The pollution prevention program began when SHWEC was formed in 1990 focusing on the elimination or reduction of pollution at the point of generation. Many current waste reduction technologies, safer materials, best management practices and other changes resulted as pollution prevention education and assistance took place throughout the 1990's and continues today.

The pollution prevention program is extremely valuable in providing information, education and direct technical assistance to a wide variety of industries who have worked to reverse the trend of industry pollution while also saving money. Some of those activities were captured in case studies.

SHWEC has played a key role, working with other state partners to provide workshops, seminars and several hundred individual pollution prevention opportunity assessments, which has resulted in reduced air emissions, less hazardous waste and waste water discharges, reducing that impact on our environment. Many of the companies that SHWEC assisted were recognized by various awards from the state and others.

The Center continues to provide information, education and direct technical assistance focused on the elimination or reduction of pollution at the point of generation. Contact any SHWEC staff for assistance.