subject: Take A Clear Look At Waste Planning [print this page] As far as sustainability is concerned, carbon emissions management is the focal point of attention. As such, many organizations do not really consider other areas of environmental efficiency as much as they should. For example, waste planning is often overlooked, or is attributed to a generic approach and the subject of initiatives that have being handed down through successive generations. This is a shame, as there are real financial savings to be made through effective waste planning, and the savings can be applied to the bottom line.
A structured waste planning initiative should be in place for every company, over and above the concept of prevention. Engage all suppliers at this stage, as when goods are supplied as part of a production process, excess packaging is often used which is the ultimate responsibility of your organization to dispose of. "Encourage" the suppliers to reduce packaging, while also crunching the numbers yourself to see how much could be saved on an annual basis through concerted action.
Get to know how much money your organization is actually spending through a systematic approach to waste calculations. Go beyond the organization and look at the entire product lifecycle. Remember that once a product has been distributed to the customer your organization may, especially in the light of current developments, be made accountable for associated waste, which may not materialize for months or even years.
It is important to establish targets for any waste planning initiatives agreed. Remember that it is impossible to manage without the ability to measure and a company's waste footprint should be established, just as the organization would calculate its carbon footprint.
With a baseline or footprint in hand, a company can establish exactly what it will cost them to deal with waste. Armed with these targets, you can adequately incentivize those whose responsibility it is to oversee.
Waste planning is a comprehensive part of the company's sustainability goals. Sustainability should be a fundamental and core ingredient of the organization and not an afterthought. Make sure that waste production is minimized at source. While some waste element is unavoidable, consider recycling or reuse before the last resort -- disposal.
From an environmental point of view, a comprehensive approach to saving is important. Water is a very finite resource as well and most organizations do not realize that their energy use may shortly be the subject of potential legislation to cap greenhouse gases. Throughout the organization every asset must be categorized and tracked, so that ultimate efficiency can be viewed.
No longer can environmental efficiency be considered by the public relations department alone. This should be a competitive issue for every organization. Energy management and greenhouse gas containment should be a focal point, but waste planning cannot be overlooked.
