Introduction

This chapter outlines the elements of a basic waste minimization program and the process for conducting a thorough facility waste reduction assessment. Forms and worksheets provided to assist in the assessment process are referred to in the corresponding text. The information included is comprehensive to provide detail for those who want it, and may not suit the needs of all businesses. Use this chapter as a guide only. Pick and choose only the ideas and "tools" applicable to your business needs (page 3-5 suggests an alternate process for very small businesses). Regardless of your approach, this chapter can help you begin and maintain a waste minimization program that will reduce waste management costs and liabilities while improving worker and community environments.

Figure 1 below utlines the topics discussed in this chapter for easy reference.

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Figure 1. Waste Minimization Program Steps

(F=Form; WS=worksheet)

Initiate a Program

• Ensure Both Management & Employee Commitment
• Designate Waste Minimization Personnel
• Set Goals

Organize Your Business with Waste Management in Mind

• Strategies to Reduce Waste Before it Enters the Business

Conduct a Waste Reduction Assessment

1. Preliminary Review............................................... F-A; WS-1
2. Facility Walkthrough............................................. F-A; F-B
3. Identification of Waste Reduction Alternatives........F-C
4. Evaluate & Prioritize Alternatives:
   1. a. Initial Screening........................................F-C
   2. b. Evaluate Remaining Alternatives
      • Wastestream Priority
      • General Potential...............................WS-3
      • Technical & Economic Feasibility.......WS-4;WS-5
   3. c. Final Selection & Prioritization..................F-C

Implement Selected Waste Reduction Options

• Develop and Implement an Action Plan
• Evaluate Results

Adapt Your Program to Changing Needs

• Periodic Review
• Ongoing Commitment