P2 Business Basics: Material Substitution

Is there a better product for the job?

One way to prevent pollution is to substitute non-hazardous or less hazardous materials for those you might presently use. Much research has been done into these substitutions by EPA, industry leaders and partners in pollution prevention. You can find resources for substituting materials for specific process in the Business Sector section of this website. Following are some general guidelines.

Consider a substitution for hazardous materials or those that may become regulated soon.

Make sure using a substitute material will not void any equipment warranties
Use substitutes that have been proven to work in similar situations
Contact other businesses to learn how the substitute materials worked for them
Compare MSDS for the substitute with the MSDS for the material you are currently using
Verify that a substitute may solve one problem but create another

Substitute detergent-based or water-based cleaners for solvent-based cleaners.

Check Materials Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for possible health and safety concerns
The Solvent Alternatives Guide provides P2 information on solvent and process alternatives for parts cleaning and degreasing

Try citric or terpene cleaners for cleaning, degreasing, or parts washing.

Terpenes are oils isolated from plants through heating or steam distillation
They are less toxic and more biodegradable than most solvents

Use solvents that have lower vapor pressures and therefore don't evaporate as readily.

Check the Materials Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for this information
Lower air emissions mean a healthier work environment

Use multi-purpose materials, when appropriate.

Using a few basic products decreases confusion about choosing the right product for the job
Reduces the number of rarely used products, which are the materials often stored beyond useful shelf life

Use non-hazardous janitorial supplies.

See EPA's "Cleaning Equipment, Accessories, Janitorial Supplies, Cleaning Chemicals and Sorbents" (pdf) for listings of suppliers.

Reduces employee health risks
Creates no hazardous waste