D.2.4.      The use of harmful substances, including pesticides, paints, swimming pool disinfectants, and cleaning materials, is minimized; substituted, when available, by innocuous products; and all chemical use is properly managed.

_____________________________

Chemicals and other non-organic materials slip into the environment during application and storage via evaporation, run-off, spills, leaks and over application. Such practice lead to air, soil and water pollution, adversely affecting the local environment, harming  flora and fauna, contaminating water supplies for local communities and causing serious health problems.  The misuse and improper handling of potentially toxic substances creates additional threats to the environment and human health.  Many “natural” substitutes exist which are not only less impact on the environment and human health, but are often cheaper.  Technology has also developed various alternatives.  Where no alternatives are possible, the proper storage, handling and use of chemicals will reduce potential impacts.   

_______________________________

Potential Indicators 

 •    Hazardous materials in use (kg)

•    Percentage of biodegradable and low phosphate chemicals used to
     total chemicals

•    Pesticides in use (kg, kg/hectare)

•    Decreased usage of harmful substances by volume

•    Percentage of harmful substances substituted by alternatives

•    Changes in water quality