The Rewards of Finding the Right Zero Waste-to-Landfill Partner

A popular end-goal of making this shift is achieving Zero Waste-to-Landfill status where:

• All waste a company produces is diverted from landfill disposal
• That waste’s inherent resources are used to their fullest utility by way of waste reduction, reuse, recycling and recovery efforts

While pursuing zero waste-to-landfill is a noble goal in the journey of mitigating the negative environmental impacts of waste, it’s also a prudent one from an economic, and even social standpoint. However, the full scope of its benefits is difficult to capitalize on without the right help. It’s why having a sustainable waste management partner that complements your business and its goals is invaluable.

Realizing the Benefits

Whether it has to do with the dire state of the planet, the risks to global economies or the threats to brand image and valuation, you likely already know what’s at stake for irresponsible waste management—and that makes “getting it right” all the more important. An effective sustainable waste management partner can ensure your zero waste-to-landfill efforts are top-notch by driving environmental initiatives without sacrificing any important elements or needs of your business. In fact, they’ll identify key challenges early on, help set appropriate sustainability goals and deliver significant, measurable outcomes.

Common Disposal Challenges

Traditional disposal methods, such as landfilling, can initially seem easier and more economical. In fact, at first glance, landfilling may appear to be one of the most inexpensive disposal methods per ton. However, a closer look reveals a number of hidden, short- and long-term liabilities and costs compared to modern alternatives. Still, even upon discovering this, some businesses fall behind in transitioning to sustainable solutions that will move them toward realizing zero waste-to-landfill status. Why? In practice, sustainable waste management is not a core business competency for most companies and the challenges they face as a result are more common than not, including:

• Finding Safe, Secure and Reliable Waste Management Solutions
• Meeting Sustainability Goals
• Staying Compliant
• Protecting the Brand
• Controlling Waste-Handling Costs
  
  

Finding the Right Solutions Partner

Fortunately, overcoming such challenges are just another day’s work for capable sustainable waste management partners. So, what does “capable” look like? Typically, a capable solutions partner that can help your business achieve zero waste-to-landfill will bring four crucial proficiencies to the table:

• Leadership in Strategic Sustainability
  This will provide a clear path to achieving zero waste-to-landfill by identifying key areas to reduce your waste’s negative environmental impacts, implementing sustainable waste and materials management technologies and setting measurable goals along your journey.
  
  
• Broad-Based Disposal Solutions
  A partner that can offer a wide array of disposal solutions—including secure destruction of sensitive and confidential materials, consumer packaged goods recycling, and wastewater reuse and treatment—will help achieve those goals comprehensively.
  
  
• Vertical Expertise
  Every industry has specific needs when it comes to sustainable waste management. For example, healthcare facilities will need a partner with knowledge of managing DEA controlled waste, prescription take back/mail back programs and other regulated materials. A partner with expertise in managing your primary waste stream is a must-have.
  
  
• Good Industry Relationships
  Your partner should also be on good terms with local and state waste management agencies where your business is located. This will provide greater flexibility and seamlessness in executing your goals every step of the way.
  
  

Additionally, a reputable waste and materials management partner will be able to track a spectrum of key performance indicators and deliver results that save money, provide timely waste stream insights, simplify reporting and information sharing, conserve resources, and protect your brand.

Research and trends continue to show that responsible waste management is good for business and pursuing zero waste-to-landfill is one of the best ways of going about it. However, making the case for more sustainable waste management is far easier than executing it. Partnering with a capable provider is the best route for businesses that wish to capitalize on the rewards associated with zero waste-to-landfill, but don’t have the in-house means to fully realize them.

For more details on how partnering with the right sustainable waste solutions provider can make a world of difference for the environment, your brand image and your top- and bottom-lines, be sure to read our eBook.