Eco-Efficiency as a Decision Tool for Cleaner Production:Application for SMEs in Thailand

摘要

Investment in cleaner production options is attractive economically as it reduces the cost of production. Of equally importance are the benefits realized from the reduction of environmental contaminants that result from unclean production processes. A decision making process can be adapted to translate cleaner production options into feasible investment options by using an eco-efficiency concept that will eliminate, or substantially reduce, such negative environmental impacts. The goal of this study was to demonstrate to Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) that a significant cost reduction in raw materials use can be realized, as well as being able to substantially reduce pollution loads, are possible at a low, or even no investment cost. The author?s study shows that the amount of water, energy saving cost and chemical saving cost could be lower by at least 90, 7 and 8%, respectively.