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Publisher: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): Beaches 
 Consumer information about topics related to environmental aspects of beaches. Topics include water quality and pollution (sewer overflows, farm animal feeding, trash), health and safety, beach advisories and closings, and more. Includes details about EPA projects related to beach protection. http://www.epa.gov/beaches/ Topics: Pollution, Water Last updated Jun 1, 2005 Clean Air Interstate Rule
In March 2005, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued "the Clean Air Interstate Rule (CAIR), a rule that will achieve the largest reduction in air pollution in more than a decade." This site features background information and updates about the rule, which mostly affects states in the eastern half the United States through mandates to reduce sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions. Includes the text of the rule and related charts. http://www.epa.gov/cair/ Topics: Pollution Last updated Mar 22, 2005 8-Hour Ground-level Ozone Designations
In April 2004, "the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) named new areas that will be required to reduce emissions of ozone-causing pollution." This site features background information about ozone and the EPA's efforts to reduce ozone emissions, a map of areas designated by the EPA as violating air quality standards, designations for all states and tribal areas, and related information. http://www.epa.gov/ozonedesignations/ Topics: Pollutants & Toxic Substances Last updated Apr 20, 2004 Fact Sheet: Flood Cleanup: Avoiding Indoor Air Quality Problems
"Failure to remove contaminated materials and to reduce moisture and humidity [from a flooded building] can present serious long-term health risks. Standing water and wet materials are a breeding ground for microorganisms, such as viruses, bacteria, and mold. ... This fact sheet discusses problems caused by microbial growth ... and the steps you can take to lessen these effects." Includes links to related information. From the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.epa.gov/iaq/pubs/flood.html Topics: Hurricane Katrina, Pollutants & Toxic Substances, Pollution, Water, Weather Last updated Sep 5, 2005 Coalbed Methane Outreach Program (CMOP)
Information about this U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) program "whose goal is to reduce methane emissions from coal mining activities." Includes background information about coalbed methane ("a valuable fuel source, but ... also a greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change"), new technologies, EPA efforts in the United States and other countries, and related resources. http://www.epa.gov/cmop/ Topics: Geology, Industries, Pollutants & Toxic Substances, Technology Last updated Dec 29, 2004 Toxics Release Inventory (TRI) Program
This is an "EPA [Environmental Protection Agency] database that contains information on toxic chemical releases and other waste management activities reported annually by certain covered industry groups as well as federal facilities." Searchable by zip code, and users can create release, waste water, and waste transport reports by geographical location, chemical or chemical group released, industry, and year of data. http://www.epa.gov/tri/ Topics: Pollutants & Toxic Substances Last updated Mar 11, 2003 Airline Water Supplies
Information related to the September 2004 release of data about the safety of drinking water supplies on passenger aircraft. Features test results, a FAQ, a fact sheet, and updates on aircraft water testing and disinfection. From the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.epa.gov/safewater/airlinewater/questions.html Topics: Beverages, Health, Health, Pollution, Transportation, Travel, Water Last updated Oct 12, 2009 Emergency Disinfection of Drinking Water
Information about methods for emergency disinfection of drinking water, including boiling and chemical treatment (using chlorine bleach or household iodine). Site also notes that murky or colored water should be filtered "through clean cloths or allow[ed] it to settle" before disinfecting. "Water prepared for disinfection should be stored only in clean, tightly covered, containers, not subject to corrosion." Available in English and Spanish. From the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.epa.gov/safewater/faq/emerg.html Topics: Beverages, Hurricane Katrina, Pollutants & Toxic Substances, Pollution, Water Last updated Sep 8, 2005 Mississippi River Basin & Gulf of Mexico Hypoxia
