Pollution Prevention
Encyclopedia : P : PO : POL : Pollution Prevention
Pollution prevention (P2) is a term used to describe a series of techniques that are used to reduce the amount of pollution generated. It is in direct contrast to most pollution control strategies which seek to manage a pollutant and reduce its impact upon the environment. The pollution prevention approach seeks to increase the efficiency of a process, which reduces the amount of pollution generated. Although there is wide agreement that source reduction is the preferred strategy, some professionals also use the term pollution prevention to include recycling or reuse.
Legislation
The [Pollution Prevention Act of 1990] was passed to encourage pollution prevention in the United States. Since then several states have adopted pollution prevention legislation.Advantages
One advantage of pollution prevention is that it often leads to profitability. Manufacturing facilities may use pollution prevention to more efficiently produce an item. Pollution prevention can reduce use of energy, water and other raw materials, saving a company money. It is therefore considered a win win situation.How to Implement P2
Pollution prevention implementation can be challenging. It requires innovative thinking, and often involves a team approach. The most [successful companies] usually follow a pollution prevention planning process. This process may include analysis of the waste, its source, brainstorming for ideas from employees, total cost accounting and other tools for identifying [options] for reducing pollution.The US Environmental Protection Agency has a number of [P2 programs] that can assist individuals and organizations to implement P2.
External links
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