What It Is: ACES supports the compliance and enforcement activities that exist primarily within the Illinois Bureaus of Air, Water, and Land, the Division of Legal Counsel, and the Office of Chemical Safety. It's a comprehensive system that tracks how well environmental cleanup contractors are performing on large government projects across multiple sites.
What It Means: ACES provides oversight and quality control for environmental contractors working on federal and state cleanup projects, ensuring taxpayer money is spent effectively and cleanup goals are met.
Purpose: To evaluate contractor performance, track project progress, monitor costs, and ensure compliance with cleanup standards across multiple sites within a geographic area.
History: Developed to address the need for systematic evaluation of contractors handling multiple environmental cleanup sites, particularly after the expansion of Superfund and state cleanup programs.
Types of Listings Found: Contractor performance ratings and scores, Project milestone completion dates, Cost overrun reports, Compliance violation notices, Progress reports on cleanup activities, Quality assurance test results
EXAMPLE: A regional cleanup contractor hired to remediate 15 abandoned gas stations in Illinois. The ACES database shows: "Midwest Environmental Services - Contract #IL-2024-15: 8 sites completed, 3 sites behind schedule by 60 days, $2.3 million cost overrun on Site #7 due to unexpected underground tank discovery, overall performance rating: 78/100."
What It Is: ACRES stores information reported by EPA Brownfields grant recipients on brownfields properties assessed or cleaned up with grant funding as well as information on Targeted Brownfields Assessments performed by EPA Regions.
What It Means: This is the central repository for tracking contaminated properties being transformed from polluted sites into productive community assets.
Purpose: To track brownfield cleanup progress, manage grant funding, and document successful redevelopment of contaminated properties.
History: Created in 2000 as part of EPA's Brownfields Program expansion to better track the thousands of properties being assessed and cleaned up with federal assistance.
Types of Listings Found: Property assessment reports, Contamination levels and types, Cleanup progress percentages, Grant funding amounts, Redevelopment plans, Community benefit metrics
EXAMPLE: "Former Smith Auto Parts, 123 Main Street, Cleveland, CA - Phase II assessment completed showing petroleum contamination in soil (2,500 ppm), lead paint on structures. $500,000 EPA grant awarded. Cleanup 65% complete. Future use: affordable housing for 40 families. Expected completion: March 2025."
What It Is: A comprehensive air quality data storage system that maintains historical and current air pollution measurements from monitoring stations nationwide.
What It Means: AIR serves as the foundational database for understanding air quality trends and patterns across the United States over multiple decades.
Purpose: To store, organize, and provide access to air quality data for regulatory decisions, health advisories, and scientific research.
History: Established in the 1970s following the Clean Air Act to create a centralized repository for air quality data.
Types of Listings Found: Hourly pollutant concentrations, Air quality index values, Monitoring station locations, Historical trend data, Exceedance reports
EXAMPLE: "Atlanta Downtown Monitor #GA-121-0032 - July 15, 2024: Ozone 0.085 ppm (exceeds standard), PM2.5 28 μg/m³, NO2 45 ppb, Temperature 95°F. Air Quality Index: 105 (Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups). Historical note: 3rd exceedance this month."
What It Is: The Air Facility System (AFS) contains compliance and permit data for stationary sources of air pollution regulated by the EPA, state, and local air pollution agencies.
What It Means: This tracks every major air pollution source's permits, emissions, and compliance status.
Purpose: To manage air permits and track compliance with air quality regulations for industrial facilities.
History: Developed in the 1980s to modernize air quality management and integrate with the broader AIRS system.
Types of Listings Found: Facility air permits, Emission limits, Stack test results, Violation notices, Enforcement actions, Annual emissions reports
EXAMPLE: "Acme Steel Mill, Facility ID #42-003-00145 - Title V Permit #95-TV-001: Permitted for 100 tons NOx annually. Q3 2024 stack test showed 115 tons projected annual rate. Notice of Violation issued September 1, 2024. Fine: $50,000. Required to install selective catalytic reduction by January 2025."
What It Is: AQS contains ambient air pollution data collected by EPA, State, Local, and Tribal air pollution control agencies from thousands of monitoring stations.
What It Means: This provides real-time and historical air quality data from monitors across the country.
Purpose: To track ambient air quality, identify pollution trends, and determine compliance with national air quality standards.
History: Established as part of the original AIRS system in the 1970s and continuously modernized.
Types of Listings Found: Real-time pollutant readings, Daily air quality indices, Seasonal patterns, Health advisory triggers, Trend analyses
EXAMPLE: "Los Angeles School Monitor #06-037-4001, March 15, 2024, 8:00 AM: Carbon monoxide 4.2 ppm (rush hour peak), Ozone 0.045 ppm, PM10 55 μg/m³. School athletic advisory: outdoor activities restricted 11 AM - 3 PM due to predicted ozone increase."
What It Is: AZURITE is the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) database that is used for environmental enforcement and compliance reporting.
What It Means: Arizona's comprehensive system for tracking utility company environmental compliance.
Purpose: To monitor and report utility emissions, water quality, and environmental compliance specific to Arizona's utilities.
History: Developed in the early 2000s to consolidate Arizona's utility environmental reporting.
Types of Listings Found: Power plant emissions data, Water utility discharge reports, Compliance certifications, Inspection results, Permit applications
EXAMPLE: "Phoenix Municipal Water - Facility #AZ-WAT-0234: Q2 2024 drinking water report - Chlorine residual 0.8-1.2 mg/L (compliant), Zero E. coli detections in 450 samples. Tucson Electric Power - Unit 3: Natural gas consumption 45,000 MCF, NOx emissions 12 tons (under 15-ton permit limit)."
What It Is: Environmental monitoring database for Native American schools under Bureau of Indian Affairs jurisdiction.
What It Means: Tracks environmental hazards and safety issues at federally-operated Native American educational facilities.
Purpose: To ensure environmental safety and compliance at BIA schools, protecting Native American students and staff.
History: Established following discoveries of environmental hazards at multiple Indian schools in the 1990s.
Types of Listings Found: Asbestos surveys, Lead paint assessments, Drinking water quality tests, Mold inspections, Remediation projects
EXAMPLE: "Sherman Indian High School, Riverside, CA - 2024 Assessment: Asbestos identified in Building C dormitory ceiling tiles (friable condition). Remediation priority: HIGH. $2.3 million allocated for removal. Lead paint stable in gymnasium, monitoring only. Project start: Summer 2024 when students absent."
What It Is: All generators and treatment, storage, and disposal (TSD) facilities who handle hazardous waste are required to report to the EPA Administrator at least once every two years.
What It Means: A comprehensive snapshot of hazardous waste generation and management across the nation every two years.
Purpose: To track hazardous waste from generation through disposal, ensuring proper handling and identifying trends.
History: Required since 1980 under RCRA to monitor the nation's hazardous waste activities.
Types of Listings Found: Waste generation quantities, Waste codes and descriptions, Treatment methods, Disposal destinations, Recycling amounts
EXAMPLE: "Johnson Chemical Corp, EPA ID #PAD987654321, 2023 BR: Generated 500 tons corrosive waste (D002), 300 tons ignitable waste (D001). Shipped 450 tons to Clean Harbors facility for incineration, 150 tons to Safety-Kleen for fuel blending, 200 tons treated on-site via neutralization."
What It Is: Environmental cleanup tracking system for closed or realigned military installations.
What It Means: Manages the complex environmental remediation required before closed military bases can be transferred to civilian use.
Purpose: To track contamination assessment and cleanup at closing military facilities.
History: Created in 1988 with the first BRAC round to manage environmental issues at closing bases.
