Effectively Managing Recycling Efforts for Optimal Outcomes
Brent Perdue
in Connect on LinkedIn
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has estimated that only 32% of materials that include glass, plastic, cardboard, metals and paper are recycled in the U.S. With so little of potentially recyclable waste being pulled aside for reuse, it is crucial that these items are strategically managed. It is challenging to manage production wastes cost-effectively and in an environmentally sustainable manner. Companies looking to capitalize on a circular economy and zero waste strategies need production-compatible solutions. These companies are looking for solutions to promote sustainable practices in pursuit of net zero goals.
Brent Perdue, a recycling and solid waste project manager, explains what actions companies can take to implement zero waste strategies and promote a circular economy. With over 20 years of experience in the recycling and resource recovery industry, as well as a manager of nonregulated waste, he has extensive insight into the strategies companies can implement to effectively and successfully manage waste.
Q: How can companies optimally manage recycling efforts?
A: Companies can enhance recycling efforts by adopting several strategic approaches that align with production efficiency. It’s crucial for these companies to collaborate across different departments, work closely with production, facility management, workplace teams and other key interested parties to identify waste streams and manage them effectively. This open communication keeps waste management strategies from disrupting a facility’s core production processes.
Waste management professionals should also tailor strategies to fit specific processes within the company. Incorporating waste management into a 5S methodology process (sort, set in order, shine, standardize and sustain) involves educating production workers how to complete efficient waste reduction practices. For example, after unboxing materials, clear guidelines should be in place for labeling and disposing of packaging waste.
Q: How can landfill expenses be reduced by increasing recycling and reducing hauling costs?
A: Investing in compaction equipment can significantly reduce hauling costs by maximizing the value of recyclable materials and minimizing the volume of waste. A thorough, holistic waste stream evaluation should also be completed to help identify opportunities to reduce packaging or redesign it to minimize waste. This approach includes identifying ways to compact materials more efficiently through optimized sorting or handling. From my experience, it’s better to start with simple, cost-effective strategies to reduce waste before considering more expensive equipment.
Q: How does commodity market development generate recycling revenues?
A: Understanding and developing commodity markets can unlock additional revenue streams for companies. Companies should be aware of the value of materials like cardboard, scrap metal or other recyclables. I have seen firsthand how developing markets for these commodities allows a company to capture more value, increasing its recycling revenues.
Recycling companies may not be transparent about market trends. A company should stay informed about commodity prices to check that it is getting the highest possible return on its recyclable materials.
Q: How can return on investment (ROI) be increased concerning equipment expenditures?
A: To maximize ROI on waste management equipment, companies should integrate recycling and waste management planning into overall facility development. Integrating waste management into the facility's initial design helps minimize unplanned costs and sees that waste streams are managed efficiently from the start.
Waste management professionals should also be assessing the potential revenue from managing waste streams and comparing it against the cost of equipment. I have used a piece of compaction equipment that costs $10,000 but pays for itself within six months. The piece then generates ROI through transportation hauling cost reduction savings and opening up a waste material for commodity sale instead of disposal.
Q: How does promoting zero waste and a circular economy positively impact the environment?
A: Adopting zero waste and circular economy principles leads to substantial environmental benefits. Moving away from a cradle-to-grave waste management approach to a circular economy mindset promotes sustainability that is going to push the recycling industry toward a more sustainable and profitable future. This shift means viewing waste as a resource that can be managed and reintegrated into the production life cycle. This approach not only reduces waste but also lessens the environmental impact associated with resource extraction and processing.
Solid waste contracting can be difficult, especially when navigating the supply chain and inflation. Discover how engaging early in thorough solid waste management planning can help mitigate these challenges.
