One of the largest ever waste minimisation programmes in the UK will get under way next month on Sussex industrial estates.

After successful trialling with local businesses throughout 1999, it is expected companies involved will each save at least £1,000 a year.

Sussex Enterprise is keen to introduce clear and cost-effective methods of waste minimisation for local small to medium sized companies based on the designated industrial parks.

The programme is set to run for ten months until the end of December 2000, with interested companies recruited during February. A minimum of ten companies on each of 25 targeted Business Parks will take part.

Arnold Clenshaw, director of membership and economic development at Sussex Enterprise, said: "Stringent legislation, rising disposal costs, possible fines and clean-up costs have all highlighted an urgent need for businesses to minimise the waste they generate. However, pilot studies have shown they can save money by re-assessing production methods as well as their handling and disposal of waste."

As waste can account for up to four per cent of a company's turnover, the programme emphasises the need to target the source of creation, rather than just finding cheaper ways to recycle or dispose of waste.

The anticipated outcome of the programme will be significant improvements in bottom line profits for companies from waste reduction. It is also hoped the project will lead to the identification of new and improved manufacturing processes and better relations with waste contractors.

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