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Oct. 10, 2014
Supporting the Obama Administration's goal to reduce carbon emissions and protect the environment, the Energy Department is pursuing a suite of initiatives to strengthen federal energy management through increased focus on measurement of energy use in federal buildings and energy efficient building design. Principal among the efforts is the Department's issuance of a final rule that requires verified energy and water performance for new and retrofitted federal buildings that are certified by private sector green building certification systems. The rule, which goes into effect Nov. 13, ensures that in cases where agencies choose to use green building certification systems to meet federal sustainability and energy standards, they must choose a system that verifies enhanced energy and water efficiency. By requiring re-assessments at least every four years, the rule will ensure energy and water savings continue well beyond the initial building opening or retrofit. System requirements for the verification of energy and water performance in new construction and major renovations will lead to reduced consumption through active energy and water management.
Oct. 8, 2014
The White House Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) has released a fact sheet detailing the Obama Administration's new executive actions and series of private and public sector commitments that will improve the management of our natural resources in the context of a changing climate and support investment in green infrastructure.
Oct. 8, 2014
EPA has posted additional data and added new functions to ChemView, EPA's publicly-accessible, one-stop online tool to find information for chemicals regulated under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). The updated database now includes the following new information: 244 consent orders, an additional 1,205 Significant New Use Rules (SNURs) for new and existing chemicals, 16 additional chemicals with test rule data, and updates to the Safer Chemicals Ingredient List. This is the first time EPA has posted consent orders and new chemical SNURs to ChemView. With these additions, ChemView now contains information on almost 10,000 chemicals. EPA is also encouraging people to complete a ten minute customer satisfaction survey to help guide future improvements to ChemView.
Oct. 8, 2014
The Southern Review of Legislative & Regulatory Actions, published by the U.S. Army's Regional Environmental and Energy Office--Southern (REEO-S), is designed to provide current information to environmental decision makers, planners, and program managers regarding environmental actions and events throughout Federal EPA Region 4 (Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee). Information listed may be relevant to the U.S. Army and other Military Services' activities and operations. See attached.
Oct. 7, 2014
Monthly environmental news for DoD facilities in EPA Regions 1, 2 & 3 for August/September 2014. See attached.
Oct. 7, 2014
The Discharge Monitoring Report (DMR) Pollutant Loading Tool is designed to help you determine who is discharging, what pollutants they are discharging and how much, and where they are discharging. The tool calculates pollutant loadings from permit and DMR data from EPA's Integrated Compliance Information System for the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (ICIS-NPDES). Data are available from the year 2007 to the present. Revisions to the tool include: weekly updates with the latest facility, permit, and DMR data from ICIS-NPDES; integration of EPA TRI wastewater treatment technology information and links to the TRU pollution prevention report; and more documentation on how to use the tool.
Oct. 3, 2014
Following the lead of popular low-cost commercial car-sharing ventures, GSA is actively pursuing similar initiatives to help federal agencies reduce costs, improve efficiency, and optimize vehicle use. In pursuit of these initiatives, GSA issued an award to four vendors to provide car sharing services on August 26, 2014. The four vendors will provide car-sharing as an option for federal employees that use government vehicles on a short-term hourly basis, not to exceed the one-day maximum.
Oct. 1, 2014
EPA has released its fourth year of Greenhouse Gas Reporting Program data, detailing greenhouse gas pollution trends and emissions broken down by industrial sector, geographic region and individual facilities. In 2013, reported emissions from large industrial facilities were 20 million metric tons higher than the prior year, or 0.6 percent, driven largely by an increase in coal use for power generation.
Sep. 26, 2014
GSA has released a review of the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Version 4 (LEED v4), the new version of the LEED green building certification system published in November 2013 by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). The purpose of the review was to examine how LEED v4 aligns with existing federal statutory, regulatory, and Executive Order green building requirements.
Sep. 24, 2014
DOE is funding nine projects that will advance the development of combined heat and power (CHP) and renewable energy technologies at facilities across the federal government and help meet energy efficiency, renewable energy, and greenhouse gas reduction goals. As the nation's largest single user of energy, the federal government is leading by example. These projects will reduce carbon emissions, while strengthening America's economic, energy, and environmental security. Projects are being implemented at NASA, Army, National Science Foundation, Agriculture, Justice, Interior, Air National Guard, and Transportation facilities.
Sep. 24, 2014
(ATLANTA – September 24, 2014) EPA Region 4 has issued an Order that requires the U.S. Army take expedited corrective measures at the former Fort Gillem in Forest Park, Georgia. EPA issued the Order under Section 7003 of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), which is intended to address an imminent and substantial endangerment to health or the environment related to past waste handling activities. The Army has 10 days in which it may respond to the 7003 order. If the Army does not respond, the Order becomes effective on the 11th day after the date of receipt. EPA believes that an Order is necessary to protect the health of the community and the environment surrounding Fort Gillem.
