TRUE certification for zero waste
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TRUE certified spaces are environmentally responsible, more resource efficient and help turn waste into savings and additional income streams. By closing the loop, they cut greenhouse gases, manage risk, reduce litter and pollution, reinvest resources locally, create jobs and add more value for their company and community. TRUE also certifies events to improve their sustainability. Explore the TRUE project directory and view TRUE pricing.
Eligibility
Certification is available for any physical facility and their operations, including buildings owned by: businesses, property managers, schools, government agencies and nonprofits. For event eligibility, see the Guide to Event Certification below. For construction eligibility, please reference our TRUE for Construction Projects Pilot page.
How TRUE works
A TRUE project's goal is to divert all solid waste from the landfill, incineration (waste-to-energy) and the environment. Facilities achieve certification by meeting seven minimum program requirements and attaining at least 31 points on the TRUE Application form available on the Resources page. View TRUE Pricing.
Certification requirements
Getting started
To register your facility or event for certification, complete the online TRUE registration form. Visit our FAQ page for answers to common questions. For additional questions, contact us at [email protected] to connect with a TRUE team member.
Guide to Certification
The TRUE certification program is an Assessor-based program that rates how well facilities perform in minimizing their non-hazardous, solid wastes and maximizing their efficiency in the use of resources. View the Guide to Certification and TRUE Rating System on the Resources page to learn more.
Precertification
TRUE precertification is an optional, incremental pathway to TRUE certification that prioritizes the core actions essential to getting a successful start toward zero waste. Learn more about the precertification process by reviewing the TRUE Precertification Guidance which outlines details about the process.
Recertification
TRUE certified projects may recertify by providing annual performance data demonstrating that the project continues to meet zero waste requirements. Projects may also recertify and pursue additional points to upgrade their previous certification level gaining increased recognition. Review the TRUE Certification Maintenance and Recertification Guidance for more details on the recertification and certification requirements.
TRUE Portfolio Program
The TRUE Portfolio Program offers an alternate, streamlined documentation submittal and verification process that leverages the similarities between multiple buildings to recognize their zero waste accomplishments. For more information, review the TRUE Portfolio Guide which outlines details about eligibility, the documentation submittal and review process, and more.
Guide to Events Certification
In addition to facilities, events are also eligible to receive certification. Eligible events include public or private organized gatherings of people at a predetermined time and place (such as conferences, festivals, entertainment or sporting events, etc.) TRUE for Events certification has been adapted from the original certification program to help events reach their zero waste goals. View the Technical Guide for Events on the Resources page to learn more.
Guide to Construction Pilot Certification
Construction projects are also eligible to receive certification through a recently released pilot guidance which has been adapted from the TRUE Rating System to help construction projects achieve their zero waste goals. Construction projects may achieve precertification or certification, and eligible construction may include any completed new construction or major renovation projects. View the TRUE for Construction Projects Pilot resources page to learn more.