Picture this: you're packing a reusable water bottle before heading out the door. Maybe you skip a plastic straw at lunch, bring your own shopping bag to the store, or choose a reusable container instead of a disposable one.

Individually, those actions might seem small.

Collectively? They can make a huge difference for wildlife, wild places, and the planet we all share.

That's the idea behind the W.I.L.D. Zero-Waste Challenge (ZWC), a free, month-long sustainability challenge taking place throughout July. W.I.L.D. stands for Walk Intentionally. Live Differently. And this year, joining the movement is easier than ever.

What Is the W.I.L.D. Zero-Waste Challenge?

The W.I.L.D. Zero-Waste Challenge invites participants to build simple, sustainable habits through fun, bite-sized actions completed in everyday life. Using the free JouleBug mobile app, participants can log actions, earn points, track their impact, and connect with others who are working toward a healthier future.

Whether you're already passionate about sustainability or just looking for an easy place to start, the challenge is designed to meet you where you are.

In 2025 alone, participants logged more than 73,000 actions through the challenge, helping prevent more than 127,000 pounds of carbon dioxide from entering the atmosphere while saving thousands of gallons of water. Every reusable bottle, litter cleanup, and waste-free choice added up to meaningful impact.

W.I.L.D. Zero-Waste Challenge Info

Join the Columbus Zoo ZWC Team

One of the easiest ways to participate is by joining the Columbus Zoo team in the JouleBug app.
Throughout July, you'll earn points every time you complete and log a challenge. You can track your progress, see how your actions contribute to larger conservation goals, and cheer on fellow participants as everyone works toward a common goal.

Getting started is simple:

• Download the free JouleBug app.
• Create an account.
• Join the W.I.L.D. Zero-Waste Challenge.
• Find and join the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium team.
• Start logging your actions and earning points.

Need Ideas? We've Got You Covered.

The challenge includes more than 100 actions that can fit into nearly any lifestyle, schedule, or budget. Some take just a few seconds, while others can help build long-term habits that reduce waste and conserve resources.

Not sure where to begin?

Throughout July, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium will share some of our favorite challenges on social media each week. Follow along for inspiration, tips, and easy ways to earn points while making a positive impact—@columbuszoo on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

You may discover a new habit that sticks long after July ends.

Calling All Zoos, Aquariums, and Organizations

The W.I.L.D. Zero-Waste Challenge isn't limited to individuals or zoo lovers.

Zoos, aquariums, schools, businesses, conservation organizations, and community groups are encouraged to create their own teams and invite employees, volunteers, members, guests, and supporters to participate together! The challenge has grown into a collaborative effort involving organizations across North America, all working toward a shared goal of reducing waste and encouraging sustainable living.

A little friendly competition doesn't hurt, either.

Why It Matters for Wildlife

Plastic pollution and waste impact habitats around the world. Wildlife can mistake plastic for food, become entangled in debris, or experience the effects of pollution in rivers, lakes, oceans, and natural ecosystems. Making intentional choices about what we use, reuse, and throw away helps reduce those impacts and supports healthier environments for animals and people alike.

The good news? You don't need special equipment, a big budget, or a complete lifestyle overhaul to help.

You just need a willingness to take one small step. Then another. And another.

Ready to Go W.I.L.D.?

The challenge is free, flexible, and open to anyone looking to make a difference.

Join the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium team, invite friends and family to participate, or create a team of your own. Together, small actions can create a ripple effect that reaches far beyond the month of July.

Learn more, download the app, and join the challenge!

W.I.L.D. Zero-Waste Challenge Info