Hazardous waste

 

Hazardous waste originates primarily from chemical and pharmaceutical production processes.

Total amounts of hazardous waste not recycled in 2008 were 114kt (135kt in 2007); an additional 32kt was subject to recycling. Of the hazardous waste not being recycled in 2008, disposal routes were mainly incineration (70%), and treatment (30%).

Novartis has virtually eliminated disposing of hazardous waste to landfills. In 2008 amounts decreased from 99t in 2007 to below one ton. Remaining amounts are some inorganic residues for which no other disposal route exists. The disposal of hazardous waste containing more than 5% organic material was completely eliminated during 2008.

 

Hazardous waste targets and outlook

Novartis globally puts a high priority on avoiding hazardous waste

In 2008, Novartis achieved its global target to virtually eliminate hazardous waste to landfill. A new target was set to stabilize the per production intensity of hazardous waste not being recycled by 2010, and reduce this parameter by 10% by 2012 based on 2008 values.