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Factors affecting resource use optimisation of the chemical industry in the Northern Ostrobothnia region of Finland

Garcia, V., Pongracz, E., Phillips, P. S. and Keiski, R. (2008) Factors affecting resource use optimisation of the chemical industry in the Northern Ostrobothnia region of Finland. Journal of Cleaner Production. 16(12), pp. 1987-1994. 0959-6526.

Item Type: Article
Abstract: To gather data on the resource efficiency of the chemical sector, a questionnaire was sent to the chemical companies in the Northern Ostrobothnia region of Finland. Resource use optimisation was investigated by analysing measures and attitudes toward waste prevention. The survey revealed that legislation is the main driver for change in the chemical industry. The analysis showed a clear lack of monitoring practice as well as a lack of understanding of major concepts, such as that of the nature of waste. Process optimisation to reduce raw material losses and energy consumption is a key utilised practice. Practices aimed at water usage reduction are rarely employed. Lack of information, regulative restrictions set on waste materials and lack of human resources are barriers to waste reduction practice. Improving information, education and training of employees in waste issues and increasing environmental awareness are essential for companies in the Chemical Industry in Northern Ostrobothnia to move toward resource use optimisation
Uncontrolled Keywords: Resource use optimisation, waste prevention, chemical industry, industrial ecology, green chemistry
Subjects: H Social Sciences > HD Industries. Land use. Labor > HD60 Social responsibility of business
G Geography. Anthropology. Recreation > GE Environmental Sciences > GE300 Environmental management
T Technology > TD Environmental technology. Sanitary engineering > TD896 Industrial and factory wastes
H Social Sciences > HD Industries. Land use. Labor > HD72 Economic growth, development, planning > HD75.6 Environmental economics. Sustainable development
H Social Sciences > HD Industries. Land use. Labor > HD9650 Chemical industries
Creators: Garcia, Veronica, Pongracz, E, Phillips, Paul S and Keiski, Riitta
Publisher: Elsevier
Faculties, Divisions and Institutes: University Faculties, Divisions and Research Centres - OLD > School of Applied Sciences (to 2009) > Environmental Science (to 2009)
Date: December 2008
Date Type: Publication
Page Range: pp. 1987-1994
Journal or Publication Title: Journal of Cleaner Production
Volume: 16
Number: 12
Language: English
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2008.02.001
ISSN: 0959-6526
Status: Published / Disseminated
Refereed: Yes
URI: http://nectar.northampton.ac.uk/id/eprint/1768

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