What does "clean production" refer to in a ZW context?

In a Zero Waste (ZW) context, "clean production" specifically refers to production processes that generate minimal waste. This approach emphasizes efficiency and sustainability, aiming to reduce the environmental impact of manufacturing activities by minimizing waste output and avoiding pollution. Clean production strategies often include redesigning products, improving resource use, and integrating sustainable practices into the manufacturing process.

This focus on waste reduction allows companies to not only decrease their ecological footprint but also often leads to cost savings and enhanced competitiveness in a market that increasingly values sustainability. Therefore, the concept of clean production aligns perfectly with the principles of Zero Waste, viewing waste as a design flaw and seeking to eliminate it at the source.