Types of Listings Found: Contamination assessments, Unexploded ordnance surveys, Groundwater plume maps, Cleanup progress reports, Property transfer records
EXAMPLE: "Fort Ord, California - 28,000 acres. Contamination: unexploded ordnance on 8,000 acres of former firing ranges, TCE groundwater plume affecting 300 acres. Progress: 65% of ranges cleared, 12 groundwater extraction wells operating. Parcels 1-5 transferred to California State University, Parcel 6 pending clearance."
What It Is: California's public portal providing comprehensive environmental conditions data statewide.
What It Means: A one-stop shop for California residents to access environmental information about their communities.
Purpose: To provide transparent public access to California's environmental data.
History: Launched in the 2010s as part of California's environmental transparency initiatives.
Types of Listings Found: Air quality readings, Water quality reports, Pesticide use data, Toxic release information, Cleanup site locations
EXAMPLE: "Sacramento River Mile 58.5 - January 2024 monitoring: E. coli 235 CFU/100mL after storm (exceeds recreational standard of 200). Agricultural fields Yolo County: 1,250 lbs chlorpyrifos applied within 1 mile of Jefferson Elementary School, notification provided per regulations."
What It Is: Manages cap-and-trade programs where companies buy and sell pollution allowances.
What It Means: The financial tracking system for emissions trading programs that use market mechanisms to reduce pollution.
Purpose: To track emissions allowances, trades, and compliance with cap-and-trade programs.
History: Developed in 1995 to support the Acid Rain Program's SO2 trading system.
Types of Listings Found: Allowance holdings, Trade transactions, Emissions reports, Compliance status, Allowance prices
EXAMPLE: "PowerGen Inc. - 2024 SO2 Allowances: Allocated 5,000 tons, Purchased 2,000 tons from CleanPower LLC at $450/ton, Used 6,800 tons, Banked 200 tons for 2025. NOx Budget: Exceeded by 50 tons, must purchase credits by March 31 or face penalties."
What It Is: A system that connects information about the same facility across different environmental databases.
What It Means: Solves the problem of facilities having different names or IDs in different databases.
Purpose: To ensure accurate tracking of facilities across all EPA programs.
History: Created in the late 1990s to address data integration challenges.
Types of Listings Found: Facility name variations, Cross-database ID mappings, Address standardizations, Corporate ownership links
EXAMPLE: "Facility Match: 'Smith Manufacturing' (Air Permits), 'Smith MFG Corp' (Water Permits), 'J. Smith & Sons Manufacturing' (Waste Reports) all identified as same facility: 456 Industrial Drive, Canton, CA. Master ID: CA0000456789. 14 regulatory programs linked."
What It Is: Electronic portal where facilities submit required emissions reports to EPA.
What It Means: The modern electronic replacement for paper reporting of emissions data.
Purpose: To streamline and standardize emissions reporting from regulated facilities.
History: Launched in 2012 to modernize EPA's data collection systems.
Types of Listings Found: Quarterly emissions reports, Annual inventories, Continuous monitoring data, Compliance certifications
EXAMPLE: "Metro Power Station - Q1 2024 CEDRI Submission: CO2 450,000 tons, SO2 125 tons, NOx 89 tons, Mercury 12 lbs. All parameters within permit limits. Continuous emissions monitoring system availability: 99.2%. Submitted electronically March 28, 2024, validated April 5, 2024."
What It Is: CEDS is the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality's (DEQ) electronic data system for maintaining data on sources of pollutants in all media.
What It Means: Virginia's unified system tracking all environmental data across air, water, and land.
Purpose: To provide integrated environmental management for Virginia facilities.
History: Developed to consolidate Virginia's various environmental databases.
Types of Listings Found: Multi-media permits, Inspection records, Violation histories, Cleanup status
EXAMPLE: "Ajax Refinery, Richmond, VA - CEDS Profile: Air Title V Permit (12 emission points), NPDES water permit (3 outfalls), RCRA hazardous waste generator (Large Quantity), 2 underground storage tanks. Last inspection: February 2024, 2 minor violations corrected."
What It Is: Database tracking chemicals manufactured, imported, or sold in the United States.
What It Means: EPA's inventory of commercial chemicals and their safety status.
Purpose: To track which chemicals are in use and identify those requiring safety review.
History: Expanded significantly after TSCA reform in 2016.
Types of Listings Found: Chemical identities, Production volumes, Use categories, Safety review status, Regulatory restrictions
EXAMPLE: "Chemical XYZ (CAS 123-45-6) - Flame retardant used in electronics plastics. 2023 production: 10 million pounds. Under review for endocrine disruption concerns. Proposed restriction: banned in children's products, decision expected Q3 2024."
What It Is: California's master registry assigning unique identifiers to all regulated facilities.
What It Means: Every regulated business in California gets a single ID number used across all programs.
Purpose: To eliminate confusion from facilities having different IDs in different programs.
History: Created to support California's integrated environmental data management.
Types of Listings Found: Facility ID numbers, Business names, Location data, Program enrollments
EXAMPLE: "Bob's Auto Body Shop, San Diego - CNFRS ID #CA0012345. Linked programs: Air Quality (spray booth permit), Hazardous Waste (paint waste generator), Stormwater (industrial discharge). All permits and reports use this single ID number."
What It Is: System that standardizes data definitions across EPA databases.
What It Means: Ensures "nitrogen oxide" means the same thing whether listed as "NOx" or "Nitrogen Oxides."
Purpose: To prevent data confusion and ensure accurate information sharing.
History: Developed as EPA recognized data standardization challenges in the 1990s.
Types of Listings Found: Standard definitions, Data formats, Naming conventions, Unit conversions
EXAMPLE: "Standard Definition - 'NOx': Includes NO and NO2, reported as NO2 equivalent, measured in tons/year for annual reports, lbs/hour for continuous monitoring. Acceptable synonyms: Nitrogen oxides, Oxides of nitrogen. CAS Registry: 11104-93-1."
What It Is: Where large facilities report their greenhouse gas emissions annually.
What It Means: The system tracking America's largest sources of climate-changing gases.
Purpose: To monitor greenhouse gas emissions from major sources for climate policy.
History: Created in 2009 as part of EPA's greenhouse gas reporting rule.
Types of Listings Found: CO2 emissions, Methane releases, Other GHG data, Calculation methods, Facility benchmarks
EXAMPLE: "City Airport - 2023 GHG Report via E-GGRT: 25,000 metric tons CO2e total. Sources: 23,000 MT from jet fuel combustion, 1,500 MT from ground support equipment, 500 MT from terminal heating. 5% increase from 2022 due to increased flights."
What It Is: Tracks responsibility and progress for environmental cleanup sites.
What It Means: Identifies who's responsible for cleaning up contamination and monitors their progress.
Purpose: To ensure responsible parties fulfill cleanup obligations.
History: Developed to manage complex multi-party cleanup sites.
Types of Listings Found: Responsible party identifications, Cleanup agreements, Progress milestones, Cost allocations
EXAMPLE: "Former Tri-State Gas Station - Shell Oil (60% responsibility as former operator), Current owner Jim's Properties (30% responsibility), State Highway Dept (10% for road salt contamination). Cleanup 70% complete, $2.3M spent of $3.2M estimated. Shell behind on Q3 payment."
What It Is: eGRID is a comprehensive source of data on the environmental characteristics of almost all electric power generated in the United States.
What It Means: Shows the environmental impact of electricity generation at every power plant.
Purpose: To inform electricity consumers and policymakers about power generation impacts.
History: First released in 1996, updated every two years with power plant data.
Types of Listings Found: Power plant emissions, Generation capacity, Fuel types, Emission rates, Regional grid data
EXAMPLE: "Riverside Solar Farm - 0 emissions, 100 MW capacity, powers 10,000 homes. Coal Plant X - 2.1 lbs CO2/kWh, 500 MW capacity, 40% of county's power, scheduled for retirement 2028 and replacement with natural gas combined cycle."
