Increasingly stringent stream discharge regulations have prompted an assessment of the current technology available for application to the metal finishing waste treatment problem, specifically in regard to smaller operations. Experimental laboratory and bench scale studies were then conducted on several unconventional wastewater treatment methods, including ion flotation, activated carbon adsorption, acidification volatilization, and solvent extraction. A demonstration pilot plant study was also conducted on the activated carbon process employing actual rinse waters from a zinc cyanide plating operation. The pilot scale activated carbon system was operated at 99% efficiency of cyanide removal, while providing for the complete recovery and regeneration of copper. Cost estimates for carbon sorption process are given.