business pollution prevention



What is Pollution Prevention?

The Basics

Pollution prevention is the practice of reducing contaminants at the source, rather than traditional end-of-pipe control methods. For example, a business is preventing pollution when it replaces a solvent-based cleaning process with soap and water, thus eliminating hazardous waste generated from the cleaning process. This is just one example of many Pollution prevention opportunities available to businesses. Of course, specific opportunities depend on the type of business.

The Benefits of Pollution prevention

When hazardous waste is reduced or eliminated altogether, waste management and compliance costs are reduced or eliminated. Businesses save money by reducing staff time spent on waste management and regulatory compliance, and by reducing expensive hazardous waste equipment and disposal costs. With these cost savings, businesses become more competitive and can benefit even more by promoting their responsible practices. Increasingly, environmental reputation is a factor many consumers consider when choosing where to shop.

Government agencies and taxpayers also save money through Pollution prevention. Resources spent on hazardous waste compliance and cleanup can be redirected to businesses assistance and education. Our communities also become safer with Pollution prevention, because less hazardous products and wastes mean less potential exposure from waste handling and spills.

Pollution prevention Resources

The Kitsap County Health District and the Washington State Department of Ecology both have pollution prevention programs that provide free assistance to businesses. Several industry and non-governmental organizations are also available to help. In addition, the Health District operates the EnviroStars Program, which recognizes and promotes businesses that use Pollution prevention. To learn more about Pollution prevention, find out what resources are available to you, or to get started reducing hazardous waste, email Niels Nicolaisen, Environmental Specialist or phone (360) 337-5604.