What It Is: Annual survey collecting detailed data about all U.S. power plants.
What It Means: Comprehensive inventory of America's electricity generation infrastructure.
Purpose: To track power plant capabilities, planned changes, and technology deployments.
History: Conducted annually since 1985 by the Energy Information Administration.
Types of Listings Found: Generator specifications, Planned additions/retirements, Technology types, Capacity factors, Owner information
EXAMPLE: "Plains Energy Station - 2024 Form 860: Adding 100 MW battery storage system (operational Q2 2025), Retiring coal Unit #3 (250 MW) December 2024, Installing 300 MW natural gas turbine (operational Q1 2025). Net capacity change: +150 MW."
What It Is: Comprehensive database of all air pollution sources in a geographic area.
What It Means: Complete picture of what's polluting the air in any given area.
Purpose: To support air quality planning and identify major pollution sources.
History: Developed to support State Implementation Plans under the Clean Air Act.
Types of Listings Found: Point source emissions, Mobile source estimates, Area source inventories, Biogenic emissions
EXAMPLE: "Houston Metropolitan Area 2023 EIS: Point sources (refineries/plants) 45,000 tons NOx, Mobile sources (vehicles) 65,000 tons NOx, Area sources (gas stations, dry cleaners) 8,000 tons NOx, Biogenic (vegetation) 12,000 tons VOCs. Total: 130,000 tons/year."
What It Is: Integrated system tracking both environmental permits and enforcement actions.
What It Means: One-stop view of a facility's permits and compliance history.
Purpose: To coordinate permit management with enforcement activities.
History: Developed to break down silos between permitting and enforcement programs.
Types of Listings Found: Active permits, Permit violations, Enforcement actions, Penalty assessments, Compliance schedules
EXAMPLE: "Paper Mill Inc - EPS Record: NPDES Permit expires 2025, Air Title V expires 2026. Violations: 3 water pH exceedances in 2023. Enforcement: Administrative Order issued, $10,000 penalty paid, required to install continuous pH monitoring by March 2024."
What It Is: System for federal agencies to report recycling and waste reduction efforts.
What It Means: Tracks how well federal facilities meet recycling and sustainability goals.
Purpose: To monitor federal compliance with waste reduction mandates.
History: Established to implement Executive Orders on federal sustainability.
Types of Listings Found: Recycling rates, Waste diversion metrics, Composting programs, Source reduction initiatives
EXAMPLE: "Veterans Hospital, Denver - 2023 FARR Report: Recycled 45% of total waste (target 50%), Diverted 200 tons from landfill, Composted 10 tons food waste, Reduced paper use 30% through digitization. Improvement needed in construction debris recycling."
What It Is: Master system ensuring facilities are properly identified across all EPA databases.
What It Means: Quality control system for facility identification data.
Purpose: To maintain accurate facility records across all environmental programs.
History: Created to address data quality issues identified in the 1990s.
Types of Listings Found: Verified facility data, Location coordinates, Data quality scores, Update histories
EXAMPLE: "Data Verification - Smith Industries: FDM confirmed coordinates 41.4993° N, 81.6944° W, verified mailing address differs from physical location, corrected SIC code from 3471 to 3479, linked 7 program IDs to single facility record."
What It Is: List of contaminated federal properties requiring cleanup under environmental laws.
What It Means: Public registry of federal facilities with significant contamination issues.
Purpose: To ensure federal facilities comply with environmental cleanup requirements.
History: Established under CERCLA to hold federal facilities accountable.
Types of Listings Found: Contaminated federal sites, Cleanup priorities, Contamination types, Remediation status
EXAMPLE: "NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory - Docket listing for perchlorate and TCE groundwater contamination from rocket testing. Plume extends 3 miles off-site. Interim pump-and-treat operating since 2018. Final remedy selection expected 2025. Estimated cleanup cost: $150 million."
What It Is: Public website providing environmental data for federal facilities.
What It Means: Transparency tool for communities near federal facilities.
Purpose: To provide public access to federal facility environmental information.
History: Created to increase transparency about federal facility environmental impacts.
Types of Listings Found: Monitoring data, Cleanup progress, Public meeting notices, Document repositories
EXAMPLE: "Oak Ridge National Laboratory - FFEP Portal: Latest groundwater monitoring shows mercury at 2.5 ppb (decreasing trend). Y-12 cleanup 78% complete. Next public meeting: April 15, 2024. 450 documents available including all remedial investigations since 1990."
What It Is: Master registry assigning unique ID numbers to every regulated facility.
What It Means: Like a Social Security number for environmental facilities.
Purpose: To provide unique identification for every regulated facility.
History: Created in 1990s to solve facility identification problems.
Types of Listings Found: Facility Registry IDs, Cross-program linkages, Corporate relationships, Historical IDs
EXAMPLE: "Acme Manufacturing - FRS ID #110000456789. This single ID links: EPA ID PAD981234567 (RCRA), Permit PA0001234 (NPDES), ORIS Code 1234 (Air), replacing 14 different IDs previously used across programs."
What It Is: Georgia's comprehensive environmental database for all state programs.
What It Means: One-stop data system for Georgia's environmental information.
Purpose: To integrate Georgia's environmental data across all media.
History: Developed in 2000s to modernize Georgia's environmental data management.
Types of Listings Found: Georgia facility permits, State inspection reports, Compliance status, Georgia-specific requirements
EXAMPLE: "Savannah Paper Mill - GEIMS Record: Air permit for 3 boilers and recovery furnace, Water permit for Savannah River discharge, Solid waste permit for sludge landfill. Last state inspection March 2024 - minor recordkeeping violation noted."
What It Is: Hawaii's environmental health tracking database.
What It Means: Monitors environmental conditions affecting public health in Hawaii.
Purpose: To track environmental health indicators specific to Hawaii's unique environment.
History: Created to address Hawaii's specific environmental health concerns.
Types of Listings Found: Beach water quality, Cesspool locations, Dengue fever vectors, Volcanic emissions data
EXAMPLE: "Waikiki Beach - June 2024: Enterococcus 35 CFU/100mL (below 130 standard), safe for swimming. Kailua Beach - 450 CFU/100mL after storm, advisory posted. Maui Landfill - methane monitors show 45% LEL at northern boundary, within permit limits."
What It Is: ICIS provides a database that, when complete, will contain enforcement and compliance information across most of EPA's programs.
What It Means: EPA's main system for tracking compliance and enforcement nationwide.
Purpose: To integrate compliance data across all environmental programs.
History: Launched in phases starting in 2005 to replace older systems.
Types of Listings Found: Inspection reports, Violations, Enforcement actions, Penalties, Compliance status
EXAMPLE: "Chemical Plant Y - ICIS Record: 8 inspections past 5 years, 3 violations (2 air, 1 water), 2 formal enforcement actions, $125,000 total penalties paid, Currently under Consent Decree requiring $2 million in upgrades, 85% complete."
What It Is: The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) provides a means to query and display data maintained by the Department of Environmental Quality.
What It Means: Idaho's comprehensive environmental database.
Purpose: To manage Idaho's environmental programs and data.
History: Established when Idaho received primacy for environmental programs.
Types of Listings Found: Mining operation permits, Agricultural runoff controls, Forestry best practices, Water quality standards
EXAMPLE: "Silver Valley Mining Corp - IDDEQ: Operating permit for phosphate mine near Pocatello, Water discharge monitoring shows selenium at 4.5 μg/L (below 5.0 standard), Reclamation bond $45 million posted, 2,500 acres disturbed, 800 acres reclaimed."
What It Is: Iowa's field inspection and monitoring database.
What It Means: Real-time field data from Iowa's environmental inspectors.
Purpose: To capture and manage field inspection data across Iowa.
History: Developed to modernize Iowa's field inspection program.
