Kaitlyn Gilles from Green Bay Packaging Inc. presented on strategies for managing waste sustainably beyond typical recycling efforts. This includes conducting waste audits to identify waste streams and volumes, tracking metrics to quantify baseline waste and measure reduction progress, and minimizing waste at its source through techniques like material substitution and purchase of recycled goods. Waste can then be diverted from landfills through proper separation and management for recovery. Engaging employees through educational signage, waste labeling, and involvement in audits supports waste reduction and diversion efforts. Local resources are available to assist businesses with programs.

1. Presented by:
Kaitlyn Gilles
Green Bay Packaging Inc.
Sustainability: Beyond Recycling

2. Managing Waste Strategically
Strategic exit for inputs
Purchase $ + Disposal $
Zero waste; diverting from landfill.
Local resources available for assistance.
Source: Greater Cincinnati Green Business Council (GCGBC) – Waste Management Strategy Toolkit.

3. Waste Audits & Data Tracking
Conducting Waste Audit
Identify waste streams – composition & volume.
Right-sizing, type, & placement of collection containers
Are wastes going into the correct containers?
How are raw materials entering facility or office? (frequency & types of containers)
Tracking Metrics
Quantifies baseline & measures progress of efforts
Enables benchmarking against other businesses
Allows for communication of initiatives and data to back up claims.

4. Minimizing Waste Generated: Source Reduction
Purchase goods with end use in mind.
Material substitution
Close the loop by purchasing recycled & re- purposed goods.
Industry best management practices
Spill prevention
Product handling practices
Preventative maintenance

5. Waste Diversion
Segregate wastes
Cost-to-revenue
Management for recovery

6. Where can you find resources?
Brown County Household Hazardous Waste Facility (HHWF) - VSQG
Tri-County Material Recycling Facility (MRF)
Collection Days (E-Waste)
Suppliers; reverse backhaul
Networking at Conferences
Like-Industries
Agency factsheets; WDNR & others
browncountyrecycling.org

7. Employee Engagement
Educational signage
Label waste containers
Importance of program
Ask for employee input
Have employees participate in waste audit.
Purchasing
Employee champions
Recognition - Provide feedback on successes

8. Kaitlyn Gilles
Green Bay Packaging Inc.
kgilles@gbp.com
(920) 433-5134
Any Questions?