Which of the following is a benefit of pollution prevention?

Pollution prevention is a proactive approach focused on reducing or eliminating waste and contaminants at the source rather than managing them after they are created. One of the key benefits of pollution prevention is the reduction in regulatory compliance burdens. By minimizing waste production and emissions through improved processes and practices, businesses can often operate under less stringent regulatory requirements. This results from demonstrating a commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable practices, which can lead to simpler compliance procedures and potentially lower costs associated with reporting and managing waste.

In contrast, the other options do not align with the principles of pollution prevention. Increased operating costs and decreased efficiency would be counterproductive, as pollution prevention strategies typically aim to enhance both profitability and operational effectiveness by reducing waste and optimizing resource use. Similarly, higher levels of waste generation directly contradict the goals of pollution prevention, which seeks to minimize waste, not increase it. Hence, the correct answer highlights a positive outcome of implementing pollution prevention measures.