Which of the following contributes to reducing the generation of waste in maintenance practices?

Optimizing maintenance schedules contributes to reducing the generation of waste in maintenance practices by ensuring that tasks are performed efficiently and at the right time. When maintenance schedules are well-planned, equipment is less likely to break down unexpectedly, which can lead to a surge in waste due to improper disposal of damaged parts or tools.

Additionally, effective scheduling allows for the use of preventive maintenance, which can extend the life of equipment and minimize the need for frequent repairs or replacements. This proactive approach not only reduces waste but also enhances the overall sustainability of maintenance operations.

While frequent equipment checks and using biodegradable materials can also play a role in waste management, they do not address the broader scope of waste generation quite like optimized scheduling does. Increasing downtime for repairs, on the other hand, would likely lead to more disruptions and potential waste without providing significant benefits to waste reduction.