This website focuses on the Mississippi River Basin (which "includes numerous subbasins and watersheds in addition to those of the main stem of the Mississippi River") and the Gulf of Mexico, and the environmental effects to the area due to hypoxia, "an absence of oxygen reaching living tissues." Includes resources on the subbasins of the Mississippi River Basin, maps, and updates on federal government actions in the area. From the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.epa.gov/msbasin/ Topics: Geography, Hurricane Katrina, Pollution, Water Last updated Sep 2, 2005 Naled for Mosquito Control
Fact sheet from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on naled, "an organophosphate (OP) insecticide that ... is used primarily for controlling adult mosquitoes." Discusses risks to human and environmental health from naled, which was used as an aerial spray in New Orleans in September 2005 following Hurricane Katrina. http://www.epa.gov/pesticides/health/mosquitoes/naled4mosquitoes.htm Topics: Gardening, Home & Housing, Home & Housing, Hurricane Katrina, Insects & Arachnids Last updated Aug 29, 2006 Product Stewardship: Packaging
Initiatives, legislation, and other resources on sustainable packaging and packaging waste reduction. Includes publications and websites about programs (in the U.S. and other countries) involving product design, recycling and reuse, and toxics reduction. From the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.epa.gov/epawaste/partnerships/stewardship/ Topics: Environment, Industries Last updated Dec 6, 2008 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): Agriculture Street Landfill
"This web page provides background information and details about the Agriculture Street Landfill Superfund Project in New Orleans" that began in 1998. Includes updates on water sampling and other EPA activities related to flood cleanup after Hurricane Katrina of this Superfund site that housed "debris and waste resulting from cleanup efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Betsy" and that was found to have "elevated levels of lead, arsenic and carcinogenic polyaromatic hydrocarbons (cPAHs)." http://www.epa.gov/earth1r6/6sf/sfsites/default.htm Topics: Hurricane Katrina, Pollutants & Toxic Substances, U.S. History By Place, Weather Last updated Sep 20, 2005 Wastes: Back-to-School
List of tips for reducing waste at school. Includes ideas for school supplies, lunches, transportation, and decorations for special events. From the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.epa.gov/osw/wycd/funfacts/school3.htm Topics: Education, Environment, Technology Last updated Sep 7, 2008 Marine Debris Abatement
Publications and other resources on marine debris (or litter), which is "defined as any man-made, solid material that enters our waterways directly (e.g., by dumping) or indirectly (e.g., washed out to sea via rivers, streams, storm drains, etc.)." The site contains information about legislation, effects of marine debris (such as harm to marine animals), an educational guide, letters and drawings from children about marine litter, and related material. From the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.epa.gov/owow/oceans/debris/ Topics: Pollutants & Toxic Substances, Water Last updated Jan 3, 2006 Beach Standards, Monitoring, & Notification
This site provides the results of an annual federal survey of the incidence of disease-causing bacteria at coastal and Great Lakes beaches. "Find Your Beach" leads to an interactive map where you can check the water quality conditions of your local beach, the pollutants that are being monitored, and whether advisories or closures have been issued. From the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.epa.gov/waterscience/beaches/ Topics: Pollution, Water Last updated Nov 10, 2006 Water Security
"Improving the security of our nation's drinking water and wastewater infrastructures has become a top priority since the events of 9/11. ... This Web site provides resources for water utilities, state and local governments, public health officials, emergency responders and planners," and others. Features vulnerability assessments, emergency-planning tools, research, legislation, and related resources. From the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://cfpub.epa.gov/safewater/watersecurity/ Topics: Beverages, Terrorism, War and Peace: Resources on Iraq, Water Last updated May 19, 2009 Environmental Explorers' Club
Environmental education for elementary school students, emphasizing games and activities about conservation, recycling, global warming, Superfund sites, and more. Also find resources for teachers. From the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.epa.gov/kids/ Topics: Education, Environment, K-12 Education Last updated Aug 13, 2003 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): EnviroMapper StoreFront
