Page 26 - Solid Waste Analysis and Minimization a Systems Approach

4 DEFINITION OF SOLID WASTE ANALYSIS AND MINIMIZATION

the world. In other words, how will recycling and environmental protection improve the
profitability or operating budgets for organizations? That is the focus of this book, to trans-
late solid waste minimization and recycling into terms that appeal to a CEO and that will
motivate him or her to take actions based on the economic benefits as well as the environ-
mental benefits. A 2007 survey conducted in Toledo, Ohio of companies that had imple-
mented solid waste minimization and recycling strategies indicated an average annual cost
savings of $125,000 per company. These are concepts that motivate CEOs. The central con-
cept is that a company can help the environment and its economics at the same time.
As the world moves toward a global economy and competition gets tougher, there is
a greater need for organizations to enhance corporate images and improve financial per-
formance. Waste minimization is very important for companies and organizations of all
types. Effective waste minimization can increase profits by reducing waste disposal costs,
raw material purchases, and other operating costs. This is primarily accomplished
through use of the three Rs, which is to reduce, reuse, and recycle any material in the
organization’s waste stream.
Many analytical models have been developed to help companies achieve the goal of
waste minimization. One such method is presented in this book. This method has been
applied to over 75 companies and has achieved demonstrated environmental and eco-
nomic results. The model hinges on the business maxim “If you can’t measure it, you
can’t manage it.” The objective of the model is to quantify the solid waste generation
and achieve the following goals:

■ Increased manufacturing competitiveness through reduced solid waste disposal costs,
reduced energy costs, and optimized use of raw materials, packaging, and floor space.
■ Improved corporate image as companies become more green.
■ Reduced pollution through reduced energy usage, and the application of clean and
renewable energy sources.
■ Decreased reliance on landfills for disposal.

The primary goal of this type of research is to empower companies and organizations
to reduce operating costs by limiting the amount of raw material and energy used in the
facility. This includes minimizing waste, transportation, and storage, reducing disposal
fees, generating revenue for the sale of recyclables, and limiting pollution to improve
the quality of the environment. Many organizations are able to increase profit by reduc-
ing waste disposal costs, raw material purchases, and other operating costs. However,
many companies do not have the capability to perform a waste evaluation due to time
constraints and lack of knowledge in the field.
This book provides a detailed framework and reference material for solid waste
analysis and minimization and it is broken into three parts

■ Part 1 provides the definition, benefits, and background information regarding solid
waste analysis and minimization.
■ Part 2 discusses solid waste assessment strategies and provides the general frame-
work to conduct a solid waste audit.
■ Part 3 provides 27 case studies in various businesses, including two international case
studies.