What is the focus of ZW in terms of the supply chain?

The focus of Zero Waste (ZW) in terms of the supply chain is primarily on upstream responsibility. This approach emphasizes the importance of addressing waste generation before it occurs in the product lifecycle. Upstream responsibility involves considering how materials are sourced, produced, and designed in a way that minimizes waste right from the beginning.

In the context of sustainable practices, upstream strategies prioritize resource efficiency, material reuse, and waste prevention during the early stages of product development. By focusing on upstream responsibilities, businesses can innovate in ways that lead to reduced emissions, lower material usage, and decreased landfill contributions, fostering a more circular economy.

The other options relate to aspects of waste management but do not capture the proactive approach inherent in Zero Waste philosophies. Downstream waste management pertains to handling waste after it has been generated, which is reactive rather than preventive. While manufacturing processes and packaging solutions are important components of the overall supply chain, they do not specifically address the foundational responsibility that Zero Waste advocates for at the upstream level.