The first step is to understand how your company uses resources (raw materials, components, water, energy, etc) and why waste is produced.
Carry out an initial review
An initial review of your premises can highlight opportunities for quick savings from no-cost and low-cost measures, or measures with a short payback period. Use the Envirowise Indicator tool to help gauge how much resources you are using and the environmental impact that this is having as a result.
Produce a Process Map
Identify your company’s main inputs and outputs. Start by looking at your company or site as
a whole to identify the raw materials and utilities used as well as the wastes produced.
Populate the Process Map with Data
How much inputs and outputs do you have to and from your site? Some data may already be available on-site (eg from existing meters, invoices and purchasing records).
Take Simple Measurements
The more accurately you can measure these data, the easier it will be to identify areas of wastage and inefficiency. Eg: deliveries, stock levels.
Make Simple Estimates
Estimate through sampling and experimentation as well as estimating using a mass balance.
Measurement at a Process/Department Level
This is relevant for processes at a particular production line or department.
Calculate the Value Added
Each step of the process adds value to a product and incurs a cost from the labour, materials and
utilities (gas, water, etc..) used in that process.
For more information please download Measuring to Manage – a ‘how-to’ guide