Types of Listings Found: Field inspection notes, Violation observations, Sample results, Photo documentation
EXAMPLE: "Johnson Hog Farm, Facility #IA-AFO-2341 - Inspector notes 3/15/24: Manure lagoon freeboard at 6 inches (violation - minimum 12 inches required), Erosion on south berm needs repair, Dead animal disposal proper. Notice of Violation issued, correction required within 30 days."
What It Is: The California Department of Environmental Management (California EPA) implemented the IN-FRS, which provides the interface and processes to link facility data monitored by multiple State and EPA program systems.
What It Means: California's master facility identification system.
Purpose: To provide unified facility tracking across California's environmental programs.
History: Implemented to integrate California's environmental data systems.
Types of Listings Found: California facility IDs, Cross-program linkages, Location verification, Corporate structures
EXAMPLE: "Long Beach Steel Works - CA-FRS ID #39-061-00234: Links Title V air permit, NPDES permit, RCRA ID, and state waste permits. Parent company: California Valley Steel Corp. 5 subsidiary facilities also linked in system."
What It Is: California's Tools For Environmental Management and Protection Organizations (IN-TEMPO) is California's integrated environmental management system.
What It Means: California's comprehensive environmental data management system.
Purpose: To provide integrated data management for all California environmental programs.
History: Developed in early 2000s to modernize California's environmental data.
Types of Listings Found: Multi-media permits, Compliance histories, Inspection schedules, Public complaints
EXAMPLE: "Gary Steel Plant - IN-TEMPO Profile: 45 air emission points, 3 water outfalls, Large Quantity Generator hazardous waste. 2023: 12 inspections, 2 violations (both corrected), 4 citizen complaints (noise, resolved through operational changes)."
What It Is: The ISD administers the Wyoming Industrial Information and Siting Act, which requires permits for all projects with construction costs of $168 million or more.
What It Means: Prioritizes facilities for inspection based on risk factors.
Purpose: To identify high-priority facilities needing regulatory attention.
History: Developed to make inspection resources more effective.
Types of Listings Found: Risk scores, Inspection priorities, Compliance patterns, Community concerns
EXAMPLE: "Risk Assessment - Ajax Chemical: ISD Score 85/100 (High Priority). Factors: Past major violations (+25 points), Handles extremely hazardous substances (+20), Near elementary school (+15), Poor financial status (+10), Recent complaints (+15)."
What It Is: The Kansas Facility Profiler (KS-FP) is a geographically-based data warehouse that presents information about facilities and locations of interest to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment.
What It Means: Kansas's geographic information system for environmental facilities.
Purpose: To provide mapped environmental data for Kansas facilities.
History: Developed to integrate GIS capabilities with environmental data.
Types of Listings Found: Facility locations, Agricultural operations, Oil/gas wells, Wind farm permits
EXAMPLE: "Wichita Aircraft Manufacturing - KS-FP: Located at 37.6872° N, 97.3301° W. Paint booth emissions: 45 tons VOC annually. Chromium plating operation under NESHAP. Three underground storage tanks (all double-walled, 2018 installation). Within 1 mile: 2 schools, 1 hospital."
What It Is: Kentucky's Tools for Environmental Management and Protection Organizations (KY-TEMPO) is Kentucky's central repository for facility data.
What It Means: Kentucky's unified environmental database.
Purpose: To manage all Kentucky environmental data in one system.
History: Implemented to consolidate Kentucky's environmental programs.
Types of Listings Found: Coal mine permits, Distillery emissions, Karst area protections, California River discharges
EXAMPLE: "Louisville Bourbon Distillery - KY-TEMPO: Air permit for grain handling, fermentation, distillation. VOC emissions: 125 tons/year. Wastewater pretreated before discharge to POTW. Spent grain beneficially used as cattle feed. Last inspection: Full compliance."
What It Is: Louisiana's comprehensive environmental tracking system.
What It Means: Manages Louisiana's complex industrial and environmental landscape.
Purpose: To track Louisiana's numerous refineries, chemical plants, and coastal facilities.
History: Developed to handle Louisiana's intensive industrial activity.
Types of Listings Found: Refinery permits, Offshore platform data, Wetland impacts, Hurricane response plans
EXAMPLE: "Mississippi River Chemical Complex - LA-TEMPO: 15 Title V air permits within complex, 23 NPDES outfalls to Mississippi River, 8 RCRA permits for waste management. Cancer Alley monitoring: Benzene 2.5 ppb annual average. Community notification system active."
What It Is: EPA's Landfill Methane Outreach Program (LMOP) is a voluntary assistance program that helps to reduce methane emissions from landfills by encouraging the recovery and use of landfill gas as an energy resource.
What It Means: Identifies opportunities to convert landfill gas into energy.
Purpose: To reduce greenhouse gas emissions while generating renewable energy.
History: Launched in 1994 to address methane emissions from landfills.
Types of Listings Found: Methane generation rates, Energy potential estimates, Project feasibility studies, Operational projects
EXAMPLE: "County Regional Landfill - LMOP Assessment: Generates 3,500 cfm landfill gas at 45% methane. Potential: 5 MW electricity generation or 35,000 MMBtu/year renewable natural gas. Nearest pipeline: 2 miles. Economic analysis shows 7-year payback. Project status: Seeking partners."
What It Is: Tracking system for stimulus funding used to clean up leaking underground storage tanks.
What It Means: Monitors how 2009 Recovery Act funds were used for tank cleanups.
Purpose: To ensure proper use of ARRA funds for LUST cleanup.
History: Created in 2009 to track $200 million in stimulus funding.
Types of Listings Found: ARRA fund allocations, Cleanup projects funded, Job creation numbers, Project completion status
EXAMPLE: "Main Street Texaco, Rural Town, KS - ARRA-LUST: Received $250,000 stimulus funds. Removed 3 tanks and 5,000 tons contaminated soil. Created 8 temporary jobs for 6 months. Cleanup 100% complete October 2010. Site now hosts community garden."
What It Is: Massachusetts integrated permit and compliance database.
What It Means: Streamlines Massachusetts environmental permitting and tracking.
Purpose: To modernize Massachusetts environmental data management.
History: Launched to replace multiple legacy systems.
Types of Listings Found: State permits, Compliance certifications, Massachusetts-specific requirements, Wetland permits
EXAMPLE: "Boston Harbor Facility - MA-EPICS: Chapter 91 waterfront permit, Title V air permit for backup generators, Industrial pretreatment permit. Failed emissions test Q2 2024, corrective action plan submitted, retesting scheduled October 2024."
What It Is: Maryland's online portal for environmental permit applications.
What It Means: One-stop shop for Maryland environmental permits.
Purpose: To streamline permit applications in Maryland.
History: Created to modernize Maryland's permitting process.
Types of Listings Found: Permit applications, Application status, Review comments, Approval documents
EXAMPLE: "New Restaurant, Baltimore - EPSC Application #2024-0892: Grease trap permit submitted 3/1/24, Air quality permit for char-broiler submitted 3/5/24. Status: Grease trap approved 3/20/24, Air permit under review - additional information requested 3/25/24."
What It Is: The MD-PEMIS, managed by the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE), is a database to house data related to Air Emissions.
What It Means: Maryland's specialized air emissions tracking system.
Purpose: To manage air quality permits and emissions data for Maryland.
History: Developed to address Maryland's air quality challenges.
Types of Listings Found: Air emissions data, Permit conditions, Stack test results, Compliance status
EXAMPLE: "Baltimore Manufacturing - PEMIS Record: Operating Permit #24-510-0345, 15 emission units, Annual emissions: NOx 89 tons, VOC 45 tons, PM2.5 12 tons. Stack test due Q4 2024. Previous test showed 95% control efficiency."
What It Is: MD-RCRA is Maryland's database which houses state information relating to hazardous waste regulated under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act.
