waste management implementation in textile industry & waste impacts on the environment

Egypt is well-known in the world not only for its old heritage but also for its valued presence in superior quality of textiles. However, the textile industry is highly polluting industry. The production of textiles often emits large quantities of pollutants to the environment. Therefore, it is very important to minimize its impact on the environment by stablishing a proper waste management system. The present study is dealing with developing a “Waste Management System” and implementing it in a real situation. The system was established as a continues improvement cycle, waste management system started with defining waste, Waste classification, waste segregation, company policy of reducing waste & dealing with waste, commitment of top management for better handling waste procedures. The established policy focused on reducing solid waste generated in form of waste fiber, fabrics, cartons, plastics, empty containers, The system included: formation of a waste management team, data collection, monitoring reports and audits. An action plan with specific goals was created based on recommendations of the waste management team, and related cost savings were calculated & waste reduction practices applied.

The implemented actions reflected a direct reduction in waste generation, consequently provided large cost savings.

The investigation revealed that the applied waste management system is an effective tool for minimizing waste generation, reducing negative impact of textile production on the environment and enhance cost savings. Furthermore, the followed waste management system in this study can be implemented in similar industries.

The waste created in the textile and garment industry consists of fabrics and trims—including buttons, embroidery threads, and other adornments. It is estimated that 10-25% of fabric is wasted during cutting process. Waste can be happened because of misprints and embroidery mistakes. If the printing and embroidery is done efficiently, it can help eliminate textile waste to a great extent.

The cutting floor waste can be generated because of wrong sample making, sewing waste from poor craftsmanship, and finishing process waste from dyeing and embroidery can be eliminated by good craftsmanship and care. Correct estimation of fabric consumption can help reduce waste by avoiding of orders of excess fabric quantities.

Waste management practices can differ for developed and developing nations, for urban and rural areas, and for residential and industrial manufacturers or producers. This is in order to reduce the negative impacts of wastes on environment and society.