TABLE OF CONTENTS Pollution is a by-product of civilization, because it is thermodynamically impossible to eliminate all wastes in a process involving transformation of matter and energy required to sustain a civilized society. In the name of civilization and progress, however, humans have a tendency to rationalize defecation in their own nests.
Philosophically, pollution is misplacement of a substance in a concentration or amount that is directly or indirectly hazardous to health or life in any form. Technically, only when such misplacement violates the local or federal laws, is it called pollution. In the latter connotation, misplacement of substances without violating laws does not necessarily mean a healthy atmosphere.
Pollution prevention should not be left as an "end-of-pipe" problem. It should be addressed at the stage of conceptual design. Careful consideration should be given to the waste treatment cost which is affected by the choice of solvents, starting raw materials, operating parameters and their mode of control, and work practices including detection, monitoring, reduction, and reporting. Most pollution can be prevented, or at least minimized with the best available control technology considered in the beginning of the conceptual design with support from management guided by enlightened self -interest.
Pollution should be prevented or reduced at the source wherever possible.
Pollution that cannot be prevented should be recycled in an environmentally safe manner whenever feasible.
Pollution that cannot be prevented or recycled should be treated in an environmentally safe manner whenever feasible.
Disposal or other release into...
