Jäännöslisäkäyttö

Jäännöslisäkäyttö is a Finnish term that translates to "residual reuse" or "residual supplementary use" in English. It refers to the practice of finding new applications for materials that would otherwise be considered waste or byproducts from industrial processes or resource extraction. The core concept is to minimize waste by maximizing the value and utility of every component generated.

This approach can manifest in various industries. For example, in forestry, bark and wood chips that are not suitable for timber or pulp can be used for energy generation, as mulch in landscaping, or as a raw material for bio-composites. In mining and quarrying, excavated rock and soil that are not needed for backfill can be processed for use in construction as aggregate or as engineered fill. Similarly, slag from metal smelting can be utilized in cement production or road construction.

The benefits of jäännöslisäkäyttö are multi-faceted. It reduces the volume of waste sent to landfills, thereby conserving land resources and mitigating environmental pollution. It also promotes a more circular economy by conserving virgin resources and reducing the energy and environmental impact associated with their extraction and processing. Furthermore, it can create new economic opportunities by developing markets for these repurposed materials. Effective jäännöslisäkäyttö often requires innovation in material science, processing technologies, and logistical management to ensure the quality and usability of the residual materials.