Waste minimisation is the central theme of a waste management strategy. Implementing this however can also highlight legal compliance issues and reduce risks, i.e. investigating the use and disposal of materials inevitably leads to consideration of the type of materials used, "can we use less a less hazardous material?" and whether storage and transport of materials on site is efficient and safe.

An integrated waste management strategy will encompass both minimisation and control elements.

The next section provides a summary of the benefits that companies who have taken part in Waste Management programmes feel they have gained.

Cost Savings, improved throughput, reduced risk & liability, Improved environmental performance

• reduced raw material costs including utilities (leading to reduced Environmental impact)
• reduced waste disposal costs & effluent treatment
• reduced operating costs - increase Right First Time
• reduced insurance premiums (hazardous waste)
• improved public image, (local news, re-cycle)
• increase sales (can gain sales real from improved image, but also get better value for resource in effect also increasing sales)
• satisfy - environmental regulation, producer packaging
• positive step toward environmental management (whether decide to go for ISO14000 accreditation or not)
• reduced need for capital expenditure on waste treatment and pollution abatement facilities