Controlling pollution

Why business should control pollution: to reduce health hazards; to reduce the risk of liability; to save costs (waste is often a sign of wasted materials); to build a better public image; and for other social benefits, such as clearer air and water for everyone.

Business should take the lead in protecting the environment, because it has the resources and know-how, and because it can stop pollution at its source: the factory where it is made. Often, just changing a process or using better materials can greatly reduce pollution or even end it.

Steps a firm can take:

• A definite commitment from top management.
• Making sure the commitment is shared by everyone in the firm.
• Clear policies for buying good-quality raw materials, using better technology and disposing of waste properly.
• Complying with the laws on pollution.
• Taking part in government programmes for managing hazardous substances, cleaning rivers and planting trees.
• Periodic assessment of how the pollution control programmes are working.
• Training its suppliers and dealers in ways to reduce pollution.

The government also acts: it has passed laws to protect wildlife, water, air, the environment and forests; set up a Department of Environment in 1980; and created boards to control pollution. Courts have ordered polluting units to clean up or even to move away from cities.