Sources of Information

Sources of Information

 32% of industry respondents to an earlier EPA survey

identified the lack of technical information as a major
factor delaying or preventing the implementation of a
waste minimization.
 One of EPA’S positive contributions has been the
development of a national Pollution Prevention
Information Clearinghouse (PPIC) and Pollution
Prevention Exchange System (PIES) to facilitate the
exchange of information needed to promote pollution
prevention through efficient information transfer.
Prevention Information Clearinghouse
(PPIC)

The PPIC is operated by the EPA’s Office of Research

and Development and the Office of Pollution
Prevention. The clearing house is comprised of four
elements :
1. Repository, including a hard copy reference
library and collection center and an on-line
information retrieval and ordering system.

2. Pollution Prevention Exchange System (PIES),a

computerized conduit to databases and
document ordering, accessible via modem and
personal computer
3. PPIC uses the RCRA/Superfund and Small Business Ombudsman
Hotline as well as a PPIC technical assistance line to answer
pollution-prevention questions, access information in the PPIC,
and assist in the document ordering and searches.

To access PPIC by telephone, call :

RCRA/Superfund Hotline, (800)242-9346
Small Business Ombudsman Hotline,(800)368-5888
PPIC Technical Assistance,(703)821-4800
4. PPIC compiles and disseminates information packets and bulletins,
and initiates networking efforts with other national and
international organizations.
 Pollution Prevention News- contains information including EPA
news, technologies, program updates, and case studies.

 The EPA’s Risk Reduction Engineering Laboratory and the Center for
Environmental Research Information has published several
guidance documents developed in cooperation with California
Department of Health Services.
 American Institute of Chemical Engineers has established the
Center for Waste Reduction (CWRT),a program based on targeted
research ,technology transfer, and enhanced education
Industry Programs
 Industry Programs

 Many corporations emphasize the attractiveness of combining

environmental protection efforts to achieve savings in human
resources, time, material, and product and environmental quality.
Several large companies claim significant benefits to the enterprise
as well as to the environment. These includes :
Company Name Type of Environmental Program
3M Pollution Prevention Paysprogram
involves efforts to prevent air pollution, cost-effective approaches.
water pollution, and solid-waste
generation. Reductions are compared environmental culture
with environmental releases of first
project year.
Dow Chemical Waste Reduction Always
Pays program provides financial
support for internal projects that
reduce waste or emissions. It
recognizes successful projects and
individuals involved in those projects.
Chevron Save money and Reduce Toxics
(SMART)
emphasizes on industrial source
reduction, toxic chemical use
substitution ,and recycling for
hazardous and non hazardous solid
wastes.
General Dynamics Zero Discharge
Intended Benefits of Reported Factors in
Program Program Success
Develop technically sound, Strong commitment from top
management that
Enhance strong incorporate program
objectives.
throughout the company.
Stimulate a cultural shift in Because it is done on a
thinking of Dow employees project-by-project basis,
concerning waste reduction WRAP is simpler and
and emissions reduction. probably easier to emulate
Make real environmental than companywide
progress and reduce long- programs.
term costs.
Devise safer operating From 1987 to 1990,Chervon
procedures to reduce reduced hazardous waste
accidental releases by 60% and saved more
Ensure that pollution than $10 million in disposal
reductions in one area don’t costs.
transfer pollution to another.
Industry Programs

 Regarding other motivations, the public image aspect of

such activities is an obvious benefit. Many corporations,
regardless of size, publicize their self-initiated programs
to demonstrate their commitment to environmental
protection to customers, regulators, and the public. Such
information also can help to attract employees, increase
employee loyalty, and encourage employee
participation in environmental programs.
 Industry Programs

 Smaller companies can benefit by the assistance offered by these

larger corporations. It is clear that access to information is a major
importance when implementing efficient pollution prevention
programs. By adopting such programs, industry is affirming pollution
prevention’s application as a good business practice and not
simply a ”noble” effort.
References

 Perry’s Chemical Engineering Handbook 8th Edition p.22-23

 https://www.nap.edu/read/5506/chapter/4
 National Service Center for Environmental Publications(NSCEP)