Pollution prevention is any practice that reduces, eliminates or prevents pollution at its source. Reducing the amount of pollution produced means less waste to control, dispose of or treat. Pollution prevention is a key to protecting public health and the environment.
Mercury is a naturally occurring metal and a liquid chemical element at room temperature. It is also one of the primary pollutants of concern in Indiana's rivers and streams. It cannot be artificially produced and it does not break down into other substances. Because of its chemical properties, it conducts electricity and is especially useful in a variety of electronic devices and in industrial applications. Mercury is also highly toxic to humans and wildlife and so must be handled and disposed of properly.
