September 20, 2002—As an example of an effective business/government partnership, a pollution-prevention partnership in Michigan reports that it has completed another successful year. The Michigan Business Pollution Prevention Partnership’s (MBP3) annual report shows that the 137 members who had goals during 2001 recycled over 8,822 tons of cardboard, made 45 distinct material/process substitutions, incorporated selection criteria for choosing environmentally preferable products, and made considerable progress in their water and energy conservation programs.
The members selected multiple methods to achieve their environmental goals. Of those reporting, 90% used waste reduction techniques, 35% made material substitutions, 45% made energy and water conservation changes, 30% are reusing materials, and 75% recycled. Nearly 95% of the members reached the goals they set for themselves.
The report includes a summary of the topics presented at the latest MBP3 workshop, an overview of successful waste reduction programs established by partners, and examples of specific recycling and reuse options employed. This year’s report can be viewed in .pdf format at the Department of Environmental Quality’s MBP3 Web site.
