SCS Zero Waste Certification logo

    SCS Zero Waste Certification

    SCS Global Services logo

    SCS Global Services

    Recognises waste diversion achievements at facilities, projects and events and encourages continual progress toward landfill-free operations.

    The SCS Zero Waste Certification costs $2,500 USD, takes approximately 8 weeks, and requires around 40 hours of study. Over 500 events have earned this certification worldwide. Renewal costs $1,500 USD every 12 months.

    For Events
    For Buildings
    For Projects
    Waste diversion
    Circular economy
    Hazardous waste management
    Waste-to-energy inclusion
    ESG reporting

    Key Strengths

    • Tiered entry points allow participation from 50% diversion, making it accessible to facilities still on their zero-waste journey
    • Risk-based auditing model reduces on-site audit burden and associated costs
    • Covers facilities, projects, and events under a single standard (SCS-110)
    • Allows waste-to-energy and hazardous waste diversion to count toward certification goals
    • Issued by SCS Global Services, a globally recognized and accredited third-party certifier
    • Supports incremental improvement with a clear pathway to the 99% 'Zero Waste' claim

    Ideal For

    This certification is best suited for facility managers, sustainability directors, and operations teams at manufacturing plants, corporate campuses, stadiums, hotels, and event venues that are actively tracking and reducing landfill-bound waste. It is particularly valuable for organizations seeking third-party credibility for ESG reporting or sustainability marketing claims, and for event organizers wanting to demonstrate measurable environmental responsibility. Companies already achieving 50%+ diversion rates who want to formalize and communicate their progress will find the tiered structure especially accessible.

    Target Audiences

    Businesses
    Construction
    Real Estate Professionals
    Governments
    Non-profits

    Relevant Roles

    Facility Manager
    Auditor
    Consultant
    Engineer

    Industries

    Manufacturing
    Real Estate
    Construction
    Government

    Alignment & Recognition

    Accrediting Body

    ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB) — SCS Global Services is an ISO 17065 accredited certification body

    Recognized By

    • Verified by SCS Global Services, a globally respected third-party sustainability certifier

    Standards & Frameworks

    SCS Certification Standard for Zero Waste (SCS‑110)

    Scope

    Performance

    Specializations

    Facilities (≥50 % diversion)
    Projects (≥75 % diversion)
    Events (≥75 % diversion)

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Quick Facts

    Type

    Certification

    Regions
    Global
    Languages

    English

    Established

    2021

    Certified Events

    500

    Digital Badge

    Available

    Cost Breakdown

    Registration / Initial$2,500
    Renewal (every 12 mo)$1,500
    First-year total$4,000

    How to Display This Recognition

    Accessible

    Sources & Citations

    Content on this page is AI-enriched from primary sources.

    Program WebsiteSCS Global Services

    Last verified Mar 5, 2026