Sep. 19, 2014
The site offers complete annual data sets of agency aggregated annual energy and water consumption and costs by end-use sector, efficiency investment information, and progress toward key goals outlined in the National Energy Conservation Policy Act, as amended; Energy Policy Act of 2005; and Executive Order 13514. Historical data tables of agency energy use and costs by facility and mobility sectors by energy type are also available for FY 1975 through FY 2013. Detailed annual comprehensive greenhouse gas (GHG) inventories by federal agency are presented along with progress toward achieving scope 1 and 2 GHG and scope 3 GHG reduction targets. The data tables may also be filtered by numerous variables (agency, year, sector) and are exportable to Excel.
Sep. 18, 2014
The U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) issued a Request for Information (RFI) this week for innovative, transformational green building technologies in support of its Green Proving Ground (GPG) program. The program is seeking information from industry stakeholders, commercial organizations, educational institutions, and non-profit organizations on technologies that have the potential to improve economic and environmental performance in federal buildings. The response date is 7 November 2014.
Sep. 17, 2014
DHS is committed to sustainability and each year recognizes the most significant contributions to greener government. During a Sept. 5 ceremony, the Acting Under Secretary for Management and Chief Readiness Support Officer honored members of the DHS team who made the most significant contributions to improving the environment, business operations, efficiency and economy.
Sep. 15, 2014
The U.S. EPA has reached a settlement with the U.S. Navy over alleged environmental violations at the Naval Support Activity Hampton Roads in Chesapeake, Va. Under the settlement over violations of the Clean Air Act and the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), the Navy will pay a $49,500 penalty and implement procedures to ensure the proper handling of its hazardous wastes. The Clean Air Act violations pertained to regulations designed to reduce discharges of ozone-depleting substances used as coolants in air conditioning units. EPA alleged that the facility did not perform leak rate calculations when it serviced those units. In addition, EPA alleged that the facility did not have a CAA permit to operate a diesel-fired boiler, which meant that the boiler was not subject to required emissions limits. The RCRA violations pertained to regulations that require the safe, environmentally-sound storage and disposal of hazardous waste and prevention of spills from underground storage tanks. The Navy has upgraded its underground storage tanks, which should help protect waters in the nearby Great Dismal Swamp.
Sep. 12, 2014
The Northern Review of Legislative & Regulatory Actions provides current information on government affairs, energy and environment relevant to Department of Defense interests in the 22 states and territories in Federal Regions 1, 2, 3 and 5. The Review is intended to be a tool useful to DoD and Army leaders, planners, and program managers in carrying out their responsibilities. The Northern Review of Legislative & Regulatory Actions monitors and targets proposed and final regulations and legislation that may affect Army or DoD operations. See attached.
Sep. 11, 2014
This release features the addition of Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (hazardous waste) and EPA Civil Enforcement Case compliance data searching. The Hazardous Waste Facility search offers detailed program-specific search options to find hazardous waste handlers of interest. The EPA Civil Enforcement Case Search allows users to search for specific EPA civil cases based on a number of criteria like statute and case milestone, making it much easier to obtain a list of cases of interest with corresponding summary data. EPA also has upgraded the popular Clean Water Act Effluent Charts to provide more download capabilities.
Sep. 11, 2014
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service have released an initial assessment of contamination at Tern Island, a remote island in the chain of Northwestern Hawaiian Islands (NWHI). The results show that there have been releases of hazardous substances such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and lead from military wastes buried on the island between World War II and 1979, and further action is warranted.
Sep. 8, 2014
The Southern Review of Legislative & Regulatory Actions, published by the U.S. Army's Regional Environmental and Energy Office--Southern (REEO-S), is designed to provide current information to environmental decision makers, planners, and program managers regarding environmental actions and events throughout Federal EPA Region 4 (Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee). Information listed may be relevant to the U.S. Army and other Military Services' activities and operations. See attached.
Sep. 5, 2014
EPA invites nominations of a diverse group of qualified candidates to be considered for appointment to the Good Neighbor Environmental Board (GNEB). Vacancies must be filled by March 2015, but nominations must be received by the end of October 2014 to be included in the candidate pool. The GNEB was created in 1992 by the Enterprise for the Americas Initiative Act, and it is responsible for providing advice to the President on environmental and infrastructure issues and needs within the States contiguous to Mexico. The GNEB consists of representatives from U.S. Government agencies; the states of Arizona, California, New Mexico and Texas; academia; environmental and non-governmental entities; business and industry; and tribal and private organizations. Members are appointed by the EPA Administrator for two-year terms. For information on the board, see http://www.epa.gov/ocem/gneb/index.html. For information on the nomination process, click here.
