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Source
Reduction & Pollution Prevention |
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Minimizing or preventing the generation of solid
and hazardous waste offers the greatest environmental benefits and is a key
element of the environmental program at Roche Carolina. Source reduction,
which includes eliminating or reducing process waste, is employed throughout
the development phase of the product lifecycle. For each new drug compound
developed at Roche Carolina, waste reduction goals are established. Progress
toward meeting these goals are measured and reported to Site management.
Typically, 25-50% of chemical waste is eliminated during the new drug
development process.
Once the process for a new drug compound has been finalized, selected waste
streams are evaluated for recycling and re-use. Each multi-purpose
production unit includes a reactor distiller, which can be used to recover
30-40% of the solvent processed. A central solvent recovery column is used
to further enhance the recovery of solvents back into the manufacturing
process. Since various solvents are used at Roche Carolina, the solvent
recovery columns are equipped with systems capable of separating and
purifying a wide variety of mixtures. For example, during the year 2000, we
recovered over 330,000 gallons of solvents, which were reused in the
manufacturing process.
Roche Carolina has established a number of programs to reduce pollution. We
have implemented a program to recycle non-process related waste material
including paper, cardboard, used oil filters, batteries and fluorescent
light bulbs. Additionally, used aluminum cans generated by employees are
collected and sent-off for scrap metal recycling. Any proceeds are donated
by the recycler directly to the burn center for children in the name of
Roche employees. In early 1999, a service was identified which collects and
recycles Tyvek personal protective equipment. All proceeds generated from
the recycling of this equipment is donated to the "Pee Dee Coalition Against
Domestic and Sexual Assault" non-profit United Way Organization. |
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