Methods of Waste Minimization
Source Reduction (Pollution Prevention)
The most desirable method of waste minimization is source reduction, which reduces the impact of chemical wastes on the environment to the greatest extent. This is an activity that reduces or eliminates the generation of chemical waste at the source.
Recycling
The next most desirable approach is waste minimization through recycling. When a waste material is used for another purpose, treated and reused in the same process, or reclaimed for another process, this is called recycling.
Treatment
The last minimization method is treatment. The most common treatment that can be performed in laboratories is elementary neutralization. Other kinds of treatment may involve chemical, physical or biological methods.