Hazardous wastes often receive more attention because they are more heavily regulated and cost more per unit volume to manage. However, since businesses generate much larger volumes of industrial solid waste, significant cost savings and waste reduction opportunities are often overlooked. Industrial solid wastes are non-hazardous wastes generated through routine operations of the business, and can be classified into process waste and packaging waste.
Packaging waste is waste generated from spent packaging materials like cardboard, pallets, etc.
In most cases, large volumes of solid waste can be reduced at the source, re-used or recycled. Very significant incentives for waste reduction exist that often go unrecognized. Set terms with suppliers to take back the packaging material and re-use it. Work with them to re-design packaging to minimize waste. Purchase materials in appropriate types of packaging for your use, i.e., pint containers, drums or Gaylord bulk containers.