TUR Planner Course Session 1 Introduction to Toxics Use Reduction and the Toxics Use Reduction Act

Objectives After this module, you will be able to… Discuss the evolution and context for toxics use reduction (TUR) Understand the central role of planning in achieving TUR Differentiate between TUR and pollution control List the six TUR techniques, and discuss examples of how they can be implemented

What is TUR Toxics Use Reduction? Toxics Use Reduction Act Definition*: In-plant changes in production processes or raw materials that reduce, avoid, or eliminate the use of toxic or hazardous substances or generation of hazardous byproducts per unit of product, so as to reduce risks to the health of workers, consumers, or the environment, with out shifting risks between workers, consumers, or the environment. TUR shall be achieved through any of the six defined techniques. *310 CMR 50.10

Definition of TUR: Key Points In-plant changes Reduce, avoid, or eliminate the use of toxic or hazardous substances or generation of hazardous byproducts Per unit of product

Definition of TUR: Key Points (continued) Reduce overall risks to workers, consumers, and the environment Without shifting risks Through TUR techniques

P2 and TUR POLLUTION PREVENTION Source Reduction Energy Conservation Resource Conservation Cleaner Production Toxics Use Reduction

Forms of Pollution Control Treatment Waste Minimization Recycling Energy Recovery Waste Reduction POLLUTION CONTROL Treatment Waste Minimization Recycling Energy Recovery Waste Reduction POLLUTION CONTROL Different Forms of Pollution Control

Pollution Prevention Hierarchy Anticipatory 1. Prevention 4. Disposal3. Treatment 2. Recycling Reactionary 4. Prevention 1. Disposal2. Treatment 3. Recycling SHIFT

Context for TUR: Environmental Protection Evolution 2000s1970s1980s1990s Management systems, stewardship Control, treatment and cleanup Crisis management, liability, and toxics Pollution prevention, small business, voluntary initiatives TURA passed 1989 First TUR Planner course First TUR Plans written 1992 TUR goals achieved 2000

Goals of TUR 50% reduction in the generation of toxic by- products by 1997 through TUR Establish TUR as the preferred means of regulatory compliance Sustain and promote the competitive position of Massachusetts industry Promote reduction in the production of toxic and hazardous substances Enhance and coordinate state agency enforcement of environmental laws

Did We Achieve the Goals?

Incentives for TUR Identifies potential cost savings Provides a systematic materials tracking program TUR planning methods can provide a foundation for future EMS or ISO programs Identifies process or chemical inefficiencies

The Six TUR Techniques 1.Input Substitution 2.Product Reformulation 3.Production Unit Redesign/Modification 4.Production Unit Modernization 5.Improved Operations and Maintenance 6.Recycling which is integral to the process

1. Input Substitution Replacing a toxic or hazardous substance or raw material used in a production unit with a non-toxic or less toxic substance. Examples: –Substitute soy-based inks for petrochemical inks –Substitute vegetable-based fluids for oil-based cutting fluids –Substitute non-toxic pigments for toxic ones.

2. Product Reformulation Reformulating or redesigning end products to be nontoxic or less toxic upon use, release or disposal Examples: –Decrease the amount of solvent needed to manufacture paint by switching to a high-solids formulation –Introduce new product lines specifically designed to eliminate the use of toxic chemicals.

3. Production Unit Redesign or Modification Developing and using production units of a different design than those currently used. Examples: –Upgrade tool and equipment quality to reduce off- spec products –Install automatic thermostats or automatic flow controls –Install high-performance nozzles, brushes, and applicators to conserve coatings and reduce the number of reject products

4. Production Unit Modernization Upgrading or replacing existing production unit equipment and methods with equipment and methods of a more recent design. Examples: –Install countercurrent rinsing systems to reclaim process chemicals –Use air knives to blow solutions back into baths –Replace solvent-based paint strippers with mechanical processes

5. Improved Operations and Maintenance Improved housekeeping, system adjustments, product/process inspections, or production unit control equipment or methods Examples: –Institute employee training programs –Install splash guards and drip boards –Implement inventory control program to prevent expiration of chemicals

6. Recycling (Integral to the Process) Recycling, reuse, or extended use of toxics by using equipment or methods which are integral to the production unit, including, but not limited to filtration and other closed loop methods. Examples: –Capture and recycle cleaning solvents –Regeneration of acid instead of disposal of acid –Recycle and reuse spent rinse water –Distill and reuse solvent strippers

TUR Planning Process TUR Planners must translate the process into a workable plan Planning is cyclical

TUR Planning Process (cont.) Planning viewed as a continual improvement cycle