An Integrated Facility Identification System: Key to Effective Management of Environmental Information at the Environmental Protection Agency

The EPA and other state agencies require good data to identify environmental problems, set goals, select tools to remedy problems, measure their progress, analyze the effectiveness of programs and adjust management strategies accordingly.

Similarly, business managers, environmental groups and researchers all need accurate data to understand facility-specific impacts so they can take appropriate actions to improve the environment and public health. To advance the development and dissemination of more accurate, timely and consistent information, the Academy agreed to facilitate a meeting of the Environmental Information Consortium (EIC), a group interested in improving the collection and management of environmental data, which includes representatives of regulated businesses, environmental and other public interest groups, state environmental agencies, academia and consulting organizations.