Q.What steps can an enterprise take to protect the environment from the dangers of pollution?

An enterprise should: (i) secure a definite commitment by top management to a pollution-prevention work culture; (ii) ensure the commitment is shared throughout the enterprise; (iii) develop clear policies and programmes for good raw materials, superior technology and scientific waste treatment; (iv) comply with pollution-control laws; (v) participate in government programmes on hazardous substances, cleaning rivers, tree planting and checking deforestation; (vi) periodically assess control programmes for costs and benefits; and (vii) arrange educational workshops and training for suppliers, dealers and customer …

Why business should take the lead

• Protecting the environment is a collective responsibility, but business enterprises should take the lead in finding solutions. Businesses are leading creators of wealth, employment, trade and technology, command huge financial, physical and human resources, and have the know-how to tackle pollution with a preventive approach — controlling pollutants at source by modifying processes, redesigning equipment or substituting better materials.

Specific steps an enterprise can take

• (i) Top-management commitment: A definite commitment by top management to create, maintain and develop a work culture for environmental protection and pollution prevention.
• (ii) Shared commitment: Ensuring this commitment is shared throughout the enterprise — across all divisions and by all employees.
• (iii) Clear policies and programmes: Developing clear-cut policies for purchasing good-quality raw materials, employing superior technology, using scientific techniques of waste disposal and treatment, and developing employee skills for pollution control.
• (iv) Complying with laws: Complying with the laws and regulations enacted by the government for the prevention of pollution.
• (v) Participating in government programmes: Taking part in government programmes on managing hazardous substances, cleaning up polluted rivers, planting trees, and checking deforestation.
• (vi) Periodic assessment: Periodically assessing pollution-control programmes in terms of their costs and benefits, to keep improving environmental protection. …