Aug. 22, 2014
Formerly known as the "Yellow Book" this website compendium of information provides field-level personnel a primer for complying with environmental requirements and understanding the enforcement and compliance processes used by EPA at federal facilities. Included on the site is a definition of what is included in the terminology "federal facilities," summaries of the enforcement process for federal facilities, and information on available assistance for achieving compliance.
Aug. 19, 2014
EPA's Climate Ready Estuaries, a program that works with the National Estuary Programs and coastal management community on assessing climate change vulnerabilities and developing and implementing adaptation strategies, has redesigned their website. Resources are now easier to find and webpages are now searchable. New features include interactive maps of Climate Ready Estuary projects, king tides, and more.
Aug. 14, 2014
Summer 2014 edition of the DoD Chesapeake Bay Program Journal, published quarterly and sponsored by the DOD/Navy Chesapeake Bay Program Office. See attached.
Aug. 14, 2014
The Northern Review of Legislative & Regulatory Actions provides current information on government affairs, energy and environment relevant to Department of Defense interests in the 22 states and territories in Federal Regions 1, 2, 3 and 5. The Review is intended to be a tool useful to DoD and Army leaders, planners, and program managers in carrying out their responsibilities. The Northern Review of Legislative & Regulatory Actions monitors and targets proposed and final regulations and legislation that may affect Army or DoD operations. See attached.
Aug. 13, 2014
This is the summer issue of the DoD-sponsored newsletter issued as a part of the Legacy Resource Management Program. The newsletter updates the status of the Legacy program, provides information on training and meetings, and highlights success stories and future plans. The theme of this issue is birds.
Aug. 12, 2014
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has released the "Climate Change and Health" webcast presentation that was orginally aired live on August 6, 2014. Based on the latest scientific evidence, HHS considers climate change to be one of the top public health challenges of our time. HHS assembled internationally-recognized experts from NOAA, CDC, and NIH for this webcast. It includes an overarching national perspective and regional snapshots on climate change, key health findings from the National Climate Assessment, and best practices to build health resilience in communities. The webcast can be accessed here.
Aug. 12, 2014
The report, "Water/Wastewater Utilities and Extreme Climate and Weather Events: Case Studies on Community Response, Lessons Learned, Adaptation, and Planning Needs for the Future" examines how water, wastewater, and stormwater utilities - and other local water resource managers - make decisions in response to recent extreme weather events. The report is based on the results of six local workshops, organized to include participants that experienced different types of extreme events throughout a river basin or watershed in various regions of the U.S. The study examines what happened, how information was used to inform decisions, what institutional dynamics helped or hindered, and how water utilities and their communities plan to manage impacts and build resiliency for future extreme events. The research was jointly sponsored by EPA, NOAA, Water Environment Research Foundation, Water Research Foundation, Concurrent Technologies Corporation, and Noblis. Click here to access the report.
Aug. 12, 2014
"Climate Matters" is a new semi-annual publication featuring current activities in the U.S. Geological Survey Climate Research & Development Program. The newsletter highlights recent research findings and their relevance to societal needs, as well as issues of importance for resource managers, policy makers, and the general public.
Aug. 8, 2014
In celebration of the fifth anniversary of the Partnership for Sustainable Communities, the Department of Housing and Urban Development, Department of Transportation, and EPA released "Five Years of Learning from Communities and Coordinating Federal Investments," a report demonstrating how the three agencies are cooperating to help communities provide more housing choices, make transportation systems more efficient and reliable, and create vibrant neighborhoods that attract business development and jobs while protecting the environment.
Aug. 5, 2014
Monthly environmental news for DoD facilities in EPA Regions 1, 2 & 3 for May/June/July 2014. See attached.
Aug. 4, 2014
The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) will accept nominations for any project, process, group, or individual in the public, private, or non-profit sectors that has used FHWA funding sources to make an outstanding contribution to transportation and the environment. The nomination period for the 2015 EEAs will open on August 15th and close on September 15th. Checkout the website for the list of categories and details on the submission process.
Aug. 1, 2014
This report focuses on the major achievements under the NSES as of July 2014, as well as the impacts of improved electronics stewardship and the significance of upcoming commitments within the NSES.
