








See Also
What
Can Businesses Do
to Prevent Pollution?
What
Can Local Governments and Communities Do to Prevent Pollution?
Pollution
Prevention Champions
Contact DEQ
Regional
Office
Waste Management and Remediation Managers
State
Office
Pollution Prevention Program
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Environmental Assistance:
What Can Citizens Do to Prevent
Pollution?
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| Air Quality |
| Vehicle
exhaust is a major source of air pollution in Idaho. Residents
can help prevent air pollution through good driving habits.
The best way to reduce emissions is by driving less. Carpool,
combine trips, ride the bus, or bike/walk to destinations
when possible. Maintain vehicles to increase efficiency. Get
regular tune-ups, properly inflate tires, and drive at moderate
speeds. Consider fuel efficiency, alternative fuel capability,
or even hybrid vehicles when purchasing new vehicles.
Small
engines are also a source of air pollution. Lawn mowers and
trimmers, especially pre-1997 models, can emit as much pollution
in one hour as driving a car up to 50 miles. Electric-powered
mowers, push mowers, or hand-powered yard tools such as rakes
and brooms all help reduce emissions.
Reduce
outdoor burning when possible. Smoke from open burning pollutes
the air with fine particles and gases that may cause health
problems or reduce visibility. Additionally, many items such
as garbage or other manufactured materials may not be burned
or burning may be prohibited under certain conditions.
Many
common household chemicals emit volatile organic compounds
which contribute to ground-level ozone production. Use cleaners,
paints, pesticides and fertilizers carefully to reduce emissions
through evaporation. |
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| Water Quality |
| Residents
can take measures to protect both the quantity and quality
of Idaho's water. Water conservation at home can include simple
measures such as repairing leaks, running full loads in the
dishwasher and washing machine, or installing low flush toilets.
Outdoors, water the lawn sparingly or use landscaping that
requires less water.
Protect
the quality of your drinking water. Many storm drains lead
directly to rivers without filtration - ensure harmful chemicals
are not being flushed into the storm drain or sewer system.
Limit use of fertilizers and pesticides to prevent over-application.
Excess fertilizers and pesticides may run off or leach through
the soil to water supplies. |
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| Waste Minimization |
| Pollution
prevention efforts can help residents reduce the amount and
types of waste generated. When purchasing new products, consider
if they are truly necessary. Look for products with less packaging.
After initial use, consider if a waste could be reused for
another application. If waste must be generated, reduce the
amount going to the landfill. Consider composting food or
yard waste, or look for recycling opportunities. Consult DEQ's
online Recycling Directory for information on recycling
facilities by area and products accepted.
Residents
also produce household hazardous wastes. These include unused
cleaning supplies, fertilizers, or paint. When purchasing
these types of products, look for less toxic varieties, such
as citrus cleaners, and only buy what you will use. If you
have extra, consider sharing with neighbors or coworkers.
If you must dispose of it, look for facilities in your area
that accept household hazardous waste. Check DEQ's
online Recycling Directory for suggestions. |
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| For More Information |
| Air
Quality Brochures, Fact Sheets, and More for Citizens and Communities
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| Water
Quality Brochures, Fact Sheets, and More for Citizens and Communities
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| Waste
Management Brochures, Fact Sheets, and More for Citizens and
Communities |
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