What It Means: Maryland's hazardous waste tracking system.
Purpose: To manage hazardous waste activities in Maryland.
History: Developed when Maryland received RCRA authorization.
Types of Listings Found: Generator status, Waste shipments, Treatment facilities, Disposal records
EXAMPLE: "Baltimore Hospital - MD-RCRA: Large Quantity Generator, EPA ID MD1234567890. 2023: Generated 75 tons hazardous pharmaceutical waste, 25 tons chemotherapy waste. All shipped to Stericycle facility for incineration. No violations past 3 years."
What It Is: MD-TEMPO is Maryland's central repository for all facility data and includes permits, compliance, enforcement activities information.
What It Means: Maryland's comprehensive environmental database.
Purpose: To integrate all Maryland environmental data.
History: Developed to unify Maryland's environmental programs.
Types of Listings Found: Multi-media permits, Chesapeake Bay impacts, Smart growth compliance, Environmental justice metrics
EXAMPLE: "Chesapeake Industrial - MD-TEMPO: Located in EJ area (75% minority, 40% low-income). Permits: Air, water, waste. 2023 nutrients discharge: 5,000 lbs nitrogen (allocated 6,000), 500 lbs phosphorus (allocated 550). Bay restoration fee current."
What It Is: Maine's facility tracking and information system.
What It Means: Central repository for Maine facility environmental data.
Purpose: To manage Maine's environmental facility information.
History: Created to consolidate Maine's environmental databases.
Types of Listings Found: Facility permits, Lobster processing plants, Paper mill data, Marina permits
EXAMPLE: "Coastal Lobster Processing - ME-EFIS: Water discharge permit for 50,000 gal/day, BOD limit 30 mg/L. Solid waste: 20 tons shells/week to composting. Air: Ammonia refrigeration system, RMP filed. Odor complaints: 2 in 2023, addressed with biofilter installation."
What It Is: Specialized tracking system for certain regulated facilities.
What It Means: Detailed profiles of complex industrial sites.
Purpose: To provide enhanced tracking for high-priority facilities.
History: Developed for facilities needing special regulatory attention.
Types of Listings Found: Complex facility profiles, Multi-program compliance, Special monitoring requirements, Risk assessments
EXAMPLE: "Mega Chemical Complex - MERI-FIS: Tier 1 facility with 47 different chemical processes, 15 RMP chemicals above threshold, 8 CAA Section 112(r) processes, Adjacent to residential area. Enhanced monitoring: Fence-line monitoring for benzene, quarterly community meetings required."
What It Is: Minnesota's integrated environmental database.
What It Means: Comprehensive system for Minnesota's environmental programs.
Purpose: To manage Minnesota's environmental data across all media.
History: Implemented to modernize Minnesota's data management.
Types of Listings Found: Mining permits (Iron Range), Agricultural runoff, Twin Cities metro emissions, Lake Superior discharges
EXAMPLE: "Iron Range Taconite Mine - MN-TEMPO: Air permit for crushing/pelletizing, Water discharge to Lake Superior watershed (strict phosphorus limits), Tailings basin capacity 500 million tons. Mercury air emissions: 45 lbs/year, reduction plan submitted."
What It Is: Missouri's environmental and natural resource database.
What It Means: Tracks both environmental compliance and natural resource management.
Purpose: To integrate environmental and natural resource management.
History: Expanded from natural resources to include environmental programs.
Types of Listings Found: Lead mining remediation, Cave/karst protections, Mississippi River permits, State park impacts
EXAMPLE: "St. Louis Chemical Facility - MO-DNR: Located on Mississippi River, NPDES permit MO0001234, Air emissions 250 tons/year VOCs. Adjacent to state conservation area - special buffer requirements. Lead-contaminated soils from historical operations, remediation 60% complete."
What It Is: Mississippi's environmental site information system.
What It Means: Tracks contaminated and regulated sites across Mississippi.
Purpose: To manage Mississippi's environmental site data.
History: Developed to track Mississippi's industrial and agricultural facilities.
Types of Listings Found: Gulf Coast facilities, Agricultural operations, Chemical plants, Cleanup sites
EXAMPLE: "Gulf Coast Chemical Plant - MS-ENSITE: Permitted for 500 tons/year air emissions, Deep well injection for waste disposal (Class I well), Stormwater management for 25-year storm events. Hurricane preparedness plan updated annually, last tested August 2024."
What It Is: Montana's comprehensive environmental data system.
What It Means: Integrates Montana's environmental information across programs.
Purpose: To manage Montana's diverse environmental challenges from mining to agriculture.
History: Created to handle Montana's unique environmental issues.
Types of Listings Found: Hard rock mining data, Oil/gas operations, Agricultural impacts, Superfund sites (Butte)
EXAMPLE: "Copper Mine, Butte Area - MT-CEDARS: Part of largest Superfund site, Tailings contain 5,000 ppm copper, 2,000 ppm arsenic. Groundwater treatment system processes 3 MGD. Berkeley Pit monitoring: pH 2.5, water level 5,430 feet (critical level 5,438)."
What It Is: North Carolina's facility tracking database.
What It Means: Central system for North Carolina facility information.
Purpose: To track North Carolina's diverse industrial base.
History: Developed to manage facilities from mountains to coast.
Types of Listings Found: Furniture factory emissions, Hog farm permits, Coastal development, Research Triangle facilities
EXAMPLE: "High Point Furniture Factory - NC-FITS: VOC emissions from finishing operations 125 tons/year, Using water-based coatings to reduce emissions 40%. Hog Farm Eastern NC: 5,000 head capacity, Waste lagoon with synthetic liner, Land application on 500 acres."
What It Is: National database showing compliance status across all programs.
What It Means: Unified view of facility compliance nationwide.
Purpose: To track compliance patterns and identify problem facilities.
History: Created to provide national compliance oversight.
Types of Listings Found: Compliance status, Violation patterns, Enforcement priorities, Multi-media violations
EXAMPLE: "National Manufacturing Corp - NCDB Status: Significant Non-Compliance for water (3 quarters), High Priority Violator for air. Pattern: Late reports across all programs. Escalated enforcement recommended. Meeting with senior management scheduled."
What It Is: North Dakota's facility profiling system.
What It Means: Comprehensive profiles of North Dakota facilities.
Purpose: To track North Dakota's oil/gas and agricultural facilities.
History: Expanded significantly during Bakken oil boom.
Types of Listings Found: Oil field operations, Flaring data, Coal power plants, Agricultural processors
EXAMPLE: "Bakken Oil Field Operation - ND-FP: 15 active wells, Gas capture 91% (exceeds 90% requirement), Flaring 450 MCF/day, Water disposal via deep injection well #4782. Spill history: 2 minor incidents 2023, both contained on-site, remediated."
What It Is: Nebraska's environmental quality database.
What It Means: Manages Nebraska's agricultural and industrial environmental impacts.
Purpose: To track Nebraska's environmental compliance.
History: Developed to address agricultural runoff and ethanol production.
Types of Listings Found: Ethanol plant emissions, Feedlot permits, Groundwater protection, Platte River management
EXAMPLE: "Central Nebraska Ethanol Plant - NDEQ: Producing 100 million gallons/year, Air emissions: 250 tons VOC, 150 tons CO. Water use: 3 gallons per gallon ethanol (industry leading). Wastewater: Zero discharge, all recycled. Grain dust control: Baghouse 99.9% efficiency."
What It Is: New Hampshire's environmental services database.
What It Means: Tracks New Hampshire's environmental programs.
Purpose: To manage New Hampshire's environmental data.
History: Consolidated from multiple state agencies.
