In the past and up till now, ways to recycle a certain product are pondered over when the product cannot be used any more. If this situation is looked at from a different angle, more effective results can be achieved. A program has been launched which is actually aimed at promoting the fact that recycling methodologies should be given a consideration while a product is being designed, and not when its lifetime is over.
The program is making efforts to increase the awareness of the strategy proposed above. In fact, it even rewards and recognizes those companies that practice innovative design techniques on a yearly basis. This award has already been won by quite a few major enterprises belonging to different sectors such as food and electronics. All of them prioritize recyclability during the design phase and are making notable contributions in accumulating less waste in landfills. The winner of the award is decided after evaluating certain factors such as the raw materials used, recycling costs and environmental impact.
So how can recycling be considered during product design and how can it be ensured that the product will be recycled effectively when its usage is over? The program has given a number of guiding principles that can be used as a reference.
Every manufacturer should use recyclable raw materials for their product. This may not be possible every time, but whenever it is, it should be done. All the raw materials must be such that they are safe for use and can be recycled at economical rates.
No manufacturer should develop a product, which if recycled, exposes the environment to risks. Such a product might not be recycled and waste management companies will have to opt for more costly and maybe lest effective techniques.
If there is a case in which hazardous raw materials must be used, the manufacturers should collaborate with recyclers in the design phase and ask them for suggestions and advice.
The above principles can easily be followed in most circumstances; this will not be a problem. What can be an issue are the excessive costs that may incur when recycling is considered in the designing phase. This is especially so for smaller companies. As such, the program is making efforts to encourage everyone to play their role and contribute to recycling.
If everyone plays their part, a healthy environment can always be maintained.
Source: www.earth911.com
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