Page 182 - Solid Waste Analysis and Minimization a Systems Approach

160 THE GENERAL APPROACH FOR A SOLID WASTE ASSESSMENT

2 Calculate the annualized waste reduction impact in terms of tons per year and
whether the waste reduction is source reduction, reuse, or recycling
3 Compile and analyze the process flowcharts that create the waste stream
4 Conduct feasibility analyses (technical, operational, and organizational)
5 Conduct a cost justification for each alternative (payback, internal rate of return,
and net present value)
6 Gather feedback from all stakeholders
7 Approval and sign off from the waste minimization team and executives

Technical and operational feasibility is concerned with whether the proper resources
exist or are reasonably attainable to implement a specific alternative. This includes the
square footage of the building, existing and available utilities, existing processing and
material-handling equipment, quality requirements, and skill level of employees.
During this process, product specifications and facility constraints should be taken into
account. Typical technical evaluation criteria include

■ Available space in the facility
■ Safety
■ Compatibility with current work processes and material handling
■ Impact on product quality
■ Required technologies and utilities (power, compressed air, and data links)
■ Knowledge and skills required for operating and maintaining the alternative
■ Additional labor requirements
■ Impact on product marketing
■ Implementation time

When evaluating technical feasibility, facility engineers or consultants should be
contacted for input. In addition it is also wise to discuss the technical aspects with
workers directly impacted by the change, such as production and maintenance. If an
alternative calls for a change in raw materials, the effect on the quality of the final
product must be evaluated. If an alternative does not meet the technical requirements
of the organization, it should be removed from consideration. From a technical stand-
point, the three areas that require additional evaluation are

1 Equipment modifications or purchases
2 Process changes
3 Material changes

If an alternative involves an equipment modification or purchase, an analysis on the
equipment should be conducted. The team should investigate whether the equipment
is available commercially and then contact the manufacturer for more information.
Performance of the machine should also be addressed, including cost, utility require-
ments, capacity, throughput, cycle time, required preventative maintenance, space
requirements, and possible locations in the facility in which the equipment could be
installed. In addition, whether production would be affected during installation, should
also be evaluated. The vendor or manufacturer could provide more information