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Technical Assistance: Businesses
Services
TAPs (Technical Assistance Programs) provide businesses with cutting edge environmental management assistance and help identify and implement measures that reduce or eliminate pollution at its source. Whether your organization is attracted by the environmental benefits, cost savings, or enhanced public image, TAPs offer a variety of services, most of which are free, nonregulatory, and confidential.
Texas Says No to More Pollution
Facilities that received assistance from Texas' Permanent Pollution Prevention Program and Site Assessment Visit Programs are saving more than $30 million annually. By implementing P2 strategies, the companies also reduced hazardous waste generation by 34,000 tons, nonhazardous waste generation by 52,600 tons, and VOC emissions by 179,000 pounds; and conserved more than 300 million gallons of water and 11 million kilowatt hours of electricity.
TAPs provide the following services:
Voluntary Onsite Audits. Most TAPs offer free customized technical
assistance and will visit your facility to help you review your current
operating practices. TAPs will help you identify opportunities for waste
and emission reduction and/or elimination from your manufacturing or business
processes and improve your compliance with environmental regulations.
Most visits examine pollution sources, quantities, and costs from emissions,
hazardous and nonhazardous waste, and wastewater discharge.
Information Clearinghouses. Many TAPs operate clearinghouses of
P2 documents and information and provide access to the general public,
regulatory staff, industry, and business. Some also provide technical
information including case studies, reports, and fact sheets.
Planning Assistance. About half the states require industrial facilities to develop and implement comprehensive P2 plans. TAPs in these states, including New Jersey, California, and Washington, help assess industrial operations, as they relate to waste and pollution generation, and help incorporate P2 principles.
Hotlines. Many TAPs have hotlines available to industry and the general public where callers receive quick answers to waste management and P2 questions.
Research. Many TAPs also conduct research and collaborative projects with industry that support the development of P2 technologies and management strategies.
Workshops, Seminars, and Training. TAPs often hold a variety of
educational and outreach events for local businesses and residents. TAPs
have developed industry and process-specific training materials in a variety
of sectors, from auto repair, to dry cleaning, to metal fabrication. These
training opportunities help businesses learn about the latest P2 technologies
and processes and identify P2 and cost saving opportunities in their facilities.
Contact Information
The Where You Live page provides contact information for regional EPA offices and state agencies. National and state organizations that offer pollution prevention technical assistance can be found on Related Links.