What is Waste management?

Waste management is a key aspect of any industrial process, especially in sectors such as plastic injection molding, where the intensive use of materials and energy results in various types of waste. This concept encompasses all stages related to waste handling—from its generation on the production line to its treatment, recovery, or final disposal—always guided by principles of efficiency, safety, and sustainability.

In the context of injection molding, waste can originate from multiple sources. Among the most common are rejected parts due to defects, trims or flashes resulting from the injection process, leftover materials in the system at the end of a production run, and waste produced during mold and machinery cleaning or maintenance. This category also includes packaging from raw materials, purged plastic, or residues contaminated with lubricants or cleaning agents.

Effective waste management begins with accurately identifying the types of waste generated. These can be classified into recoverable waste (such as recyclable thermoplastics that can be reintroduced into the production process), non-hazardous non-recoverable waste (such as cardboard, wood, or certain packaging), and hazardous waste requiring specialized treatment in compliance with environmental regulations.

In modern plastic manufacturing, a primary goal is to minimize waste generation, both for economic reasons and out of environmental responsibility. This is achieved through several strategies, including optimizing mold design and injection cycles to reduce scrap, precisely controlling process parameters to avoid defective parts, and implementing in-house recycling systems that allow rejected materials to be reused.

Another critical component is waste traceability. Properly recording the type, quantity, and destination of each waste category facilitates regulatory compliance and supports continuous improvement in environmental management. For this purpose, companies typically work with certified waste management providers who handle collection, transportation, and final treatment, ensuring compliance with legislation on industrial waste.

Beyond legal compliance, efficient waste management is a strategic tool to enhance corporate image, obtain environmental certifications, and meet growing market and customer demands for sustainability. At Plásticos Lezo, responsible waste management is an integral part of our broader commitment to continuous improvement and environmental respect.

Thanks to a combination of advanced technology, standardized procedures, and a highly qualified technical team, Plásticos Lezo works to minimize material waste at every stage of the injection process. We promote circular economy principles through scrap reuse and the maximum use of every kilogram of raw material, without compromising product quality or traceability.

In summary, waste management is not just a legal obligation or a logistical matter—it is a fundamental component of industrial efficiency and sustainability. In fields like injection molding, where every gram of material counts, implementing proactive policies of reduction, reuse, and recycling is essential to improving competitiveness, lowering operational costs, and contributing to a cleaner, more responsible environment.