Strategies for reducing waste also encourage a focus on innovation, he says. “Overall improvements in the working environment also give rise to more engaged employees. In turn, increased employee engagement can result in improved worker productivity and lower turnover.”

Carpenter offers a concise ‘roadmap’ to zero waste. Tactics include gaining senior leadership buy-in, engaging employees, setting a goal, gathering data and developing metrics, and obtaining supplier commitment.

Smart companies find that revenue opportunities, brand building, and risk management are important parts of waste strategies. It’s one strategy among many that is “how you build a business,” says Sauers.

This article is sponsored by Procter & Gamble.