Every MDE permitting and licensing program allows appeals of permit denials, although their appeals processes vary. The contact people listed for each program can provide information about how to appeal a permit denial. Maryland Department of the Environment's Web Site MDE has established a web site providing information and services. It is continually improved and updated and includes this guidebook, permit application forms, information on permit application status, and other useful information for permit applicants. Final Notes MDE hopes this manual is helpful to our permitting customers and to others interested in environmental programs.
Pollution prevention is an alternative to pollution control.
Pollution prevention, also called source reduction, means avoiding the creation of pollution in the first place. Facilities prevent pollution by using resources more efficiently, by substituting less-harmful substances for hazardous materials, and by other changes to their operations. Even small businesses and facilities can reap significant benefits from pollution prevention measures. After assessing the environmental impact and operational costs of using hexavalent chromium in their operations, the company decided to stop using chromium and substituted a phosphate bath. This change saved the company several thousand dollars per month in hazardous-waste disposal costs.