Jul. 31, 2014
This GAO report, Opportunities to Reduce Federal Fiscal Exposures Through Greater Resilience to Climate Change and Extreme Weather, release the results of a GAO study concerning the impact of climate change and extreme weather on federal facilities. The primary finding was that climate change and related extreme weather impacts on infrastructure and federal lands increase fiscal exposures that the federal budget does not fully reflect. Investing in resilience--actions to reduce potential future losses rather than waiting for an event to occur and paying for recovery afterward--can reduce the potential impacts of climate-related events. Implementing resilience measures creates additional up-front costs but could also confer benefits, such as a reduction in future damages from climate-related events.
Jul. 25, 2014
As part of the Obama Administration's initiative to reduce energy use, pollution and waste and save money in Federal operations, on 25 July 2014 Federal agencies released annual updates that show significant progress toward aggressive energy and sustainability goals set by the President in 2009. The Federal Government – the largest energy consumer in the U.S. economy – announced that it has reduced its greenhouse gas emissions by 17 percent since 2008, the equivalent of permanently taking 1.8 million cars off the road, and that 9 percent of Federal Government electricity is now from renewable sources.
Jul. 25, 2014
The R.I. Air National Guard, 143rd Airlift Wing, has agreed to pay a $39,400 penalty to settle EPA claims that it violated air pollution laws at this facility where it spray paints aircraft parts. As part of the settlement, R.I. Air National Guard also agreed to meet more stringent emissions limits for volatile organic compounds (VOCs), to use coating practices that minimize emissions, to cap its annual VOC emissions, and to apply for state air permit. EPA alleged that the R.I. Air National Guard violated air pollution laws by failing to apply for a required New Source Review permit in 2001 before installing a paint spray booth and before buying four spray guns. EPA also alleged that it also violated air pollution laws for coating of metal parts and products by failing to comply with specific certification and recordkeeping requirements.
Jul. 18, 2014
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has launched a Green Infrastructure Collaborative with the support of six other government agencies at the President's State, Local, and Tribal Leaders Task Force on Climate Preparedness and Resilience. EPA joined with the U.S. Department of Transportation, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, U.S. Department of Agriculture, U.S. Department of Interior, U.S. Department of Defense, and U.S. Department of Energy to release a Federal Letter of Support for green infrastructure and the Collaborative.
Jul. 17, 2014
The Southern Review of Legislative & Regulatory Actions, published by the U.S. Army's Regional Environmental and Energy Office--Southern (REEO-S), is designed to provide current information to environmental decision makers, planners, and program managers regarding environmental actions and events throughout Federal EPA Region 4 (Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee). Information listed may be relevant to the U.S. Army and other Military Services' activities and operations. See attached.
Jul. 14, 2014
The DoD Cultural Resources UPDATE is sponsored by the DoD Cultural Resource Program. This edition highlights several current initiatives, provides an overview of new and ongoing training opportunities, and features information on recently published reports relevant to the DoD CRM community. See attached.
Jul. 14, 2014
FedCenter is now on Facebook! Become a fan and follow us on Facebook, where you'll find valuable information that you need to help meet your environmental stewardship and compliance obligations. To follow us on Facebook, go to https://facebook.com/fedcenter.
Jul. 14, 2014
The Northern Review of Legislative & Regulatory Actions provides current information on government affairs, energy and environment relevant to Department of Defense interests in the 22 states and territories in Federal Regions 1, 2, 3 and 5. The Review is intended to be a tool useful to DoD and Army leaders, planners, and program managers in carrying out their responsibilities. The Northern Review of Legislative & Regulatory Actions monitors and targets proposed and final regulations and legislation that may affect Army or DoD operations. See attached.
Jul. 9, 2014
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has released a new tool to help communities prepare for, deal with and recover from floods. The Flood Resilience Checklist offers strategies that communities can consider, such as conserving land in flood-prone areas; directing new development to safer areas; and using green infrastructure approaches, such as installing rain gardens, to manage stormwater.
Jul. 3, 2014
EPA inspections found that from at least 2012 to 2013, Fort Wainwright failed to perform leak detection tests, monitor underground storage tanks regularly and investigate suspected releases as required under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). The U.S. Army is taking steps to improve management of its fuel storage tanks and comply with federal laws designed to protect groundwater at Fort Wainwright Garrison, located near Fairbanks, Alaska, according to a settlement with the U.S. EPA. Steps include a new operator, decommissioning some tanks, and paying a penalty of nearly $158,700.
Jul. 1, 2014
The policy commits the Agency to work with states, tribes, and local communities to increase their resilience to extreme weather events and prepare for the impacts of climate change. The policy is an update of the EPA policy first issued in June 2011.
