Waste Reduction Techniques: An Overview

increasingly, companies are focusing on waste reduction in the entire manufacturing process rather than just on end-of-the-pipe waste. The techniques used in waste reduction can be broken own into four major categories-managing inventory, modifying production processes, educing waste volume, and recovering waste. Within each category, examples are given of process or materials changes or modifications hat can be implemented to minimize waste. Liquid, solid, and/or gaseous waste materials are always generated during the manufacture of any product. In addition to creating environmental problems, these wastes represent losses of valuable materials and energy from the production process and require a significant investment in pollution control. Traditionally, pollution control relies on " end-of-the-pipe " and " out-the-back-door " treatments, which require manpower, energy, materials, and capital expenditures. Such an approach removes pollutants from one source-through wastewater treatment or air pollution abatement-but places them somewhere else, such as in a landfill. More regulations, higher disposal expenses, and increased liability costs have caused industrial and governmental leaders to begin critical examination of end-of-the-pipe control measures. The value of reducing waste during the manufacturing process and, thus, eliminating some pollutants as an end product has become apparent to a number of industries. These companies are looking at broader environmental management objectives rather than concentrating solely on pollution control As will be documented throughout this article, waste reduction is not only very often economically beneficial for an industry, it also improves the quality of the environment. Waste reduction techniques should be key components of any cost-effective, comprehensive waste management program. They do not have to be based on complex technology or require large capital expenditures. In fact, waste reduction techniques can be applied to any manufacturing process, from one as simple as making a paper clip to one as complex as assembling the space shuttle. Available techniques range from easy operational changes to state-of-the-art recovery equipment. The common factor in these techniques is that they reduce bottom-line operational costs. Waste reduction techniques can be broken down into four major categories: managing inventory, modifying production processes, reducing waste volume, and recovering waste. Because the classifications are broad, there will be some overlap. In actual application, waste reduction techniques generally are used in combination in order to achieve the maximum effect at the lowest cost.