This tool "allows you to generate maps of your geographic area that contain environmental information stored in EPA's Envirofacts Warehouse. The type of environmental information includes: Superfund sites, drinking water, toxic and air releases, hazardous waste, and water discharge permits. You can also view this information in context by adding map features to your map," such as churches, schools, and hospitals. Includes a FAQ. http://www.epa.gov/enviro/html/em/ Topics: Environment, Pollutants & Toxic Substances, Scientific Themes, U.S. Maps Last updated Dec 20, 2005 Window to My Environment (WME)
WME is a database "designed to improve access to useful community-based environmental information." Find regulated facilities, monitoring sites, maps, Superfund sites, air and water quality, fish advisories, and much more. Search by zip code, city, or state, or browse U.S. map. Provided by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) "in partnership with federal, state and local government and other organizations." http://www.epa.gov/enviro/wme/ Topics: Environment, Scientific Themes, U.S. Maps Last updated Apr 29, 2005 Proposed Endangerment and Cause or Contribute Findings for Greenhouse Gases Under the Clean Air Act
Documents concerning an April 2009 Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) proposal with findings that "the current and projected concentrations of the mix of six key greenhouse gases ... threaten the public health and welfare of current and future generations" and that motor vehicle emissions "contribute to the atmospheric concentrations of these key greenhouse gases and hence to the threat of climate change." Contains the full proposal, background, and commenting and hearing details. From the EPA. http://epa.gov/climatechange/endangerment.html Topics: Environment Last updated Apr 20, 2009 Energy Star
Energy Star is "a government-backed program helping businesses and individuals protect the environment through superior energy efficiency." The site provides information on building remodeling and repairing, a list of products that meet "energy efficiency guidelines set by the US Environmental Protection Agency and the US Department of Energy," and more. Searchable. http://www.energystar.gov/ Topics: Architecture, Energy, Home & Housing Last updated Aug 25, 2004 Aquatic Biodiversity
"Aquatic biodiversity encompasses freshwater ecosystems, including lakes, ponds, and reservoirs, rivers and streams, groundwater, and wetlands. ... It also consists of marine ecosystems, including oceans, estuaries, salt marshes, seagrass beds, coral reefs, kelp beds, and mangrove forests." The site features introductory information about these water-based ecosystems, and addresses special topics such as threats and conservation. Also includes a glossary and links to related sites. From the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.epa.gov/bioiweb1/aquatic/ Topics: Animals, Biology, Environment, Water Last updated Aug 3, 2005 EPA Response to September 11, 2001
News, documents, contact information, and more from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) about the environmental clean-up following the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. Most of the information is oriented toward Lower Manhattan, but there are some resources related to the Pentagon. Includes updates about the dust clean-up and information about outdoor and indoor monitoring activities for air, water, river sediments, and drinking water. http://www.epa.gov/wtc/ Topics: September 11 & Beyond Last updated Aug 12, 2005 Radiation Protection: Plutonium
Questions and answers about plutonium, "a radioactive metal with Atomic Number 94. Plutonium is considered a man-made element, although scientists have found trace amounts of naturally occurring plutonium produced under highly unusual geologic circumstances." Discusses plutonium exposure, health effects, and protection from plutonium. From the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.epa.gov/radiation/radionuclides/plutonium.html Topics: Pollutants & Toxic Substances Last updated Jan 24, 2009 A Citizen's Guide to Radon: The Guide to Protecting Yourself and Your Family From Radon
Guidelines for home testing for radon, "a cancer-causing, radioactive gas ... [that] is estimated to cause many thousands of deaths each year." Learn how radon enters your home, how to test your home for radon, and how to lower the radon level of a house. Includes statistics on lung cancer risk due to radon exposure. Includes links to related publications. From the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.epa.gov/radon/pubs/citguide.html Topics: Cancer, Pollutants & Toxic Substances Last updated Oct 19, 2004 Underground Storage Tanks
"About 705,000 underground storage tank systems (USTs) nationwide store petroleum or hazardous substances that can harm the environment and human health if the USTs release their stored contents." This U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) site provides an overview of USTs, related statutes and regulations, and details of the EPA's UST programs. Browse UST site information by state. The site is also searchable and browsable by subject. http://www.epa.gov/swerust1/ Topics: Oil & Gas, Pollutants & Toxic Substances Last updated Nov 28, 2004 Surf Your Watershed
