Material input (product) substitutions means using less toxic, "environmentally friendly" substitutes in compounds and devises. 

• Selecting Alternative Mercury Free Products
• Alternatives for Mercury in Buildings

This P2 practice is most suitable to mercury and best exemplified by substituting digital, alcohol, or gallinstan (mercury-free) thermometers in place of mercury filled thermometers. For more information about the dangers of using mercury thermometers:

• EPA: Mercury Fever Thermometers

• Health Care Without Harm

• Sustainable Hospitals Project

In instances where no viable substitute exists, such as in fluorescent lamps, employing best management practices would be the preferred approach.

• Waste Reduction and Proper Waste Management of Products Containing Mercury

  Health Care Products Known to Contain Mercury & Alternatives (Word 6.0 document)
• Consumer Products Known to Contain Mercury & Alternatives (Word 6.0 document)
• Mercury Product Alternatives; Sustainable Hospitals