Ciclomanias' programs also support SDG 12, Responsible Consumption and Production, by promoting waste diversion and fostering a circular economy. Through our Zero Waste Ambassador Programs, offered to both Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities, we integrate science, art, and Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) to advocate for a zero-waste lifestyle. This approach aligns with the Indigenous principle that waste does not exist in nature; everything is used, repurposed, or returned to the Earth in a sustainable way. Many Indigenous languages, in fact, do not even have a word for "waste," reflecting the deeply held understanding that nothing should be discarded.
Our programs provide communities with practical skills for waste reduction, starting with waste audits and strategic plans to divert waste from landfills. Participants are trained in vermicomposting and composting techniques for organic materials, fostering more sustainable ways of dealing with waste. We also use arts-based methods, including upcycling and storytelling, to engage diverse audiences—ranging from K-12 students to adults and seniors—in these practices.
Beyond waste management, we promote food sovereignty and food security by teaching gardening techniques rooted in permaculture principles and the Honorable Harvest—a concept that encourages taking only what is needed from the Earth and using every part of what is harvested. By integrating these practices, we not only support sustainable food production but also help preserve native plant species. Our programs help communities reconnect with these vital principles of responsible consumption, ensuring that future generations inherit a healthier, more sustainable world.
