MAXIMIZING RESOURCE UTILIZATION: AN INTEGRATED FRAMEWORK FOR IMPROVING MATERIAL USAGE EFFICIENCY IN INDUSTRIAL PROCESSES

Efficient utilization of materials is a critical challenge facing modern society. The need for sustainable resource management has become increasingly urgent, and reducing waste and increasing the efficiency of material use is vital in achieving this goal. Material usage efficiency (MUE) is the measure of the effectiveness of a system in utilizing material resources in production, consumption, and disposal processes. The paper discusses the importance of material usage efficiency in various industries, including manufacturing, construction, and energy. It examines the challenges and opportunities associated with improving material efficiency, such as the development of new materials, advanced manufacturing processes, and the integration of circular economy principles. The paper also explores various approaches to measuring material usage efficiency, including life cycle assessment, ecoefficiency analysis, and material flow analysis. It highlights the importance of metrics and indicators for evaluating material efficiency and guiding decision-making processes. The review identifies key factors that affect material usage efficiency, including product design, process optimization, material selection, and recycling and reuse strategies. It also discusses the role of policies and regulations in promoting material efficiency and reducing waste. Our analysis shows that improving MUE can yield significant benefits in terms of resource conservation, environmental protection, and economic savings. However, achieving meaningful improvements in MUE requires a comprehensive approach that addresses the complex interplay of technical, economic, and societal factors. We conclude that MUE is a crucial concept that should be at the forefront of sustainable development efforts, and we provide recommendations for future research and policy action to advance this critical area of study