Cleaner Production in Industry: Capacity Building and Implementation

Abstract

Cleaner production (CP) is a recognised and proven strategy for improving the efficient use of natural resources and minimizing waste, pollution and risks at the source where they are generated. CP is an essential part of any comprehensive environmental management system. Significant reductions in pollution loads can often be obtained at a low cost, and efficient use of resources and reduction in pollution in industrial production are clearly preferable to reliance on the end-of-pipe treatment. CP means a continuous application of an integrated preventive environmental strategy to processes, products and services to increase overall efficiency. This leads to improved environmental performance, cost savings, and the reduction of risks to humans and the environment. CP is achieved by applying know-how, by improving technology, by input substitution, by better process control and/or by changing attitudes. Investments in CP can have attractive economic benefits due to reduction of input costs of materials, energy and water, and reduced expenditures related to waste treatment and disposal. The article is focused on cleaner production concept, CP innovation development and implementation methodology, and the key issues related to cleaner production capacity building activities in a country. In addition to an example of an innovative transdiciplinary education programme, the article provides recommendations concerning the most effective ways to build basic capacity level in cleaner production.