Page 461 - Solid Waste Analysis and Minimization a Systems Approach

CASE STUDY 439

and component bindings for in-house transportation. Many organizations that cur-
rently utilize wood pallets have been very successful in implementing use of return-
able plastic pallets. In terms of in-house bindings, many companies use rubber
bands to secure subcomponents for transfer. Upon inspection and evaluation, many
of these companies dispose of this as general waste. A simple process of collecting
and reusing rubber bands saved one organization $3500 per year. Part washers may
be required to clean various caps and plugs that could be reused.
■ Recycle—If waste elimination or reduction options are not available, recycling of
scrap, paper, plastic, and metal waste should be implemented, in most cases work-
ing with an outsourced supplier.
■ Energy recovery—Finally, if recycling options are not available, energy recovery
may be utilized to convert the waste into electricity at specialized sites. Internet
searches will generate several organizations in local areas.

34.6 Implementation and Approach

To implement the proposed approaches listed earlier, several approaches are recom-
mended. In unionized environments, buy-in and support from the local union is criti-
cal. This will ensure that employees support and understand the program. This will
significantly increase the success rate of the program. An employee suggestion box
and rewards program can also generate great ideas. Many companies have taken an
approach where the originator of a process change is entitled to a percentage of the
costs savings usually in the magnitude of 1 to 5 percent over the first year.
Second, many manufacturing organizations, specifically the automotive industry,
have been successful in tracking waste generation by work unit or production unit.
This may create healthy competition between employees and build teamwork. In addi-
tion, awards can be given to top performing units on a quarterly or annual basis.
Supply-chain modifications and “the greening” of suppliers may also generate excel-
lent waste minimization results. This may be necessary when considering returnable
containers and the reuse of certain items. In line with this, is the concept of zero land-
fill facilities. A zero landfill facility applies the aggressive philosophy of implementing
waste minimization working toward the goal of zero landfill. This is accomplished
through numerous organization-wide methods, including the focused use of compost-
ing and energy recovery.

34.7 Case Study

In 2002 The University of Toledo waste minimization team conducted a solid waste
audit for an automobile-stamping plant in Northwest Ohio. The objectives of this project
were to gain an overall understanding of the plant, identify all major solid waste streams,
and then to suggest some areas for reducing, reusing, and recycling materials in the
waste stream. At the time of the audit the facility had a small recycling program. The
plant collected several materials including mixed office paper, cardboard, aluminum