By preventing pollution in the first place, we protect human health, strengthen our economic well-being, and preserve the environment. Pollution prevention involves changing processes, using process inputs more efficiently, or substituting less harmful substances for hazardous ones. States have chosen to institutionalize pollution prevention in a variety of ways.
Some states pass laws that declare pollution prevention a good idea and encourage voluntary efforts.
Other mechanisms vary from the funding of voluntary programs and technical assistance programs to mandatory planning and reporting requirements. This publication examines those states who have laws or pending legislation that address pollution prevention strategies. How to Use This Compendium States can use this publication to compare their state's legislation to that of others, or to consider innovative legislative initiatives. Industry may use this publication as a guide to legal requirements. However, it should be noted that this compendium only contains legislative summaries - complete legislation is not included.