Locate watersheds (the places drinking water comes from), including those on tribal lands. The "Index of Watershed Indicators" contains information on the quality of local water resources. The searchable "Water Atlas" provides information important for watershed protection and restoration; also browse by geography, theme, key word, source/organization, and age of source data. Find interactive mapping tools to locate watersheds down to the zip-code level. Use "Adopt Your Watershed" to learn how to join one the effort to protect and restore local watersheds. http://www.epa.gov/surf/ Topics: Beverages, Maps, Scientific Themes, Water Last updated Oct 13, 2003 Larvicides for Mosquito Control
Fact sheet on insecticides and pesticides used to kill mosquito larvae for control of mosquito populations in areas with standing water. The larvicides, used in some areas to control the spread of West Nile virus, may "eliminate the need for ground or aerial application of pesticides to kill adult mosquitoes." Discusses the effects on human health and the environment for microbial larvicides, methoprene, temephos, monomolecular films, and oils. From the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.epa.gov/pesticides/health/mosquitoes/larvicides4mosquitoes.htm Topics: Environment, Gardening, Home & Housing, Infectious Diseases, Insects & Arachnids Last updated Apr 17, 2007 Heat Island Effect
This site addresses the concept of heat island effect, which "describes urban and suburban temperatures that are 2 to 10°F (1 to 6°C) hotter than nearby rural areas." Discusses impacts (including air pollution, air conditioning costs, and heat-related illnesses), ideas for reducing temperatures and energy use (such as green roofs and cool paving materials, and shade trees), and related research projects. Includes a FAQ and glossary. From the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.epa.gov/heatislands/ Topics: Energy, Pollution, Weather Last updated May 30, 2006 Hudson River PCBs Superfund Site
Information about the cleanup of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in the Hudson River. In October 2005 the Justice Department and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reached an agreement with the General Electric Company requiring it to begin the dredging of the Hudson River in 2007. This site contains background information, maps, photos, a FAQ (with information about PCBs, contamination of the Hudson River, and the dewatering facility that will hold dredged sediment), and related material. From the EPA. http://www.epa.gov/hudson/ Topics: Pollutants & Toxic Substances, Water Last updated Oct 11, 2005 Indoor Air: Mold
Documents about mold, covering topics such as mold and moisture, mold cleanup, asthma and mold, and mold in homes, schools, and commercial buildings. Includes links to information about floods, indoor air quality, and related topics. Some material available in Spanish. From the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.epa.gov/mold/ Topics: Environment, Pollutants & Toxic Substances, Public Health & Safety Last updated Nov 6, 2005 EPA's Position on the Energy Crisis
This position paper from 1974 followed the Arab oil embargo of 1973. "This paper is intended to discuss the causes of the difficult energy situation we face, the effect of the nation's environmental program on energy supplies, the action EPA has taken to deal with the crisis, and EPA's stance on pertinent energy/environmental issues." Includes discussions of supply and demand issues and the impact of environmental regulations. From the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.epa.gov/history/topics/energy/01.htm Topics: Energy, Oil & Gas Last updated Dec 6, 2005 Sources of Indoor Air Pollution: Carbon Monoxide (CO)
Fact sheet on the dangers of carbon monoxide (CO), which is "an odorless, colorless and toxic gas" that "can kill you before you are aware it is in your home." Topics include sources of CO (such as leaking chimneys and furnaces, and backdrafting from wood stoves and fireplaces), health effects, and guidelines for reducing exposure to CO. From the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.epa.gov/iaq/co.html Topics: Pollutants & Toxic Substances, Pollution Last updated Jan 10, 2006 Common Wastes & Materials: Scrap Tires
Collection of resources about waste management and recycling of scrap tires in the U.S. Features background information, statistics, a FAQ, information about scrap tire markets (such as tire-derived fuel, civil engineering applications, and rubberized asphalt), laws and statutes, regional resources, a page on tire fires, publications, and related links. From the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.epa.gov/osw/conserve/materials/tires/index.htm Topics: Automobiles, Environment Last updated Nov 1, 2008 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): Asbestos
