Technological University wcmasmes.ppt1 Water Conservation & Management in Asian SMEs

Technological University wcmasmes.ppt2 Introduction SMEs characterize 70 – 90% of the Asian economies Many struggle to stay afloat, especially after 1997 Asian economic meltdown Environmental issues increasingly dominate business decisions Water shortage and increasing price of water play a major role

Technological University wcmasmes.ppt3 Introduction Due to financial difficulties, SMEs are reluctant to pay attention to wastewater minimization and pollution prevention Ironically, holistic environmental management tools can help SMEs become cost effective and thus more competitive

Technological University wcmasmes.ppt4 Water Sources Evaluation Water scarcity changed water management approaches dramatically world-wide New methods to meet demand without major construction or large-scale water transfers are being developed Efficiency improvements, wastewater recycling and reclamation and reallocation of water among users are also being explored

Technological University wcmasmes.ppt5 Impact of Industrialization Industrialization has been a cause of pollution for two centuries Growth of industrialization and congestion would eventually overwhelm infrastructure and impede growth This has serious implications on economic performance

Technological University wcmasmes.ppt6 Tightening of regulation Increasing awareness of governments on long-term consequences of pollution led to increased efforts to reduce wastes through regulation Instances of success came with enormous costs Regulatory approach usually assumes waste will have to be generated as industrialization continues

Technological University wcmasmes.ppt7 Preventive Process Engineering Industries should move forward from end-of- pipe approaches to cleaner and sustainable production which are more cost effective The greater pollution prevention is integrated in industrial process, the less cost per unit of impact reduction Requires integrated water supply and wastewater collection and disposal consideration for optimum solutions

Technological University wcmasmes.ppt8 Towards Economical, Environmental, & Social Sustainability Through integrating the ecological & socio- economic environment, companies can increase their profits for business as well Reducing inputs of resources & avoiding toxic clean-ups significantly lower a company’s cost Brand loyalty & increased marketing opportunities due to environmental friendliness equate with increased revenue

Technological University wcmasmes.ppt9 Sustainable Development: Strategies Environmental Management System: Standards  ISO  EMAS  BS7750 Environmental Management Tools  Waste Minimization  Cleaner Production  Green Productivity

Technological University wcmasmes.ppt10 Water Conservation Measures in Asian SMEs Industries such as dyeing, printing, food, leather, & electroplating have adopted various water conservation approaches Water Efficiency  Flow restrictor for better flow control  Stop valve for immediate water cut off when idle  Shower head spray for efficient washing process  Correct size of piping to optimize water usage  Recycle good quality wastewater for washing or rinsing purpose

Technological University wcmasmes.ppt11 Water Conservation Measures in Asian SMEs Pollution Reduction  Covered wastewater sources minimizes safety & health risks to workers  Rearrangement & modification of process tanks & chemical storage eliminate inherent safety hazards  Retrieval of chemicals such as sulfanilic acid & alum from wastewater reduces pollution Wastewater can be segregated, allowing specific treatment in each stream & make overall treatment more effective and efficient

Technological University wcmasmes.ppt12 Water Conservation Measures in Asian SMEs Recycled materials from wastewater can be reused to reduce chemicals consumption Improvements in processes & operations results in economic savings & better product quality Pollution can be controlled effectively & consumption of water can be minimized significantly

Technological University wcmasmes.ppt13 Barriers to Sustainable Development Lack of Awareness Regarding Sustainable Development Poor Enforcement of Environmental Regulations Obsolete Environmental Standards & Regulations

Technological University wcmasmes.ppt14 Barriers to Sustainable Development Insufficient Recognition from Society & Regulatory Body Absence of Transparency in Asian Industrial Operation Inaccessibility of Financing for SMEs

Technological University wcmasmes.ppt15 Overcoming Barriers Change in Strategic Planning Regulations and Enforcement Differentiate Between Existing & Future Industries Focus on SMEs

Technological University wcmasmes.ppt16 Overcoming Barriers Improve Financing for SMEs Create Transparency in Industry Build Public Awareness and Empower the Community

Technological University wcmasmes.ppt17 Conclusions The most powerful stakeholder in the scheme of things: Governments of Asia Asian governments should lead in effecting changes required for widespread adoption of sustainable practices It is time to seriously consider sustainable development as a way out of economic peril onto the road of recovery

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