Abstract
A comprehensive system of waste statistics should aim at a broad description of the material flows of an economy. Valuable information on these flows can be obtained from industrial and related statistics. The usefulness of Finnish industrial statistics in evaluating the generation and the use of residuals in industry can be assessed using a general materials balance approach in combination with a simple model.
Because of deficient data bases, full-scale materials balance accounting is difficult at present. However, the model provides a tool for analysing the material flows relevant to waste statistics. Finnish industrial statistics yield some quantitative estimates of recycled residuals, but do not in general give satisfactory descriptions of industrial material flows from the point of view of comprehensive waste statistics.
In an effort to improve the data bases for material flows and wastes, a waste classification is being developed in Finland. The potential for connecting it with industrial statistics is being explored.
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