Hazardous Waste Reduction - Measurement of Progress

Measuring progress on a national basis for the reduction in hazardous waste generated has been carefully examined. A successful measurement must follow the decision-making basis by which industry adopt such changes in order to adequately reflect the pace of waste reduction. Mass-based approaches are useful in some evaluations of priorities, but are inadequate and produce major anomalies in reporting. Thus a measurement approach was developed to focus on the potential for cost-effective waste reduction and then the rate of accomplishment of that potential by industry. The economic-based concept was found to correct the substantial anomalies inherent in a mass-based approach. The new methodology is suitable for use by individual industry and can maintain a certain level of proprietary control.