Jun. 26, 2014
TCE is widely used in spray aerosol degreasers, spray fixatives, and dry cleaning activities. The final TCE risk assessment was developed as part of the agency's Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) Work Plan, which identified chemicals for review and assessment of potential risks to people's health and the environment. EPA developed the draft TCE risk assessment based on the best available information and finalized the assessment after careful consideration of comments from the public and experts during an independent, scientific peer review of the assessment. TCE is the first chemical to complete the work plan risk assessment process under TSCA. EPA is conducting a workshop from July 29-30 (details coming later), on potential TCE degreaser alternatives and risk reduction approaches. EPA will conduct other activities to address TCE uses as a stain removing agent in dry cleaning and as a clear protective spray fixative. In the meantime, EPA recommends that people take precautions that can reduce exposures, such as using the product outside or in an extremely well-ventilated area and wearing protective equipment to reduce exposure.
Jun. 25, 2014
Enforcement and Compliance History Online (ECHO) Release 2.2 has added Clean Water Act compliance data searching and detailed viewing of effluent discharge data. Plus, data downloads are updated once a week instead of annually and include more detailed Clean Water Act data than in prior versions of ECHO.
Jun. 24, 2014
On June 24, 2014, DoD, GSA, and NASA issued an interim rule amending the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement changes in the Electronic Product Environmental Assessment Tool (EPEAT®) registry beyond personal computer products to cover imaging equipment (i.e., copiers, digital duplicators, facsimile machines, mailing machines, multifunction devices, printers, and scanners) and televisions and modify the existing FAR requirements to recognize the revised standard applicable to computer products. For more information, click here.
Jun. 23, 2014
Since the launch of WaterSense in 2006, EPA and its partners have helped consumers save $14.2 billion in energy and water bills and 757 billion gallons of water from using WaterSense-labeled products. More than 2,900 water utilities, organizations, manufacturers, retailers, distributors, builders, and irrigation professionals certified through WaterSense programs have joined EPA to promote WaterSense-labeled products, programs, and new homes. Nearly 11,000 different models of toilets, faucets, showerheads, flushing urinals, weather-based irrigation controllers, and pre-rinse spray valves have been independently certified for performance and efficiency to earn the WaterSense label.
Jun. 18, 2014
(SAN FRANCISCO, 06/17/2014)– At a meeting of federal agencies in Phoenix, Ariz. the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recognized Grand Canyon National Park for its efforts to reduce energy use with its prestigious Federal Green Challenge Award. EPA's Regional Administrator for the Pacific Southwest, Jared Blumenfeld, presented the award to Tim Jarrell, Chief of the Park's Facilities Management Division. "At the Grand Canyon National Park, greenhouse gas emissions were slashed when energy consumption was cut by 32 percent," said Regional Administrator Blumenfeld. "Federal agencies participating in the Pacific Southwest program saved over $31.8 million by reducing waste, water, and energy use over the past two years."
Jun. 18, 2014
The June 4th webinar-meeting minutes and presentation are now available from www.epa.gov/iaq/ciaq. Seven Departments and Agencies gave updates on their IAQ-IEQ related activities (NIST, CPSC, HUD, DOE, GSA, VA, EPA). The subject of the presentation given by Chris Muller (Purafil, Inc.) was "ASHRAE Standard 62.1: The IAQ Procedure and LEED".
Jun. 16, 2014
The Northern Review of Legislative & Regulatory Actions provides current information on government affairs, energy and environment relevant to Department of Defense interests in the 22 states and territories in Federal Regions 1, 2, 3 and 5. The Review is intended to be a tool useful to DoD and Army leaders, planners, and program managers in carrying out their responsibilities. The Northern Review of Legislative & Regulatory Actions monitors and targets proposed and final regulations and legislation that may affect Army or DoD operations. See attached.
Jun. 10, 2014
On 23 April 2014 Kate E. Brandt was appointed as the new Federal Environmental Executive. The Office of the Federal Environmental Executive (OFEE) is responsible for promoting sustainability and environmental stewardship throughout Federal government operations. Created by Executive Order in 1993, the Office is housed at the President's Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ), is administered by EPA, and stewards the interagency Steering Committee on Federal Sustainability. For more information on Kate E. Brandt, look at the OFEE website.
Jun. 10, 2014
The Southern Review of Legislative & Regulatory Actions, published by the U.S. Army's Regional Environmental and Energy Office--Southern (REEO-S), is designed to provide current information to environmental decision makers, planners, and program managers regarding environmental actions and events throughout Federal EPA Region 4 (Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee). Information listed may be relevant to the U.S. Army and other Military Services' activities and operations. See attached.
Jun. 5, 2014
GSA is planning on using Green Button technology to save energy and shrink costs across the federal government. The agency launched this initiative in partnership with industry leaders following a 2013 Presidential memorandum directing federal agencies to strengthen efforts to use renewable energy and manage energy usage more efficiently and effectively.
