Abstract

Waste is produced whenever more power, water or materials are used than is absolutely necessary. In this presentation, Dr Claire Barlow will take a broad definition of waste in manufacturing industry to include anything that does not directly contribute to making the desired product.

Not only does waste fail to add any value – it actually costs money in terms of the materials, energy and water used to produce it, and the landfill charges to dispose of it. It follows that any steps taken to reduce waste should be financially beneficial for an enterprise. Many waste reduction measures are no more than common sense and may involve little or no expenditure. This presentation will look at examples from large and small companies engaged in a range of operations: What are the barriers to starting, and then rolling out, a waste reduction programme? Lack of time or expertise? Scepticism within the company?

More far-reaching measures may require substantial capital outlay; decisions about their merits may involve calculating pay-back periods, or may depend other influences such as establishing ‘green credentials’. Examples of these will be discussed.

Refreshments at 17.30. Presentation at 18.00.