THE DEVELOPMENT OF A WASTE MINIMIZATION PROGRAM AT AMOCO-OIL-COMPANY

The development of the waste minimization program for Amoco Oil Company's refineries is discussed, from its conception through its evolution and present-day status. Beginning with a commitment from top management, a corporate waste minimization mission was defined; goals and objectives were set; and a program was outlined. In 1987, a task force was formed to evaluate the current refining system waste minimization activities and to establish a program baseline. A waste minimization coordinator was tasked with defining a program to update current activities and to keep the refining system focused on meeting the established objectives. This includes educating the refining system on waste minimization definitions and issues; effectively communicating goals, ideas, and methods; and team building to maintain enthusiasm. The role of Amoco's R&D department in the waste minimization program is presented, including the development of software to track waste generation, processing, disposal, and costs. Finally, brief case-studies of successfully implemented soutce control and Tesource recovery projects are presented.