It's relatively easy for companies to hear about a new technology or process; the trick is getting them to adopt it. That is why the Waste Management & Research Center (WMRC) created the Accelerated Diffusion of Pollution Prevention Technologies (ADOP2T) model.
New technology and new ways of doing things can be intimidating. For new technology to be widely used, it must be tested, it must be available for review, and industry leaders must adopt it. The ADOP2T program establishes showcase demonstration sites in actual facilities. WMRC asks the industry to define its needs and what technologies or practices the industry would like to see explored. In exchange for participating, a facility receives WMRC assistance in setting up, testing, and evaluating a new technology. On site demonstrations, on-site technical assistance and testimonials from key industry leaders combine to show companies how they can have more efficient processes and a better fiscal bottom line.
WMRC continued to make innovative strides in the ADOP2T program during the past year. Some highlights included:
- A large Printed Wiring Board (PWB) facility has been working with WMRC on a water recycling using Reverse Osmosis. This project is almost complete, pending the analytical results of pilot test samples. This facility is also piloting Conductivity Control in a rinse bath on a plating line. The company has saved 50% on their water usage for just this one bath (412,000 gallons per year).
- A small PWB facility (less than 25 employees) has eliminated 100% of a hazardous waste stream that had been hauled off-site for disposal. The waste stream is now processed on-site which saves the company $20,000 per year.
- To advance the efficacy of WMRC’s on-site technical assistance, two members of the Pollution Prevention Group are receiving energy audit training to become Certified Energy Managers. This will allow WMRC’s assessment teams to do a complete Energy Efficiency/Pollution Prevention (E2/P2) assessment.
WMRC also is part of a three state ADOP2T initiative (Illinois, Kentucky, and Minnesota). This program leverages efforts to diffuse innovative technologies into targeted sectors (fiber reinforced plastics, coating & painting, printed wiring board, and metal finishing). For more information on ADOP2T, contact Dr. Tim Lindsey.
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