Zero Waste Lab

Zero Waste Lab (ZeWaLab – Associação Lixo Zero) is an independent hub and laboratory based in Lisbon, Portugal, dedicated to piloting collaborative solutions towards a zero waste, regenerative society. The organisation brings together activists, civil society organisations, researchers, and communities to actively debate, research, and test new approaches to waste reduction and materials life cycle intervention. Operating as an NGO, Zero Waste Lab engages in a wide range of activities including talks and debates, awareness and education campaigns, hands-on workshops, community and pilot projects, consultancy, and professional training. One of its flagship initiatives is the WasteLess Manifesto, a movement created to amplify the voice of youth and inspire collective action around zero waste principles. At the European level, Zero Waste Lab participates in cross-border projects such as the REPLAY pilot project — co-promoted with Precious Plastic — and the Zero Waste Urban Parks initiative, which partners with organisations across Belgium, Spain, and Portugal to make public parks litter-free. The organisation is also embedded in Portugal's broader circular economy ecosystem, collaborating with Circular Economy Portugal and other stakeholders in working groups focused on reuse and repair. Recognised by the European Climate Pact, Zero Waste Lab promotes the understanding that waste prevention begins before recycling, advocating for systemic change in how materials are produced, consumed, and managed. With a small but dedicated team of 2–10 people operating from the LX Office in Lisbon, the organisation continues to grow its network and influence across Portugal and Europe.