P ollution prevention takes innumerable forms. In the manufacturing context, pollution prevention involves forethought about the ultimate disposal of a product at its conception and design stages. Firms can prevent pollution by reformulation, changes in processes, and equipment redesign. Farmers can prevent pollution by sound tillage practices and handling of pesticides and fertilizers.
Universities conduct research on promising preventive technologies.
Individuals hold a key to environmental progress by their purchases of consumer products and by their lifestyles. Businesses large and small have significant opportunities to reduce or prevent pollution at the source through cost-effective changes in production, operation, and raw materials use. Such changes offer industry substantial savings in raw materials, pollution control, and liability costs while protecting the environment and reducing risks to worker health and safety. In addition, businesses gain recognition for pollution prevention practices. By recognizing the outstanding achievements of these organizations in pollution prevention, it is the hope of Illinois that others will be encouraged to do their share in preventing pollution at the source.