AUGUSTA (AP) – An executive order aimed at encouraging Mainers to use fewer products that contain hazardous chemicals was to be signed Wednesday by Gov. John Baldacci.

Under the order, state government would set an example for the rest of the state by cutting back on purchases of toxic products and using fewer pesticides around state office buildings.

The order also seeks to educate the public more about safer alternatives to household products that contain hazardous chemicals. It creates a task force that would identify ways to expand research and development at the University of Maine into “green” chemistry utilizing nontoxic, biological-based materials.

State Environmental Protection Commissioner David Littell and environmental activists planned to join Baldacci at the signing in the State House.