protect the planet.

We hope that you will enjoy it!

The Go Zero Danube Team