The History of Zero Waste Policy The term "zero waste" was first used by Palmer (2004) while receiving resources from chemicals. Canberra, Australia Places that have adopted zero waste policies. The idea for having a zero waste community originated in Canberra, Australia. ACT (Australian Capital Territory) No Waste by 2010 bill in 1995. The passing of this bill marked the first time ever a city created a zero waste goal. In there first year of launching the ACT No Waste Campaign, Canberra was able to divert 42% of waste from the landfill. During the year between the beginning of the campaign and the end of the goal year of 2010 there was leveling off and only slight increases. With the being said by 2009 the city was diverting 73% of its waste away from landfills. The most recent changes that have been made in an effort for Canberra to become zero waste, they have made an adjustment to the 2010 goal, with a new goal of 90% diversion by 2025. This is ...