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Hazardous Waste Generated per dollar state GDP

This indicator tracks the efficiency of Washington's manufacturing sector relative to hazardous waste generation, by comparing the pounds of hazardous waste generated to the state's gross domestic product (GDP).  Comparing hazardous waste generated to GDP gives us a measure of "eco-efficiency," by showing how much waste we produce compared to the amount of economic activity.

Beyond Waste intends to decrease waste generation and the use of toxic substances while maintaining or increasing economic output. A state's gross domestic product, or GDP, is a way of measuring the size of the economy. The GDP includes the total market value of all goods and services produced within the state in a year.

Economic growth in the manufacturing sector, reflected in growth in that sector's GDP, along with reductions in hazardous waste generation, supports Beyond Waste. We can use this indicator to measure our progress in maintaining or increasing economic output as waste quantities are reduced.

Hazardous wastes include wastes identified under federal law and under state regulations. Hazardous waste has toxic, corrosive, reactive, flammable, or persistently hazardous properties that make it dangerous or potentially harmful to human health or the environment. Hazardous wastes can be in any form - liquids, solids, gases (in containers), or sludge.

Between 2000 and 2008, the amount of hazardous waste generated by Washington's manufacturers per dollar of GDP decreased considerably (from 0.008 pounds in 2000 to 0.003 pounds in 2008.) Therefore, there was an increase in the "eco-efficiency" of the manufacturing sector during that time. The value of the manufacturing sector has grown, while the amount of hazardous waste generated has declined. 

Why should we be concerned about the connection between hazardous waste and GDP?

This indicator shows the link between Beyond Waste actions and economic vitality that is, the extent to which waste prevention, reduction, recycling, reuse, and related activities support and promote economic growth.

What are the benefits of reducing the amount of hazardous waste generated per dollar of gross domestic product?

• Increases economic vitality.
• Conserves valuable resources.
• Increases efficiency.
• Reduces manufacturer's costs of managing hazardous wastes.

What are some Beyond Waste actions being taken to decrease hazardous waste generation in Washington?

Ecology and other organizations are:

• Encouraging governments to lead by example, by purchasing environmentally preferable products to increase demand for those products.
• Working with Washington businesses to incorporate Lean manufacturing techniques into their processes.
• Providing on-site technical assistance to control and prevent toxic pollution sources in the Puget Sound area and the Spokane River Basin through the Local Source Control Partnership.
• Providing engineering expertise through the Technical Resources for Engineering Efficiency program (TREE).

Want more information about hazardous waste reduction in Washington?

• Lean and Environment
• Local Source Control Partnership
• Technical Resources for Engineering Efficiency (TREE)
• Environmentally Preferable Purchasing (EPP)