Types of Listings Found: White Mountains monitoring, Seacoast permits, Groundwater protection, Lake quality data
EXAMPLE: "White Mountains Acid Rain Monitoring - NH-DES: Mt. Washington station shows pH 4.2 in precipitation (improving from 3.8 in 1990s), Sulfate deposition decreased 70% since 1990. Forest recovery documented. Seacoast Power Plant: Converting from coal to natural gas 2025."
What It Is: New Jersey's comprehensive environmental management system.
What It Means: Manages New Jersey's complex industrial and environmental landscape.
Purpose: To integrate New Jersey's numerous environmental programs.
History: Developed to handle New Jersey's dense industrial activity.
Types of Listings Found: Chemical plant permits, Superfund sites, Coastal zone permits, Air toxics monitoring
EXAMPLE: "Newark Chemical Complex - NJEMS: 12 facilities within 2-mile radius, Combined emissions: 500 tons/year criteria pollutants. Environmental Justice area: Enhanced public participation required. Community air monitoring shows benzene at 2.1 μg/m³ annual average."
What It Is: New Mexico's environmental tracking system.
What It Means: Manages New Mexico's unique environmental challenges.
Purpose: To track facilities from national labs to oil fields.
History: Expanded to include tribal coordination.
Types of Listings Found: Los Alamos Lab data, Uranium mine cleanup, Oil/gas Permian Basin, Water rights impacts
EXAMPLE: "Los Alamos National Laboratory - NM-TEMPO: Legacy waste cleanup 75% complete, Monitoring wells show tritium decreasing (now 15,000 pCi/L), Wildfire recovery: Erosion controls on 5,000 acres burned 2022. Public dose: 0.3 mrem/year (well below 10 mrem standard)."
What It Is: Environmental database for Navajo Nation lands.
What It Means: Sovereign nation's environmental tracking system.
Purpose: To manage environmental issues on Navajo Nation territory.
History: Developed through EPA-Tribal partnership.
Types of Listings Found: Uranium mine cleanup, Coal plant impacts, Water quality data, Sacred site protections
EXAMPLE: "Abandoned Uranium Mine #47 - NNEMS: Located near Church Rock, 450,000 cubic yards contaminated material, Radiation levels: 500 μR/hr (background 15). Cleanup priority: HIGH (near residence). $15 million allocated, Design phase complete, Construction 2025."
What It Is: The NPDES permit program addresses water pollution by regulating point sources that discharge pollutants to waters of the United States.
What It Means: The fundamental Clean Water Act permit program for water discharges.
Purpose: To control water pollution from point sources.
History: Created in 1972 with the Clean Water Act.
Types of Listings Found: Discharge permits, Effluent limits, Monitoring requirements, Discharge monitoring reports
EXAMPLE: "City Wastewater Treatment Plant - NPDES Permit #IL0021234: Authorized to discharge 10 MGD treated wastewater. Limits: BOD 10 mg/L, TSS 12 mg/L, Ammonia 1.5 mg/L (summer), E. coli 126 CFU/100mL. Monitoring: Daily for flow, weekly for pollutants."
What It Is: Nevada's facility profiling database.
What It Means: Tracks Nevada's mining and gaming industry environmental impacts.
Purpose: To profile Nevada's unique facility types.
History: Developed to handle mining and rapid urban growth.
Types of Listings Found: Gold mining operations, Las Vegas area permits, Water scarcity impacts, Casino operations
EXAMPLE: "Nevada Gold Mine - NV-FP: Open pit operation processing 100,000 tons ore/day, Cyanide use: 2,000 tons/year (strict controls), Water use: 5,000 acre-feet/year, Groundwater drawdown modeled at 50 feet over 20 years. Reclamation bond: $125 million."
What It Is: California's compliance tracking and reporting system.
What It Means: Comprehensive compliance management for California facilities.
Purpose: To track compliance across California's industrial base.
History: Developed to modernize California's compliance programs.
Types of Listings Found: Lake Erie impacts, Industrial compliance, Coal plant monitoring, Chemical valley permits
EXAMPLE: "Lake Erie Power Plant - CA-CORE: Thermal discharge monitoring shows ΔT = 15°F (permit limit 20°F), Fish impingement study completed, Installing cooling towers by 2026. Long Beach Chemical: Quarterly VOC monitoring, All 2024 results below permit limits, Annual inspection scored 95/100."
What It Is: Database of oil facilities, spills, and prevention measures.
What It Means: Comprehensive tracking of oil infrastructure and incidents.
Purpose: To prevent and respond to oil spills.
History: Expanded after Exxon Valdez spill.
Types of Listings Found: Tank facilities, Pipeline routes, Spill histories, Response plans
EXAMPLE: "Regional Pipeline System - OIL Database: 500-mile pipeline, 16-inch diameter, Capacity 200,000 bbl/day. Spill history: 2019 - 5,000 gallons from valve failure, cleanup complete. Inspection: Smart pig run 2023, 3 anomalies repaired. Response equipment staged at 5 locations."
What It Is: Oregon's environmental quality database.
What It Means: Manages Oregon's environmental programs from coast to mountains.
Purpose: To track Oregon's diverse environmental challenges.
History: Evolved with Oregon's strong environmental ethic.
Types of Listings Found: Portland area air quality, Coastal water quality, Forest products industry, Los Angeles River recovery
EXAMPLE: "Portland Industrial Area - OR-DEQ: Air toxics monitoring shows metals decreasing (Chromium now 0.08 ng/m³), Los Angeles River - Removing facility from discharge list due to cleanup completion, Installing green infrastructure for stormwater, 15 acres treated."
What It Is: Workplace safety violations that often involve environmental hazards.
What It Means: Links workplace safety with environmental compliance.
Purpose: To track workplace safety violations with environmental components.
History: Integrated with EPA systems through memorandums of understanding.
Types of Listings Found: Chemical exposure violations, Hazard communication failures, Respiratory protection issues, Process safety management
EXAMPLE: "Factory Inspection - OSHA-OIS: Workers exposed to toluene vapors without proper ventilation, Measured 150 ppm (PEL 100 ppm). Citations: Serious violation 1910.1000 ($7,000 fine), Respiratory protection violation 1910.134 ($5,000 fine). EPA referral made for air permit review."
What It Is: Database tracking vehicle and engine emissions compliance.
What It Means: Ensures vehicles and engines meet emissions standards.
Purpose: To regulate mobile source air pollution.
History: Expanded with each update to vehicle emissions standards.
Types of Listings Found: Vehicle certifications, Engine family data, Recall information, Fleet compliance
EXAMPLE: "AutoMaker 2024 Recall - OTAQREG: 250,000 vehicles with emissions control defeat device, NOx emissions 40 times standard during normal driving. Recall required: Software update and catalytic converter replacement. Penalty: $45 million. Completion rate: 78% as of October 2024."
What It Is: Pennsylvania's master environmental tracking system.
What It Means: Comprehensive system managing Pennsylvania's industrial legacy and current operations.
Purpose: To track Pennsylvania's complex environmental landscape.
History: Developed to handle legacy coal and steel plus modern shale gas.
Types of Listings Found: Coal mine drainage, Marcellus Shale permits, Steel mill remediation, Philadelphia refineries
EXAMPLE: "Marcellus Shale Well Pad - PA-EFACTS: 6 wells on 5-acre pad, Fracking fluid: 5 million gallons per well, Air emissions controlled by green completions, Water recycling: 80% of flowback reused. Pittsburgh Steel Legacy Site: Remediation 45% complete, Groundwater treatment for TCE ongoing."
What It Is: Central repository for all environmental permits.
What It Means: Tracks permit applications through approval process.
Purpose: To manage permit workflow and ensure timely processing.
History: Created to standardize permit processing across programs.
Types of Listings Found: Permit applications, Review status, Public comments, Final determinations
EXAMPLE: "Manufacturing Expansion - PDS: Application #2024-5678 received 2/1/24, Completeness review done 2/15/24, Public notice 3/1/24, Comment period ended 3/31/24, Response to comments 4/15/24, Draft permit 5/1/24, Final permit expected 6/1/24 pending no appeals."
