Publication Summary

Despite the efforts of business, government, and citizens, the total volume of toxic substances entering the environment and our bodies is increasing. This paper discusses myths and misconceptions about waste, toxic chemicals, and the relationships between environmental health and economic vitality.

The purpose of this document is to highlight some of the misconceptions about waste and toxic substances, and to present clear reasons why the Beyond Waste vision of eliminating most wastes and toxic substances will contribute to economic, social and environmental vitality. The five myths include:

1. If a product is on the shelf – it is safe 2. Existing regulations provide adequate protection from toxic chemicals 3. Landfills solve the waste problem 4. Today′s recycling solves the waste problem, and 5. Eliminating waste and toxins will be bad for the economy

Rising population, combined with a rise in disposable products, places increased demands on our communities. A tremendous amount of hazardous substances enter the environment through unregulated sources, and many of the everyday products we use contain toxic components. The cumulative effect from these diffuse sources represents an increasing threat to human health and the environment.

This document provides information that demonstrates our current systems of handling waste and toxic substances may not be the most efficient or appropriate solutions. Many businesses recognize that waste is lost profit, and have realized significant savings by making fundamental changes in their operational systems. It will take a team effort from government, industry and the public to make change happen, but it is a challenge we can′t afford to pass up.