What is Pollution Prevention?

Pollution prevention simply means reducing the amount of waste you generate by changing the way you do business. Changes include using less hazardous materials, conserving energy and water, improving indoor and outdoor air quality, reusing or recycling leftover materials, and managing waste properly.

The bottom line is pollution prevention can...

  • Save you money
  • Reduce your regulatory burden
  • Create a safer working environment
  • Improve your public image

Pollution Prevention Tips

  • Practice good inventory control to prevent duplication and the expiration of materials, and encourage the proper use of materials
  • Purchase less hazardous cleaners, shampoos, ointments, etc.
  • Purchase reusable underpads, gowns, diapers, etc.
  • Recycle cardboard, newspaper, office paper, aluminum cans, etc.
  • Place recycling bins where the public can easily use them
  • Turn off lights in unoccupied rooms
  • Use energy-efficient lighting
  • Service heating, cooling, and ventilation systems regularly
  • Fix water leaks right away
  • Know what can and cannot be discharged to the local sewer system
  • Keep hazardous and non-hazardous wastes segregated
  • Dispose of sharps in labeled, puncture-resistant containers with lids