DEQ seeks applicants for recognition as environmentally friendly businesses

BOISE — Idaho businesses, industries, and organizations that incorporate pollution prevention into their daily operations are invited by the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) to apply for recognition as “Pollution Prevention Champions.” DEQ will recognize up to four recipients in observation of Pollution Prevention Week this fall.

Businesses, industries, and organizations that use any method or activity that prevents, eliminates, and/or minimizes the production of waste at its source, uses nontoxic or less toxic products, conserves energy or water, and/or reuses material rather than throwing it away are eligible to be recognized as Pollution Prevention Champions.

“Pollution prevention is one of the most important ways to protect the environment because it eliminates or reduces pollution before it ever enters the environment,” noted Ben Jarvis, DEQ’s Pollution Prevention Projects Coordinator.

“It can be as simple as changing a process, using different raw materials, modifying a product, or preventing leaks and spills,” he said.

Pollution Prevention Champions will have their accomplishments profiled on DEQ’s website.

To apply for or nominate a business, industry, or organization for this recognition, fill out an application form on DEQ’s website. Applications are due September 1, 2017. Documented results of pollution prevention activities must be included.

For more information, contact Ben Jarvis at DEQ’s State Office in Boise at (208) 373-0146 or email ben.jarvis@deq.idaho.gov.