Pollution Prevention Unit

The Pollution Prevention Unit coordinates pollution prevention efforts throughout New York State. Our vision and mission are far reaching: we protect air, water, and land; and we work with all types and sizes of businesses, facilities, and groups.

Pollution Prevention Unit's Vision:
"Reduce or eliminate the use of toxic substances and the generation of pollutants at the source."

Pollution Prevention Unit's Mission:
"Promote multimedia pollution prevention in order to protect New York State's environment and enhance the health and welfare of its citizens."

Pollution Prevention Unit's Goals:

Technical Assistance and Outreach: conduct comprehensive and timely outreach to small businesses, local governments, state agencies, and the public
Management and Measurement: develop, implement, and measure programs that promote pollution prevention, comprehensive environmental management systems, and incentive programs
Targeted / Prioritized Pollution Prevention Planning: incorporate risk-based planning into pollution prevention programs
Information Management and Audit: ensure that facility and state agency information is tracked, monitored, and analyzed
Program Development and Support: ensure an effective and coordinated system for program development, implementation, and management

What is Pollution Prevention?

Pollution prevention is the best way to protect the environment. It focuses on ways to avoid creating the pollution at its source, before it needs to be cleaned up. This can be done by using less hazardous materials in manufacturing, being careful to prevent spills, maintaining equipment in top condition, and through a number of cost-effective techniques.

Any comments or questions?

1. Search DEC's website for an answer to your question

2. Visit DEC's contact page for email addresses for air, water, waste management, wildlife, enforcement, and general DEC information inquiries.

3. For questions about our pollution prevention program, or to find out how you can apply pollution prevention, contact us at:
625 Broadway, Albany, NY 12233-1750
518-402-9469 (phone); 518-402-9168 (fax)