Beyond Waste home > Navigate to a plan section > Industries - Today's Reality

Today's Reality

Washington State’s population is projected to grow dramatically to 7.8 million by 2025. Hazardous wastes, toxic releases from manufacturing processes, and product consumption will also increase. This will increase the potential for human exposure to toxic chemicals and environmental degradation. At the same time, most industries will be looking for ways to increase their market share and reduce costs to stay competitive in an increasingly global marketplace. It is a very tough time for businesses in Washington. This was the recurring theme expressed at Ecology’s Hazardous Waste Generator focus groups in 2003.

Washington’s economy is in the midst of change. Manufacturing jobs are diminishing and, as the population increases, there will be additional growth with service industries. These changes affect the type of wastes generated and hazardous substances used. Based on projected employment, some traditional industries, such as aerospace and aluminum production, are expected to continue to decrease. Other sectors are expected to increase such as chemical manufacturing, petroleum refining, government, services, electrical/electronic equipment production, wholesale trade, and industrial machinery/equipment.

<-- Back              Next -->