Step by step method to calculate your waste diversion rate

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Waste diversion is a crucial aspect of sustainable development, and calculating the diversion rate is an essential step in achieving waste reduction goals. The TRUE (Total Resource Use and Efficiency) certification program provides a framework for businesses to implement sustainable waste management practices and measure their diversion rates. In this article, we will discuss a sample calculation for the TRUE diversion rate in a step-by-step method.

Step 1: Determine the Materials Generated

The first step in calculating the TRUE diversion rate is to identify all the materials generated within the project boundaries. This includes all the waste that is generated during the project, such as construction waste, packaging materials, and other materials used in the project.

For example, let’s say a construction company generates 10,000 pounds of waste materials during a project, including wood, concrete, drywall, and metal.

Step 2: Determine the Materials Diverted

The next step is to determine the materials that have been diverted from landfill, incineration, and the environment. This includes all the materials that have been recycled, composted, or reused.

For example,

Waste diversion is an important aspect of sustainable development, and calculating the diversion rate is a key step in achieving waste reduction goals. The TRUE (Total Resource Use and Efficiency) certification program provides a framework for businesses to implement sustainable waste management practices and measure their diversion rates. In this article, we will discuss a sample calculation for the TRUE diversion rate in a step-by-step method, using weight units of kg.

Step 1: Determine the Materials Generated

The first step in calculating the TRUE diversion rate is to identify all the materials generated within the project boundaries. This includes all the waste that is generated during the project, such as construction waste, packaging materials, and other materials used in the project.

For example, let’s say a construction company generates 4,535.92 kg of waste materials during a project, including wood, concrete, drywall, and metal.

Step 2: Determine the Materials Diverted

The next step is to determine the materials that have been diverted from landfill, incineration, and the environment. This includes all the materials that have been recycled, composted, or reused.

For example, let’s say the construction company diverted 2,267.96 kg of waste through various means, such as recycling, composting, or reuse.

Step 3: Calculate the Diversion Rate

The diversion rate is calculated by dividing the weight of the materials diverted by the weight of the materials generated, expressed as a percentage.

Diversion Rate = (Weight of Materials Diverted / Weight of Materials Generated) x 100

In this example, the diversion rate would be calculated as follows:

Diversion Rate = (2,267.96 kg / 4,535.92 kg) x 100 = 50%

This means that the construction company diverted 50% of their waste from landfill, incineration, and the environment through sustainable waste management practices.

Step 4: Verify the Diversion Rate

It is important to note that the TRUE certification program requires verification of the diversion rate by an independent third party. The verification process ensures that the diversion rate is accurate and meets the requirements of the certification program.

In conclusion, calculating the TRUE diversion rate is an important step in achieving sustainable waste management practices. By following the above steps, businesses can measure their waste diversion efforts and work towards reducing their environmental impact.