Jun. 4, 2014
Through a settlement with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) has certified that five of its facilities in Virginia are currently in compliance with federal and state underground storage tank (UST) regulations. As part of this certification, USPS has corrected violations associated with its failure to conduct release detection testing; line leak detector testing; a line tightness test, and failure to investigate/report a suspected release. The USPS will also pay a civil penalty of $55,258.
May. 29, 2014
New water components have been added to the Federal Green Challenge. Now it includes the goal of decreasing stormwater runoff from existing sites by 5% or more annually and a section focusing on reducing the use of federal funds to purchase bottled water. Launched in October 2011, the Challenge is a national effort led by EPA's Sustainable Materials Management Program that challenges federal agencies to lead by example to reduce the federal government's environmental impact. Participating agencies will benefit from the new water components. Effective stormwater management through the use of green infrastructure practices may result in: improved energy, efficiency, and improved site aesthetics. Since green infrastructure techniques may be less expensive than conventional stormwater management approaches, there may also be cost savings.
May. 22, 2014
EPA is recognizing federal facilities for their efforts to reduce the environmental impacts of facilities across the country. As part of the Federal Green Challenge (FGC), more than 400 federal facilities representing nearly 1.6 million federal employees are leading by example by taking steps to reduce the federal government's environmental impact in 2013, resulting in an estimated cost savings of more than $42 million to U.S. taxpayers. This year's Overall Achievement winner is The National Benefits Center, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Lee's Summit, Mo. Additional winners by target areas include DOE, DOD, and DOI facilities.
May. 14, 2014
The Northern Review of Legislative & Regulatory Actions provides current information on government affairs, energy and environment relevant to Department of Defense interests in the 22 states and territories in Federal Regions 1, 2, 3 and 5. The Review is intended to be a tool useful to DoD and Army leaders, planners, and program managers in carrying out their responsibilities. The Northern Review of Legislative & Regulatory Actions monitors and targets proposed and final regulations and legislation that may affect Army or DoD operations. See attached.
May. 9, 2014
Developed by National Climate Assessment and Development Advisory Committee (NCADAC), the full report of the National Climate Assessment provides an in-depth look at climate change impacts on the U.S. It details the multitude of ways climate change is already affecting and will increasingly affect the lives of Americans. The report is available to download and can be explored interactively through USGCRP's website.
May. 8, 2014
Developed by EPA in cooperation with multiple Federal agencies, this is a web-based interactive tool that integrates over 300 separate data layers, helps decision makers understand the implications of planning and policy decisions on our fragile ecosystems and the communities who depend on goods and services from these ecosystems. EnviroAtlas is designed for people from all levels of government, professionals, researchers, educators, non-governmental organizations, and anyone interested in considering the benefits or impacts of a decision, such as siting a new road or city park. EnviroAtlas uses seven broad benefit categories to organize its information and data on ecosystem services: Clean Air, Clean and Plentiful Water, Natural Hazard Mitigation, Climate Stabilization, Recreation, Culture and Aesthetics, Food, Fuel and Materials, and Biodiversity Conservation.
May. 8, 2014
The Southern Review of Legislative & Regulatory Actions, published by the U.S. Army's Regional Environmental and Energy Office--Southern (REEO-S), is designed to provide current information to environmental decision makers, planners, and program managers regarding environmental actions and events throughout Federal EPA Region 4 (Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee). Information listed may be relevant to the U.S. Army and other Military Services' activities and operations. See attached.
May. 7, 2014
This May 2014 document was developed by VA's Office of Construction and Facilities Management in cooperation with other VA partners. The intent of the document is to consolidate the wide range of sustainable design requirements into one easy-to-navigate resource.
May. 6, 2014
EPA has recognized six federal agency offices in California with its prestigious Federal Green Challenge (FGC) program award for reducing their operations' environmental impacts. Honored entities are: Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Pacific Southwest Lab, Naval Base Coronado, U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) Pacific Rim Region, U.S. Forest Service Region 5, and Marine Corps Air Station Miramar.
May. 5, 2014
Spring 2014 edition of the DoD Chesapeake Bay Program Journal, published quarterly and sponsored by the DOD/Navy Chesapeake Bay Program Office. See attached.
May. 1, 2014
This May will mark the 24th anniversary of American Wetlands Month, a time when EPA and its partners in federal, state, tribal, local, non-profit, and private sector organizations celebrate the vital importance of wetlands to the Nation's ecological, economic, and social health. It is also a great opportunity to discover and teach others about the important role that wetlands play in our environment and the significant benefits they provide - improved water quality, increased water storage and supply, reduced flood and storm surge risk, and critical habitat for plants, fish, and wildlife.
