WASHINGTON — This year during Pollution Prevention Week, September 19-25, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency marks the 20th anniversary of the Pollution Prevention Act of 1990. The act laid the groundwork for reducing pollution at its source and protecting children and families from exposure to harmful pollutants, as well as significantly reducing the amount of contaminants released into the environment. EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson is urging the public to recommit to the goal of pollution prevention in their everyday lives.
"Protecting public health and the environment begins with pollution prevention. We’re taking proactive steps that minimize pollution at the source and keep environmental threats from reaching our communities," said Jackson. "The Pollution Prevention Act of 1990 gave our nation a strong start in this direction. Twenty years later, we must work with our government and industry partners to foster clean innovations and sustainable strategies that expand and enhance pollution prevention across the country."
EPA is focused on integrating pollution-prevention goals into all of its programs and has already achieved results in many agency programs:
EPA has also been working closely with states, local governments, international organizations, environmental groups and industry to identify pollution-prevention opportunities. One example is the Economy, Energy and Environment (E3) Program, which is helping manufacturers reduce costs and become more efficient, competitive and sustainable in a global market.
More information on Pollution Prevention Week and what you can do
Participate in Pollution Prevention Week webinars—Journey to Sustainability