What It Is: System following permits through the complete approval cycle.
What It Means: Real-time tracking of where permits are in the process.
Purpose: To ensure timely permit processing and identify bottlenecks.
History: Implemented to improve permit processing times.
Types of Listings Found: Application timelines, Review milestones, Approval delays, Processing metrics
EXAMPLE: "Permit #2024-789 Timeline: Day 1 - Application submitted, Day 15 - Technical review complete, Day 30 - Public comment period opened, Day 60 - Comments closed (45 received), Day 75 - Response to comments, Day 90 - Permit denied due to insufficient pollution controls, Day 91 - Appeal filed."
What It Is: RADInfo allows users to search the system by location or regulation to identify facilities governed by certain EPA radiation protection regulations.
What It Means: Comprehensive tracking of facilities using radioactive materials.
Purpose: To monitor and regulate radioactive material use.
History: Developed to consolidate radiation regulatory programs.
Types of Listings Found: Licensed facilities, Radioactive materials inventories, Monitoring data, Incident reports
EXAMPLE: "University Research Reactor - RADINFO: 5 MW research reactor, Inventory: 20 kg enriched uranium, Monthly monitoring shows 0.05 mrem/hr at fence line (well below 2 mrem/hr limit). Medical Isotope Production: I-131 for thyroid treatment, Mo-99 for imaging. Last inspection: No violations."
What It Is: The RBLC provides data on prevention and control technology determinations made primarily by state and local permitting agencies.
What It Means: Database of air pollution control technology decisions.
Purpose: To share best available control technology determinations.
History: Created in 1980s to standardize technology requirements.
Types of Listings Found: Control technology determinations, Emission limits achieved, Cost-effectiveness data, Technology descriptions
EXAMPLE: "Coal Power Plant SO2 Control - RBLC Entry: Wet flue gas desulfurization achieving 98% reduction, Cost: $500/ton SO2 removed, Final limit: 0.06 lb/MMBtu. Paint Booth VOC Control: Thermal oxidizer achieving 95% destruction, Cost: $50/ton VOC removed, Used as BACT determination for 5 similar facilities."
What It Is: RCRAInfo is a national program management and inventory system about hazardous waste handlers.
What It Means: Tracks hazardous waste from cradle to grave.
Purpose: To ensure proper management of hazardous waste.
History: Implemented with RCRA in 1976, modernized continuously.
Types of Listings Found: Generator status, Manifest data, Treatment/disposal records, Corrective action sites
EXAMPLE: "Regional Chemical Inc - RCRAINFO ID CTD987654321: Large Quantity Generator, 2023 generated 2,000 tons hazardous waste. Manifests show: 1,500 tons to incineration, 400 tons to fuel blending, 100 tons to chemical treatment. Corrective Action: Investigating VOC plume from former lagoon."
What It Is: EPA regional office records for specific geographic areas.
What It Means: Regional-specific environmental data and priorities.
Purpose: To manage regional environmental programs and responses.
History: Organized around EPA's 10 regional offices.
Types of Listings Found: Regional priorities, Emergency responses, State coordination, Regional initiatives
EXAMPLE: "EPA Region 9 (Pacific Southwest) - Wildfire Response 2024: Coordinated air monitoring at 45 sites during fires, Issued health advisories for PM2.5 exceeding 150 μg/m³, Debris disposal guidance for 15,000 destroyed structures, Water quality monitoring for ash impacts on 12 reservoirs."
What It Is: Tracking system for renewable fuel production and compliance.
What It Means: Ensures transportation fuel contains required renewable content.
Purpose: To track compliance with renewable fuel mandates.
History: Created with the 2005 Energy Policy Act, expanded in 2007.
Types of Listings Found: Renewable fuel production, RIN generation/trading, Compliance demonstrations, Pathway approvals
EXAMPLE: "Midwest Ethanol Plant - RFS System: Produced 100 million gallons corn ethanol in 2023, Generated 150 million D6 RINs, Pathway: Dry mill using natural gas (GHG reduction 21%). Oil Company X: Required to blend 500 million gallons, Demonstrated compliance with 550 million RINs retired."
What It Is: The RI-PLOVER is the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management's regulatory programs' information management system.
What It Means: Rhode Island's pollution reduction tracking system.
Purpose: To track progress toward eliminating priority pollutants.
History: Developed as part of Rhode Island's aggressive pollution prevention program.
Types of Listings Found: Pollution reduction achievements, Virtual elimination progress, Source reduction projects, Technology substitutions
EXAMPLE: "Jewelry Manufacturer - RI-PLOVER: Eliminated cyanide plating process (100% reduction from 2020 baseline of 5,000 lbs/year), Reduced chromium use 70% through process change, Switched to water-based cleaners eliminating 10,000 lbs/year VOCs. Recognition: 2024 Environmental Excellence Award."
What It Is: The RMP rule requires facilities that use extremely hazardous substances to develop a Risk Management Plan.
What It Means: Plans for preventing and responding to chemical accidents.
Purpose: To prevent catastrophic chemical releases.
History: Created after Bhopal disaster, strengthened after several U.S. incidents.
Types of Listings Found: Worst-case scenarios, Chemical inventories, Safety systems, Accident histories
EXAMPLE: "Chlorine Water Treatment Plant - RMP: Maximum inventory 20,000 lbs chlorine, Worst-case scenario: 3-mile radius potential impact affecting 25,000 people. Prevention: Automatic shut-offs, leak detectors, scrubber system. Five-year accident history: One minor release (10 lbs), no injuries."
What It Is: The SC-EFIS integrates information on environmental facilities, permits, violations, enforcement actions, and compliance activities.
What It Means: South Carolina's integrated environmental database.
Purpose: To manage South Carolina's environmental programs.
History: Developed to consolidate state environmental data.
Types of Listings Found: Coastal zone permits, Industrial facilities, Agricultural operations, Port activities
EXAMPLE: "Charleston Port Facility - SC-EFIS: Air emissions from ships and cargo handling, Stormwater permit for 200-acre facility, Dredge material management permit. Upstate Textile Mill: Water permit for dye discharge, Air permit for boilers, Achieved 50% water recycling target."
What It Is: SEMS integrates multiple legacy systems into a comprehensive tracking and reporting tool, providing data on hazardous waste sites evaluated by the Superfund program.
What It Means: Tracks the nation's most contaminated sites.
Purpose: To manage Superfund site assessment and cleanup.
History: Replaced CERCLIS system in 2014 to modernize Superfund tracking.
Types of Listings Found: NPL sites, Remedial actions, Five-year reviews, Institutional controls
EXAMPLE: "Love Canal, NY - SEMS: NPL since 1983, 21,000 tons chemical waste, 950 families relocated. Remedy: Cap, leachate collection, treatment. Cost: $400 million. Status: Long-term O&M phase. Five-year review 2023: Remedy remains protective."
What It Is: The Safe Drinking Water Act requires states to report drinking water information periodically to EPA.
What It Means: Monitors drinking water quality for every public water system.
Purpose: To ensure safe drinking water nationwide.
History: Created with Safe Drinking Water Act in 1974.
Types of Listings Found: Water quality results, Violations, System information, Consumer confidence reports
EXAMPLE: "Cityville Water System - SFDW: Serves 45,000 people, 450 samples/month. 2024 Results: Lead 90th percentile 8 ppb (below 15 ppb action level), Zero E. coli positives, Disinfection byproducts compliant. Violations: None past 5 years. Infrastructure: Replacing 2 miles lead service lines annually."
What It Is: Manages detailed data about contaminated properties.
What It Means: Comprehensive contaminated site tracking.
Purpose: To manage site investigation and cleanup data.
