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6.0 Material Reduction and Reusable Packaging Guidelines
6.1 Introduction
6.1.1 Abstract
Source reduction is pari of an integrated approach to reduce solid waste disposal problems. Two
important source reduction techniques include;
material reduction. and
material reuse
In addition to reducing solid waste problems, material reduction and reuse are oRen very cost effec-
tive. The cost effectiveness of material reduction and material reuse programs is often the result of
signiflcant savings in material purchase costs.
6.1.2 Purpose
The purpose of this chapter is to establish references and guidelines for evaluating and deVelOplng
material reduction and reusable packaging programs. The information may be used when alternatives
to disposable containers and materials are needed. These alternatives may be needed when;
packaging material solid waste needs lo be reduced,
packaging material costs need to be reduced,
materials handling or automation improvements are needed, or
Continuous Flow Manufacturing (CFM) programs are required.
The guidelines and references in this chapter should be used as part of packaging and container eval-
uations for new and existing programs. The guidelines and references may help in evaluating
reduction and reuse programs as alternatives to the most environmentally sound and cost effective
packaging for IBM product and pari manufacturing and shipping.
6.2 Material Reduction
6.2.1 Objectives
Besides reducing solid waste problems, material reduction can reduce our depletion of natural
resources and oflen results in a less expensive package. The following are objectives of packaging
material reduction:
. . . . .. .
Use less packaging materials, but still provide the required packaging features and functions, such
as product protection.
Use-les-s packaging materials, but use materials that have been recycled or will be recyclable,
reusable, or have no environmental impacts when disposed in landfills or incinerated.
Use less packaging materials, but use materials that require minimal natural resources and non-
toxic materials lo manufacture.
6.2.2 Material Reduction Techniques
Some material reduction techniques include the following:
Material Reduction and Reusable Packaging Guidelines 45