5 questions about the impact of total waste management partnership

Kurt Wirgau of Envita Solutions describes the benefits of data tracking and reporting with Total Waste Management solutions.

Kurt Wirgau
Envita Solutions
Vice President of
Business Development

1. What is Total Waste Management all about?

Envita Solutions introduced the Total Waste Management (TWM) concept in 2000 to consolidate indirect spending while bringing visibility to everyday waste generation.

The model has evolved into a comprehensive offering including landfill diversion, waste minimization, circularity, equipment optimization, industrial services, project management and other supporting services. TWM is now a common practice among some of the world’s largest and most sustainable brands.

2. Why should organizations pursue Total Waste Management?

Simply put, organizations cannot afford not to. Consumers are no longer making buying decisions based solely on price. Tailored TWM solutions can enhance operational reliability, reduce risk and increase brand protection in support of environmental, social and governance (ESG) goals. Setting sustainability targets is just the beginning. Driving change is where a good TWM provider can move the needle across an organization’s sustainability journey. That starts with bringing visibility to existing management practices so both parties can have a baseline understanding of where opportunities exist. Customized sustainability roadmaps can then be developed and measured to ensure they stay on track.

3. What role do data tracking and reporting play in overall program success?

Access to accurate and timely data is crucial. Envita’s proprietary tech stack provides manufacturers with comprehensive insights into their waste and recycling programs while giving users a highly customized experience. This data visibility becomes a powerful tool for our clients, influencing and reinforcing management decisions in impactful and responsible ways.

4. Should manufacturers turn to asset-based or asset-light providers for their Total Waste Management needs?

There are reputable providers on both ends of the spectrum, but it is important for those seeking support to ensure expectations are aligned with their TWM provider before starting that journey. Envita remains solution-agnostic, giving us the competitive advantage of program flexibility. Our asset-light approach allows Envita to turn big challenges into even bigger opportunities, without limitation, across the North American marketplace.

5. Is the Total Waste Management concept here to stay?

Total Waste Management is a multifaceted tool with staying power. While evolving landscapes impact interest and investment in sustainability, this model has proven effective in overcoming both political and economic pressures. It continuously redefines value creation for manufacturers, providing support and expertise while allowing our manufacturing partners to focus on their core processes. With the intensifying impacts of climate change and the greater need for overall sustainability, the value of TWM will not diminish anytime soon.

January/February 2025
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