Collection of fact sheets and other resources about asbestos, a "naturally occurring mineral fiber, once widely used in building materials for its thermal insulating properties and fire resistance." Topics include health effects, asbestos in the home (identifying it and determining whether it needs to be removed), asbestos in schools, vermiculite (a mineral that includes asbestos and is found in products such as attic insulation), acronyms, and laws and regulations. http://www.epa.gov/asbestos/ Topics: Diseases & Conditions, Pollutants & Toxic Substances Last updated Jan 24, 2006 Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA) and Flourinated Telomers
Background about the potential risks to human health and to the environment of PFOA, "a synthetic (man-made) chemical" used to make "fluoropolymers, substances with special properties that have thousands of important manufacturing and industrial applications" such as in the production of non-stick cookware. Includes a draft risk assessment on PFOA from January 2005 and material about the global PFOA stewardship program announced in January 2006. From the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.epa.gov/oppt/pfoa/ Topics: Environment, Pollutants & Toxic Substances, Public Health & Safety Last updated Feb 6, 2006 The National-Scale Air Toxics Assessment (NATA)
Reports from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's "ongoing comprehensive evaluation of air toxics in the U.S." Contains the results of an assessment of 1999 air toxics emissions (released in 2006), and an earlier report on 1996 toxic air pollutants. The 1999 assessment includes a summary of the findings, a FAQ on air toxics, a list of the over 170 air pollutants in the report, a glossary, data tables, maps, and tools to analyze the data. http://www.epa.gov/ttn/atw/natamain/ Topics: Pollution Last updated Mar 28, 2006 Clean Air Markets: Environmental Issues: Acid Rain
Introductory material about acid rain, "a broad term used to describe several ways that acids fall out of the atmosphere. A more precise term is acid deposition." Includes a discussion of how acid rain is caused by pollutants in the environment, how acid rain is measured, and what can be done to reduce acid rain. Also includes experiments for students. In English and Spanish. From the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.epa.gov/acidrain/ Topics: Environment, Pollutants & Toxic Substances Last updated Apr 25, 2006 EPA: Green Buildings
Links to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) material on green building, "the practice of creating healthier and more resource-efficient models of construction, renovation, operation, maintenance, and demolition." Includes resources for building types (such as homes, schools, and offices), descriptions of the EPA's green buildings, and links to pages about specific green building topics such as energy efficiency and building materials. From the EPA. http://www.epa.gov/greenbuilding/ Topics: Architecture Last updated May 2, 2006 Radtown USA
This site uses an animated town to provide basic information about radiation in the environment. Wireless networks, stadium light shows, and medical X-rays are some common sources noted in the presentation. Each location is linked to a fact sheet explaining the types of radiation, personal steps for protection, and the roles that various government agencies play in protection and control. The site also includes a glossary and related links. From the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. http://www.epa.gov/radtown/ Topics: Environment, Science Last updated May 24, 2006 California Tribal Lands and Reservations
This color-coded map shows tribal-owned and federal land in California. Designations include Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA), Bureau of Land Management (BLM), Bureau of Reclamation (BOR), Forest Service (FS), Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), National Park Service (NPS), and Department of Defense (DOD). Part of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 9 Air Program. http://www.epa.gov/region09/air/maps/ca_tribe.html Topics: Native Americans Last updated Mar 29, 2007 Consumer Factsheet On: Thallium
Questions and answers related to the presence of thallium, "a metal found in natural deposits as ores containing other elements," in the drinking water supply. Discusses safe levels of thallium according to the Safe Drinking Water Act, health and environmental effects of thallium, and related topics. From the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.epa.gov/safewater/contaminants/dw_contamfs/thallium.html Topics: Public Health & Safety, Water Last updated Dec 20, 2006 Federal Tax Credits for Energy Efficiency
