The reduction of waste at source, by understanding and changing processes to reduce and prevent waste. This is also known as process or resource efficiency. Waste minimisation can include the substitution of less environmentally harmful materials in the production process.

the redesign of a product or process to reduce both the amount of raw materials used and waste.

An approach to waste management that stresses the minimisation of wastes at source, by the adoption of techniques and processes that reduce the waste stream, by the improvement of well-established processes to minimise the problem; by increasing the rate of recovery and recycling within the plant itself so as to minimise the waste-disposal problem; or by adopting product materials and standards that reduce the waste stream.