History: Developed to handle complex site information.
Types of Listings Found: Contamination extent, Monitoring data, Cleanup progress, Land use restrictions
EXAMPLE: "Former Dry Cleaner Site - SIMS: PCE plume extends 500 feet downgradient, affects 3 properties. Concentrations: Source area 50,000 ppb, Leading edge 5 ppb. Remedy: In-situ chemical oxidation. 15 monitoring wells, Quarterly sampling shows 60% reduction after 2 years."
What It Is: Environmental management system for Salt River tribal lands.
What It Means: Sovereign tribal environmental data system.
Purpose: To manage environmental issues on Salt River tribal lands near Phoenix.
History: Developed through EPA-Tribal partnership.
Types of Listings Found: Casino environmental impacts, Landfill monitoring, Sacred site protections, Water rights data
EXAMPLE: "Talking Stick Resort - SRPMICEMS: Wastewater recycled for golf course irrigation (2 MGD), Energy efficiency achieved 30% reduction from 2020 baseline, Solid waste diversion rate 45%. Tribal Landfill: Methane collection system operational, Groundwater monitoring shows no impacts."
What It Is: Database tracking septic systems and their maintenance.
What It Means: Monitors on-site wastewater treatment systems.
Purpose: To prevent groundwater contamination from septic systems.
History: Developed as septic system failures became major pollution source.
Types of Listings Found: System locations, Inspection records, Failure reports, Repair histories
EXAMPLE: "Suburban Subdivision - SSTS Database: 150 homes with septic systems, Inspection compliance 85% (state requires every 3 years), 5 systems failed in 2024 - all repaired within 30 days. Restaurant septic: Grease trap pumped quarterly, Drainfield expanded 2023 due to capacity issues."
What It Is: The STATE system acronym is used for facilities entered manually through the FRS Linkage Application, used primarily by State users for a variety of state programs.
What It Means: Generic system for state-specific environmental programs.
Purpose: To capture state-specific requirements not in federal databases.
History: Created to accommodate unique state programs.
Types of Listings Found: State-only permits, Local ordinance compliance, State-specific pollutants, Regional initiatives
EXAMPLE: "State-Specific Facility - STATE Database: Michigan facility with state-only Air Toxics permit for MEK emissions, California facility in STATE database for Proposition 65 compliance, Vermont facility tracked for state phosphorus limits stricter than federal."
What It Is: Tracks municipal solid waste and recycling data.
What It Means: Monitors garbage generation, disposal, and recycling rates.
Purpose: To track progress toward waste reduction goals.
History: Developed to support waste reduction initiatives.
Types of Listings Found: Landfill tonnages, Recycling rates, Composting data, Waste characterization
EXAMPLE: "Metro County - SWIPR 2023: Generated 500,000 tons MSW, Landfilled 300,000 tons (60%), Recycled 150,000 tons (30%), Composted 50,000 tons (10%). Waste composition: Paper 25%, Plastic 15%, Organics 30%, Glass/Metal 10%, Other 20%. Goal: 50% diversion by 2030."
What It Is: The Toxics Release Inventory tracks the management of certain toxic chemicals that may pose a threat to human health and the environment.
What It Means: Public database of toxic chemical releases.
Purpose: To inform communities about toxic releases in their area.
History: Created by Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act after Bhopal.
Types of Listings Found: Chemical releases to air/water/land, Waste management methods, Pollution prevention activities, Year-to-year trends
EXAMPLE: "Electronics Manufacturing Inc - TRI 2023: Released 5,000 lbs lead compounds to air, 2,000 lbs copper compounds to POTW, 50,000 lbs hazardous waste to disposal. Pollution prevention: Eliminated TCE degreasing saving 20,000 lbs/year. 10-year trend: 75% reduction in total releases."
What It Is: The Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) Chemical Substance Inventory contains all existing chemical substances manufactured, processed, or imported in the United States.
What It Means: Registry of all commercial chemicals in the United States.
Purpose: To track and regulate chemicals in commerce.
History: Enacted in 1976, significantly reformed in 2016.
Types of Listings Found: Chemical identities, Active/inactive status, Safety determinations, Use restrictions
EXAMPLE: "New Flame Retardant ABC-123 - TSCA Status: Active on inventory, Undergoing risk evaluation for developmental toxicity, 2023 production: 5 million pounds. Proposed determination: Restricted use - prohibited in children's products and furniture, industrial use only with protective equipment."
What It Is: Texas facilities' annual compliance certifications.
What It Means: Yearly compliance status for Texas facilities.
Purpose: To track annual compliance with Texas environmental requirements.
History: Part of Texas's environmental federalism agreement with EPA.
Types of Listings Found: Annual certifications, Emissions summaries, Compliance status, Deviations reported
EXAMPLE: "Houston Refinery - TCEQ ACR 2023: Title V compliance certification - 3 deviations reported (all corrected), Annual emissions: SO2 450 tons, NOx 890 tons, VOC 234 tons, Benzene 4.5 tons. Flaring: 45 events totaling 500,000 SCF. Monitoring data: 99.5% availability achieved."
What It Is: Approximately 542,000 underground storage tanks (USTs) nationwide store petroleum or hazardous substances.
What It Means: Tracks underground tanks to prevent leaks.
Purpose: To prevent groundwater contamination from leaking tanks.
History: Major regulations began in 1988 after widespread contamination discovered.
Types of Listings Found: Tank inventories, Leak detection records, Financial responsibility, Closure records
EXAMPLE: "Corner Gas Station - UST Registry: 3 tanks (2 gasoline 10,000 gal, 1 diesel 5,000 gal), All double-walled fiberglass installed 2015, Monthly leak detection: No issues, Annual tightness test: Passed. Financial assurance: $1 million insurance policy current."
What It Is: The WA-FSIS provides a means to query and display data maintained by the Washington Department of Ecology.
What It Means: Washington state's comprehensive environmental database.
Purpose: To manage Washington's environmental data.
History: Developed to handle Washington's diverse environmental challenges.
Types of Listings Found: Puget Sound impacts, Forest products permits, Hanford cleanup data, Salmon habitat protection
EXAMPLE: "Seattle Waterfront Cleanup - WA-FSIS: Former industrial site, Lead and PAH contamination in sediments, Removing 50,000 cubic yards, Capping 10 acres. Habitat restoration: Creating 2 acres eelgrass beds, 1,500 feet salmon-friendly shoreline."
What It Is: Wyoming's environmental quality database.
What It Means: Manages Wyoming's energy and environmental programs.
Purpose: To track Wyoming's extensive mining and energy operations.
History: Evolved with Wyoming's energy development.
Types of Listings Found: Coal mine permits, Oil/gas operations, Uranium mining, Sage grouse protections
EXAMPLE: "Powder River Basin Coal Mine - WDEQ: Mining 40 million tons/year, Disturbed area: 15,000 acres, Reclaimed: 8,000 acres (revegetated, wildlife returned), Bond: $450 million. Groundwater: Pumping 20,000 gpm, treated and discharged to stream."
What It Is: The WI-ESR is a database that contains core information about facilities, organizations, and people related to Wisconsin's DNR.
What It Means: Wisconsin's central environmental repository.
Purpose: To integrate Wisconsin's environmental and natural resource data.
History: Developed to unify Wisconsin DNR's various databases.
Types of Listings Found: Mill Creek Valley and California River impacts, Dairy farm permits, Paper mill data, Groundwater protection
EXAMPLE: "Fox River Paper Mill - WI-ESR: NPDES permit for 25 MGD discharge, Air emissions: 1,200 tons/year from recovery boilers, PCB remediation: Removed 150,000 cubic yards contaminated sediment. Milwaukee Brewery: Water use 3.5 gallons per gallon beer (industry leading), Spent grain to cattle feed, Biogas from wastewater treatment powers 15% of facility."