Waste Minimization & Hierarchy
Dow encourages waste minimization. Waste minimization is broadly defined to include efforts that can reduce waste generation in a manufacturing unit or pollution prevention efforts that prevent the generation of wastes in the research and development stage.
The Waste Minimization Hierarchy is fundamental to any waste minimization methodology. It includes:
- Source reduction
- Use, reuse or recycle at or near the point of waste generation
- Use, reuse or recycle external to the site or company generating the waste
- Waste treatment
- Proper disposal
The desired outcome of implementing waste minimization methodology is to move up in this hierarchy to source reduction — that is, do not make the waste in the first place.
Waste Disposal
All disposal methods must be in compliance with applicable governmental requirements. These requirements may vary in different locations. Waste characterizations and compliance with applicable laws are the responsibility solely of the waste generator.