Apr. 30, 2014
Monthly environmental news for DoD facilities in EPA Regions 1, 2 & 3 for April 2014. See attached.
Apr. 28, 2014
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has finalized an agreement with Andersen Air Force Base (AAFB) in Guam requiring the base to update its oil spill prevention plan and address other spill prevention deficiencies at the base to better protect Guam's water resources. The Federal Facility Compliance Agreement (FFCA) between EPA and AAFB will require an updated Spill Prevention, Control and Countermeasure (SPCC) plan and changes to the facilities to comply with newer, more stringent oil spill prevention requirements. The new plan will include AAFB, the Navy Base, and the petroleum pipeline between the two facilities.
Apr. 28, 2014
March/April (Spring) edition of the Defense Operational Energy Highlights newsletter, published by the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Operational Energy Plans and Programs. This edition includes: • ASD Burke Resigns • DoD Releases Comprehensive Energy Policy • Energy and Climate in the 2014 Quadrennial Defense Review • ASD Burke Testifies Before Congress • Chairman Dempsey Discusses Operational Energy with Rep. Scott Peters • Travels with ASD Burke: CERA Week in Houston, TX • OEPP Launches Partnership with Power Africa • Tweet of the Month Read more.
Apr. 28, 2014
The Department of Defense (DoD) announced the winners of the 2014 Secretary of Defense Environmental Awards on April 21, 2014. Each year, since 1962, the Department has honored individuals, teams, and installations for their outstanding achievements in environmental performance. In naming the winners of the 2014 Secretary of Defense Environmental Awards, Frank Kendall, the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology and Logistics, stated, "Their remarkable achievements exemplify the Department's continued commitment to sustain mission readiness while cost-effectively addressing environmental issues, thereby increasing efficiencies and supporting the quality of life for service members, their families, and local communities."
Apr. 28, 2014
The ECHO data sets have been compiled for access to larger sets of national data to ensure that ECHO meets your data retrieval needs. While ECHO provides data detailing compliance assurance and enforcement activities related to federal environmental laws, it has a limited online display of data. The ECHO data sets are available for download to review these expanded data sets. Each data set is a compressed zip file containing one or more comma-delimited text files. The download summary documents posted after each data set contain a file listing and definitions of included data elements. Data sets include information on Clean Air Act Stationary Sources, NPDES dischargers, Discharge Monitoring Reports (DMR), hazardous waste, and civil enforcement information. Datasets will be updated weekly.
Apr. 22, 2014

May is quickly approaching, and communities across the country are preparing to celebrate National Bike Month. This year, the White House Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) and the Pacific Northwest regions of the EPA and DOT are cranking up efforts to promote the Federal Bike-to-Work Challenge.

Apr. 18, 2014
This is an independent virtual center or focal point that integrates information on sustainable products and serves as DoD's informational repository for these products and their respective performances to include demonstrations of alternative green products and services conducted at DoD installations.
Apr. 15, 2014
EPA has released its 19th annual report of overall U.S. greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, showing a 3.4 percent decrease in 2012 from 2011. The Inventory of U.S. Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Sinks presents a national-level overview of annual greenhouse gas emissions since 1990.
Apr. 14, 2014
During each chat, EPA will have different EPA experts sharing information on climate change and what we all can do to act on climate. EPA invites you to join the conversation and ask questions.
Apr. 11, 2014
The Northern Review of Legislative & Regulatory Actions provides current information on government affairs, energy and environment relevant to Department of Defense interests in the 22 states and territories in Federal Regions 1, 2, 3 and 5. The Review is intended to be a tool useful to DoD and Army leaders, planners, and program managers in carrying out their responsibilities. The Northern Review of Legislative & Regulatory Actions monitors and targets proposed and final regulations and legislation that may affect Army or DoD operations. See attached.
Apr. 10, 2014
The Plan identifies the measurable environmental and human health outcomes the public can expect over the next four years and describes how we intend to achieve those results.
Apr. 10, 2014
The Southern Review of Legislative & Regulatory Actions, published by the U.S. Army's Regional Environmental and Energy Office--Southern (REEO-S), is designed to provide current information to environmental decision makers, planners, and program managers regarding environmental actions and events throughout Federal EPA Region 4 (Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee). Information listed may be relevant to the U.S. Army and other Military Services' activities and operations. See attached.
Apr. 7, 2014
EPA is providing a number of avenues to kickstart your Earth Month/Earth Day celebrations. There are daily tips, twitter feeds, blog posts, and ways you can pledge to improve the environment.
