SEPs are environmentally beneficial projects that a violator agrees to undertake when settling an enforcement action. P2 SEPs generally require a violator to reduce waste generation beyond what is required by law and require the violator to implement more P2 projects than it would in the normal course of business. P2 SEPs generally include specific P2 projects, or a facility-wide audit to identify of pollution prevention opportunities. SEPs provide an additional environmental benefit to the more common compliance and deterrence benefits of standard enforcement. Ohio and many other state governments now offer a variety of P2 assistance options to industry.
Information is provided through telephone hot lines, fact sheets, newsletters, and on the internet .
Education is provided through seminars and courses. Research and financial assistance can also be made available. Ohio EPA offers a Pollution Prevention Loan Program to assist business in implementing P2 projects. Voluntary programs, such as Ohio Prevention First and Green Lights, are additional options. It's Everyone's Responsibility How much progress is made in pollution prevention will depend on the way we think, and how we go about our daily business.