This site outlines the federal income tax credits available for home improvements (such as insulation and replacement windows, efficient cars, solar energy systems, and fuel cells). Updated with details about credits available for 2009 tax years and beyond. Includes links to relevant tax forms and notices. From the Energy Star program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy. http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=tax_credits.tx_index Topics: Energy, Tax Filing Season Last updated Oct 8, 2009 Personal Emissions Calculator
"Use this online calculator to obtain an estimate of your personal greenhouse gas emissions or your family's greenhouse gas emissions. Then move on to the next section of the calculator to explore actions you and/or your family can take to lower your emissions while reducing your energy and waste disposal costs." Areas covered include transportation, home energy use, and waste and recycling. From the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.epa.gov/climatechange/emissions/ind_calculator.html Topics: Environment Last updated Apr 16, 2007 Asthma and Indoor Environments
This website contains fact sheets and other material about environmental triggers of asthma, such as secondhand smoke, dust mites, and mold. Also contains planning materials for Asthma Awareness Month (May) and publications (a few in Spanish) on managing asthma in home and school environments. From the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.epa.gov/asthma/ Topics: Diseases & Conditions Last updated Apr 23, 2007 On-road Vehicles and Engines: Motorcycles
"This Web page provides information on controlling emissions from highway motorcycles." Includes documents pertaining to regulations and certification and compliance guidance for highway motorcycles, and links to related material about transportation and air quality. From the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.epa.gov/otaq/roadbike.htm Topics: Automobiles, Transportation Last updated May 2, 2007 EPA History: Noise
Historical material about Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) coordination of "all federal noise control activities through its Office of Noise Abatement and Control. ... In 1981, the Administration at that time concluded that noise issues were best handled at the State or local government level," and the program was phased out. Includes archived documents and guidance on locating agencies that now handle noise regulation and control activities. From the EPA. http://www.epa.gov/history/topics/noise/ Topics: Pollution Last updated Jun 11, 2007 Clean Burning Wood Stoves and Fireplaces
"This site offers information to help you choose an EPA certified stove ... or another cleaner burning hearth appliance (e.g., gas or pellet stove) and use it efficiently and safely." Discusses stove and fireplace types, safe installation and wood-burning practices, impacts of wood smoke on human health and the environment, cleaner burning fireplace options, and related topics. Also includes a guide for implementing a wood stove change-out campaign. From the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.epa.gov/woodstoves/ Topics: Home & Housing, Pollution Last updated Sep 14, 2007 Plug Into eCycling: Recycle Your Cell Phone
Background and details about this U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) initiative, launched in early 2008, to encourage cell phone recycling. "[D]espite the large number of programs, most consumers still do not know where or how they can recycle their cell phones. Consequently, less than 20 percent of unwanted cell phones are recycled each year." Includes a fact sheet and podcast, places to drop off and mail in cell phones, and related material. From the EPA. http://www.epa.gov/epawaste/partnerships/plugin/cellphone/ Topics: Environment, Technology Last updated Dec 6, 2008 Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products (PPCPs)
Background about "Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products as Pollutants (PPCPs) [which] refers, in general, to any product used by individuals for personal health or cosmetic reasons or used by agribusiness to enhance growth or health of livestock." Covers PPCP sources, where PPCPs are found ("any water body influenced by raw or treated sewage, including rivers, streams, ground water, coastal marine environments, and many drinking water sources"), and related topics. From the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. http://www.epa.gov/ppcp/ Topics: Pollution, Water Last updated Mar 10, 2008 Six Common Air Pollutants
