Page 176 - Solid Waste Analysis and Minimization a Systems Approach

154 THE GENERAL APPROACH FOR A SOLID WASTE ASSESSMENT

Potential Waste Minimization Options

Contact Information Sources or Additional
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(phone/e-mail) Information
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Figure 8.22 Alternative generation worksheet.

8.8.2 IDENTIFYING MARKETS FOR RECYCLABLE MATERIALS

As part of this process, identifying markets for recyclable materials is a very impor-
tant step in implementing a waste minimization alternative. Each state and local area
has recycling brokers for most wastes. These companies can be located through phone
calls or Internet directories or the state environmental agency. In California, for exam-
ple, a booklet called The California Waste Exchange can be obtained from the State
Department of Toxic Substance Control.
Once the information has been collected, it will need to be analyzed and summa-
rized into a useable format for evaluation. The remainder of this chapter will provide
the process to perform this analysis and provide several examples.

8.8.3 COMMON WASTE MINIMIZATION ALTERNATIVES
(MATERIALS AND METHODS)
This section provides a brief list of common solid waste minimization alternatives that
many companies have successfully implemented. When considering alternatives to
minimize waste, the solid waste minimization hierarchy should be considered.
Consideration should first be given to reducing the waste (find a process or purchas-
ing change to prevent generating the waste in the first place); next, reuse the waste
item; and next recycle the waste item; then finally, dispose at the landfill. Source reduc-
tion can be accomplished through process modifications, technology changes, input