§ 260. Legislative findings and objectives; waste prevention. The legislature hereby finds and declares that there are ever increasing opportunities to promote economic development and enhance the environment through waste prevention. Whether through better environmental management practices that prevent or reduce the generation of wastes, the adoption of innovative environmental technologies, the substitution of less toxic materials or substances, or through recycling and reuse of secondary materials, waste prevention can often improve competitiveness and environmental quality.

By partnering with New York companies to promote waste prevention, New York residents will be investing in a healthy environment and a healthy economy. Strategic planning and investment in sustainable development will spark business growth and competitiveness and create jobs, while protecting and enhancing the quality of the environment.