The pollution prevention program began when SHWEC was formed in 1990 focusing on the elimination or reduction of pollution at the point of generation. Many current waste reduction technologies, safer materials, best management practices and other changes resulted as pollution prevention education and assistance took place throughout the 1990's and continues today.
Since it's inception in 1991, the UW-Extension Solid and Hazardous Waste Education Center has been promoting municipal solid waste source reduction as an effective solid waste management strategy. Source reduction, which is defined by the US EPA as "the design, manufacture, purchase, or use of materials (such as products and packaging) to reduce the amount or toxicity of trash generated." Source reduction helps reduce waste disposal and handling costs because it avoids the costs of recycling, municipal composting, landfilling, and combustion. It also conserves resources and reduces pollution. SHWEC's source reduction program is focused upon encouraging consumer to change wasteful behaviors and developing innovative municipal programs to prevent waste.