ABSTRACT
Continuous scientific and technological advances have allowed human beings to extend and improve life conditions. But on the other hand, these advancements have brought some of the short and long-term negative effects – that these days – cannot be ignored. Awareness has grown that the quality of air, water, soil, and food affects human health and the environment. The causes of the various environmental diseases are numerous and include pollution generated by transport, agricultural activity, industrial processes, domestic effluents and waste management. It is important that a scientist takes into consideration that any substance used or generated can directly or indirectly influence health and the surrounding environment. Effective waste generation prevention is practically impossible due to the fact that no raw material can be used 100%. Also, the prevention principle can help to prevent release of hazardous and polluting substances and prevent accidents minimizing the risk and reducing or eliminating the exposure to hazardous products or reagents.