Information about the six common air pollutants (ozone, particulate matter, carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and lead) for which the Clean Air Act requires the EPA to set national ambient air quality standards. Includes material about "sources of the pollutant, why the pollutant is of concern, health and environmental effects, efforts underway to help reduce the pollutant, and other helpful resources." From the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.epa.gov/air/urbanair/ Topics: Pollution Last updated Mar 27, 2008 Lead in Paint, Dust, and Soil
Information for consumers and professionals about lead, "a toxic metal that was used for many years in products found in and around our homes. Lead may cause a range of health effects, from behavioral problems and learning disabilities, to seizures and death." Provides fact sheets, rules and regulations (such as requirements released March 2008 to protect children from lead-based paint), and related material. Some publications available in Spanish. From the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.epa.gov/lead/ Topics: Pollutants & Toxic Substances Last updated Apr 1, 2008 Mercury: Spills, Disposal and Site Cleanup
Information about how to cleanup mercury spills in the home and at hazardous waste sites. Includes discussions of what to do if compact fluorescent lights (CFLs) and mercury thermometers break, how to store and transport mercury, and background about hazardous waste site mercury cleanup. Includes links to related material. From the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.epa.gov/mercury/spills/ Topics: Pollutants & Toxic Substances Last updated Apr 9, 2008 WaterSense
WaterSense, a partnership program sponsored by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), "seeks to protect the future of our nation's water supply by promoting water efficiency and enhancing the market for water-efficient products, programs, and practices." The site provides information about specifications for products (such as bathroom sink faucets, high-efficiency toilets, landscape irrigation services, showerheads, and urinals), and background about water efficiency. Some material available in Spanish. Includes a link to a website for children. http://www.epa.gov/watersense/ Topics: Water Last updated Jun 3, 2008 Aging Initiative
This website provides information about U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) "efforts to protect the environmental health of older persons." Provides fact sheets (many of which are available in several languages and easy-to-read and large-print editions) on topics such as diabetes and environmental hazards, and planning for excessive heat. Also lists events, funding opportunities, news and announcements, and other related material. From the EPA. http://www.epa.gov/aging/ Topics: Senior Health Last updated Sep 2, 2008 Water Recycling and Reuse: The Environmental Benefits
Fact sheet about water recycling, which is "reusing treated wastewater for beneficial purposes such as agricultural and landscape irrigation, industrial processes, toilet flushing, and replenishing a ground water basin." Discusses benefits to people and the environment, the future of water recycling, and suggested water recycling treatment and uses. Includes related links. From the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.epa.gov/region09/water/recycling/ Topics: Water Last updated Aug 5, 2008 Energy Star Qualified New Homes
This site explains the Energy Star qualified program for new homes, which are "at least 15% more energy efficient than homes built to the 2004 International Residential Code (IRC), and include additional energy-saving features that typically make them 20-30% more efficient than standard homes." Discusses features such as insulation, windows, and heating and cooling. Includes a look-up for locating builders of Energy Star qualified homes by state. From Energy Star. http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=new_homes.hm_index Topics: Architecture, Energy Last updated Jul 30, 2008 Air Trends
This website compiles air quality trends in "the levels of these pollutants in the air and how much of each pollutant (or the pollutants that form them) is emitted from various pollution sources." Find national and local data on carbon monoxide, ground-level ozone, lead, nitrogen dioxide, particulate matter, and sulfur dioxide. Also includes special studies and regulatory statistics. From the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.epa.gov/airtrends/ Topics: Pollution Last updated Aug 6, 2008 Pack the 3R's While on Holiday Travel
This page suggests ways to reduce, reuse, and recycle during the holiday season, such as using electronic airline ticketing and hotel checkout systems, asking about alternative fuel when renting a car, and letting a hotel know it is not necessary to change sheets and towels every day. Also includes general holiday waste reduction tips, particularly for cooking and entertaining. From the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.epa.gov/osw/inforesources/news/2007news/12-pack.htm Topics: Christmas, Environment Last updated Nov 4, 2008 Mid-Atlantic Mountaintop Mining
