Quantify waste types to plan actions on disposal and reduction
Quantification of waste involves measuring and determining the amount or volume of waste generated within a specific timeframe or area.
Quantification process
- Measure and record the quantities of different types of waste produced at the facility.
- Use a consistent unit of measure for all waste types to ensure proper mapping, comparison and analysis.
- Establish a reliable baseline for setting waste quantity reduction targets.
- Consistently quantify waste to track progress on waste minimisation and recycling goals.
- Assess environmental impact based on waste quantification data
Quantification methods
- Evaluate each type of waste to determine the most appropriate quantification method.
- Choose from the following quantification methods based on the waste type and quantity:
- Weighing
- Volume estimation
- Sampling and extrapolation
- Maintain consistency in the chosen quantification method and unit over time.
- Ensure the results are comparable for effective auditing and monitoring of waste minimisation efforts.
Involves physically weighing the waste using scales or weighing systems. It could be done at individual or collective levels, such as weighing dyes, print pastes or containers, boiler fuel waste, e-waste or using trucks with scales to measure larger amounts.
For bulkier waste or unused/obsolete chemical liquid waste, volume estimation involves calculating the space occupied by the waste.
Sampling involves taking a portion of waste and extrapolating the results to estimate the total waste generated. This is common for large scale waste where it is not feasible to measure everything.