Waste reduction strategies

Waste reduction, often known as waste minimisation, refers to the process and activities that reduce the amount of waste produced by a business, industry, or society.

Reduce

Reduce is the most effective waste management method. The idea is to make less waste in the first place, thereby minimising the need to treat or dispose of waste.
This can involve implementing policies and procedures that actively discourage the creation of waste within manufacturing or other processes.
One key strategy is to use materials efficiently, minimising offcuts and leftover materials.

Reuse

Reuse involves using an item more than once. This could mean reusing the same item for the same purpose, or finding a new purpose for the item.
By reusing materials and products, we reduce both waste and the demand for new products.
A common example in manufacturing is the reuse of waste material from one process as input in another process.

Recycle

Recycling involves the transformation of waste into raw materials that can be used in the production of new products.
By recycling, we can save resources and energy and reduce the amount of waste going to landfill.
Effective recycling depends on both manufacturers (to design items which can be easily recycled) and consumers (to separate waste for recycling).

Recovery

Recovery includes any waste management operation that diverts a waste material from the waste stream and which results in a certain product with a potential economic or ecological benefit.
Energy recovery from waste is the conversion of non-recyclable waste materials into usable electricity, heat, or fuel through a variety of methods.
It’s important to note that recovery is only applicable when the waste cannot be prevented, reused or recycled.

Disposal of waste

Safe and appropriate disposal of waste is a vital part of waste management. While the focus should always be on reduction, reuse and recycling, some waste will inevitably need to be disposed of.
Effective disposal methods, regulated by legislation, help to minimise environmental damage. These may include landfill, incineration, or composting.
Landfill is the dumping of waste into a designated area, while incineration involves burning waste at high temperatures to reduce volume and generate energy. Composting is a natural process that turns organic material into a nutrient-rich soil conditioner.

Ending waste

The circular economy is a model of production and consumption, which involves sharing, leasing, reusing, repairing, refurbishing and recycling existing materials and products as long as possible.
In this model, the value of products and materials is maintained for as long as possible, and waste and resource use are minimised.
This approach can help to close energy loops and reduce waste, contributing to a more sustainable society.