Background about mountaintop coal mining, "a surface mining practice involving the ... removal of mountaintops to expose coal seams, and disposing of the associated mining overburden in adjacent valleys -- 'valley fills.'" Covers method, regulations, and environmental impact. Includes links to related material from government and other agencies. From the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.epa.gov/region3/mtntop/index.htm Topics: Technology Last updated Dec 9, 2008 EPA Fugitives
"Defendants charged with environmental crimes or violations of the U.S. Federal Criminal Code sometimes flee the court's jurisdiction. ... When these circumstances occur, the defendants become fugitives from justice. ... [These] wanted posters identify fugitives sought by the EPA's Criminal Investigation Division. Each one provides a brief case summary and instructions on how to report information related to their identity and/or current location." From the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.epa.gov/fugitives/ Topics: Crime Last updated Jan 22, 2009 Wastes - Partnerships: Coal Combustion Products Partnership (C²P²)
Compilation of publications from this collaborative effort to "promote the beneficial use of Coal Combustion Products (CCPs) and the environmental benefits that result from their use." Also includes links to fact sheets about CCPs ("the materials produced primarily from the combustion of coal in coal-fired power plants"), state reviews, and regulatory resources. From the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.epa.gov/epawaste/partnerships/c2p2/index.htm Topics: Energy Last updated Jan 12, 2009 EPA Information Related to the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (Recovery Act)
Background about U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) programs funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (Recovery Act or ARRA), which cover water quality and wastewater infrastructure, brownfields, diesel emissions reduction, Superfund hazardous waste cleanup, and leaking underground storage tanks. Plans, reports, and announcements will be posted to this website as they become available. From the EPA. http://www.epa.gov/recovery/ Topics: Federal (U.S.) Government Last updated Mar 3, 2009 Greenversations
This blog is written by U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) "employees (and occasional guests) about the things they bring to their jobs every day." Browse entries by date or by the many subjects listed, such as air, cleanup, and energy. A few entries are in Spanish. Includes links to other EPA and government blogs. http://blog.epa.gov/blog/ Topics: Blogs & Podcasts by Subject Last updated Apr 13, 2009 Cars and Light Trucks
Compilation of publications providing "information about controlling emissions from passenger cars and light trucks. This includes consumer information, vehicle standards and regulations, certification and compliance, fuel economy, and test data." Some of the topics covered include green racing, federal and California exhaust and evaporative emission standards, and imported vehicles and engines. From the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.epa.gov/OMS/ld-hwy.htm Topics: Automobiles, Pollutants & Toxic Substances, Pollution Last updated May 26, 2009 Underground Injection Control Program: Hydraulic Fracturing
Background about hydraulic fracturing, "the injection of fluid under pressure to facilitate the production of oil and natural gas. This page explains the process of hydraulic fracturing, how hydraulic fracturing is regulated, and [U.S. Environmental Protection Agency] EPA's national study on hydraulic fracturing of coalbed methane." Includes a link to the detailed study, which assesses potential contamination of underground sources of drinking water (USDWs). From the EPA. http://www.epa.gov/ogwdw/uic/wells_hydrofrac.html Topics: Oil & Gas Last updated Jun 11, 2009 National Lead Free Wheel Weight Initiative (NLFWWI)
This initiative "encourages the transition from the use of lead for wheel weights to lead-free alternatives. Wheel weights are clipped to the rims of every automobile wheel in the United States in order to balance the tires. These weights often come loose and fall off," ending up in waterways or landfills. Provides quick facts and reasons for transitioning to lead-free wheel weights (such as reducing toxic lead exposure). From the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.epa.gov/waste/hazard/wastemin/nlfwwi.htm Topics: Automobiles, Pollutants & Toxic Substances Last updated Jun 15, 2009 |
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