The Solid Waste Analysis and Minimization Research Project: A Joint Effort between Government, College, and Industry

摘要

In 1996, an innovative partnership between the Lucas County Solid Waste Management District and The University of Toledo, College of Engineering was formed to help improve environmental and economic conditions in Lucas County, Ohio. The partnership created the Waste Analysis and Minimization Research Project and later, in 2003 the Business Waste Reduction Assistance Program. The primary purpose of the Project is to provide no cost solid waste assessments to Lucas County manufacturers and businesses. Since the inception of the project, over 70 waste assessments have been completed, over 109 million tons of solid waste has been identified for reuse, reduction, or recycling and over $3.1 million have been identified as potential cost savings for Lucas County business. The Project demonstrates that through a cooperative effort and a creative alliance, businesses, governments, universities, and industries can work together to improve environmental quality, reduce waste, and improve profitability. The Project also educates college students though practical, real-world environmental work experience and trains them to become future environmental leaders.