A waste audit is an analysis of an organisation’s waste stream, looking at the types and quantities produced. It’s a great way to assess a business’s waste management practices and make its operations more sustainable while reducing its environmental impact. It can also generate cost savings.
The process
The auditors start the process by collecting all the waste generated during a set period, sorting it into the predetermined categories (e.g. recyclables, non-recyclables, organic waste) and weighing each group. This helps to quantify and identify major waste streams.
The data is then analysed to pinpoint patterns and find areas for improvement. Based on the analysis, the waste reduction opportunities are compiled into an action plan. This could include setting up better recycling systems and/or changing purchasing habits.
Monitoring should continue once the changes have been implemented, and follow-up audits conducted regularly to assess progress and make further improvements.
The benefits
Identifying unnecessary waste and inefficiencies can lead to significant cost savings, as it allows businesses to optimise their processes and resource management, make better purchasing decisions, lower disposal costs and possibly generate revenue from recyclable materials.
A waste audit provides the data needed to set realistic sustainability goals and measure progress towards achieving them. This will ultimately lead to improved environmental performance, as reducing waste contributes to less landfill use and a lower carbon footprint.
Sustainability initiatives can really boost a company’s image, making it more appealing to customers and investors, as well as positioning it as a more attractive employer.
In the UK, businesses must comply with environmental regulations relating to waste. A waste audit helps ensure that businesses are following these laws, avoiding potential fines and legal issues. It can also help ensure EMS certification standards are met.
The Hamptons Group actively contributes to our customers’ environmental goals – we only send around 2% of waste to landfill and we’re working hard on reducing this number to zero.
Need some help? Book a free waste audit to get started today.