About TUR Plans and Planning

TUR planning involves process changes that work, and usually save money.

What is Toxics Use Reduction (TUR) Planning?

TUR Planning is a fundamental form of pollution prevention that focuses on industrial activities to promote safer and cleaner production while enhancing economic viability.

The planning requirement was one of the novel innovations in pollution reduction pioneered by the landmark Massachusetts Toxics Use Reduction Act (TURA) when it became law in 1990. Whereas traditional environmental regulations focused on controlling emissions and releases of pollutants to the environment, TURA promoted preventive strategies - reducing the use of toxic chemicals and the generation of toxic waste before recycling, treatment, or disposal.

Over 1000 professionals from industry, government and academia have been trained and certified as Toxics Use Reduction Planners.  

Benefits of Planning

Through TUR Planning, companies in Massachusetts have reduced their toxic waste by 40% since 1989. At the same time, companies are finding the rewards in savings and in the marketplace from making progress in TUR. Companies:

• Gain detailed information about production process efficiency
• Learn where money is spent on non-product outputs 
• Identify total chemical costs and liabilities
• Confidently consider technology innovation or new technology adoption