Joining the WasteWise Program
imageWISE is a proud endorser level member of the EPA WasteWise program. This program is a free, voluntary, best practices methodology through which organizations
eliminate costly municipal solid waste and select industrial wastes, benefiting
their bottom line and the environment. WasteWise is a flexible program that
allows partners to design their own waste reduction programs tailored to their
needs.
All organizations within the United States may join the program. Large and
small businesses from any industry sector are welcome to participate.
Institutions, such as hospitals and universities, non-profits, and other
organizations, as well as state, local, and tribal governments, are also
eligible to participate in WasteWise.
Waste reduction makes good business sense because it can save your
organization money through reduced purchasing and waste disposal costs.
WasteWise provides free technical assistance to help you develop, implement, and
measure your waste reduction activities. WasteWise offers publicity to
organizations that are successful in reducing waste through EPA publications, case studies, and
national and regional events. These events also provide networking opportunities
for organizations to share waste reduction ideas and success stories.
There is no fee for membership in WasteWise. EPA designed WasteWise to be a
free, voluntary, flexible program. The amount of time and money you invest is up
to you! You are free to set goals that are the most feasible and cost-effective
for your organization. In the long run, waste reduction can save your
organization money.
The corporate headquarters and/or facilities of a parent company or holding
company can join WasteWise regardless of whether its subsidiaries join. Any of
the subsidiaries may choose to join at a later date either on their own or as a
part of the parent company's membership.
Complete the registration form, which
you may fill out online, download, or obtain by calling the WasteWise Helpline
at (800) EPA-WISE.
Setting Up a WasteWise Program
WasteWise targets the reduction of municipal solid waste and select
industrial wastes. Municipal solid waste includes materials that could end up in
an organization's (or its customers') trash, such as corrugated containers,
office paper, yard trimmings, packaging, and wood pallets. Participants can also
address industrial wastes such as non-hazardous batteries, coal combustion
products, foundry sand, non-hazardous sludges, oil filters, non-hazardous ink,
and porcelain. WasteWise partners range from small local governments and
nonprofit organizations to large, multinational corporations. Key aspects of
successful WasteWise programs include:
Management support
After you have obtained management support and involvement and have joined
the WasteWise program, we suggest that you establish a waste reduction team and
select a team leader. Garnering the support of a group of individuals will
facilitate the design and implementation of your program and ensure the success
of achieving your goals.
Waste assessments
To help identify measures you can take to reduce the amount of waste you
generate, we encourage you to conduct a waste assessment. An assessment can help
you identify waste reduction opportunities and establish a baseline for
measuring progress. Your WasteWise Assessment Form is due two months after you
receive your New Partner Packet, which will contain the form and information to
assist you in completing it. If you need additional information or technical
assistance to complete the form, feel free to contact the Helpline.
Employee education
Once EPA approves your WasteWise Assessment Form, you will receive the
WasteWise logo for internal and external use, with some restrictions. In
addition, WasteWise has developed a sample press release and newsletter to
assist you in announcing your commitment to WasteWise.
Measurement and reporting
Track your progress and report your results to WasteWise.
Program maintenance
Keep up the momentum by continuously looking for ways to enhance your waste
reduction program. Encourage management to make your waste reduction program a
priority and maintain employee involvement