Apr. 4, 2014
These settlements stem from what EPA determined was improper demolition work performed at the DOE Hanford Site. In August 2012, in response to complaints from Hanford workers, EPA inspected several demolition sites dating back to 2007. Samples collected by EPA showed remaining debris from the demolitions contained regulated asbestos waste.
Apr. 3, 2014
Learn more about the recent U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers jointly released proposed rule to clarify protection under the Clean Water Act for streams and wetlands that form the foundation of the nation's water resources. The webcast will provide a broad overview of the proposed rule and its costs and benefits. The webcast presentation will be posted in advance. Participants are eligible to receive a certificate for attending this webcast.
Apr. 3, 2014
EPA is looking for small businesses, governments, and not-for-profit organizations to participate as Small Entity Representatives (SERs) for a Small Business Advocacy Review (SBAR) Panel. This panel will focus on the agency's proposed extension of medium- and heavy-duty vehicles' greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions standards beyond model year 2018.
Apr. 2, 2014
Monthly environmental news for DoD facilities in EPA Regions 1, 2 & 3 for January-March 2014. See attached.
Mar. 27, 2014
These awards will recognize the energy and water conservation achievements and programs of individuals, small groups, and garrisons and will provide an added incentive to further reduce energy and water consumption. Current award categories are: Energy efficiency and energy management; Innovation and new technology; Renewable energy; Alternative financing; Water conservation; and Energy program effectiveness.
Mar. 26, 2014
EPA and the Army Corps have jointly released a proposed rule to clarify protection under the Clean Water Act for streams and wetlands that form the foundation of the nation's water resources. The proposed rule clarifies protection for streams and wetlands. The proposed definitions of waters will apply to all Clean Water Act (CWA) programs. It does not protect any new types of waters that have not historically been covered under the Clean Water Act and is consistent with the Supreme Court's more narrow reading of Clean Water Act jurisdiction. EPA has provided detailed explanations of the impact of the proposed rule on its' website.
Mar. 26, 2014
The average global temperature for 2013 tied as the fourth warmest year since record keeping began in 1880, according to NOAA scientists. It also marked the 37th consecutive year with a global temperature above the 20th century average. The last below-average annual temperature was 1976. Including 2013, all 13 years of the 21st century (2001-2013) rank among the 15 warmest in the 134-year period of record. The three warmest years on record are 1998, 2005, and 2010. This analysis is from NOAA's National Climatic Data Center in Asheville, North Carolina.
Mar. 20, 2014
The Presidential Green Chemistry Challenge Awards recognize innovative technologies that are making chemicals and chemical processes safer, more efficient, or cleaner. EPA is seeking nominations from companies and institutions that have developed safer chemical processes and products that may reduce the generation and use of chemicals that are hazardous to people's health and the environment. Nominations for innovative technologies that feature the design of greener chemicals/products, greener chemical synthesis, or greener chemical reactions are due by April 30, 2014. Information on past award winners and how to submit entries can be found at: http://www2.epa.gov/green-chemistry.
Mar. 19, 2014
(DALLAS, TX – March 18, 2014) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued an order to the U.S. Department of the Army to address 15 million pounds of abandoned explosives and propellant stored on the grounds of Camp Minden in Minden, LA.
Mar. 13, 2014
The Northern Review of Legislative & Regulatory Actions provides current information on government affairs, energy and environment relevant to Department of Defense interests in the 22 states and territories in Federal Regions 1, 2, 3 and 5. The Review is intended to be a tool useful to DoD and Army leaders, planners, and program managers in carrying out their responsibilities. The Northern Review of Legislative & Regulatory Actions monitors and targets proposed and final regulations and legislation that may affect Army or DoD operations. See attached.
Mar. 12, 2014
FEMP's annual Better Buildings Federal Award challenges agencies to achieve the greatest reduction in annual energy intensity, or energy consumed per gross square foot. This year, FEMP will recognize the highest-performing federal government building that participates in the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's 2014 Battle of the Buildings national competition. FEMP strongly encourages agencies to participate in this exciting annual EPA competition, which uses Portfolio Manager to measure, track, and report buildings' monthly energy consumption. If you have any questions, please contact the Energy Star HelpDesk.
Mar. 12, 2014
The Southern Review of Legislative & Regulatory Actions, published by the U.S. Army's Regional Environmental and Energy Office--Southern (REEO-S), is designed to provide current information to environmental decision makers, planners, and program managers regarding environmental actions and events throughout Federal EPA Region 4 (Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee). Information listed may be relevant to the U.S. Army and other Military Services' activities and operations. See attached.
Mar. 7, 2014
On 14 April 2014 this forum will be held at the National Academy of Sciences building in Washington D.C. The focus of the forum is best-practices for sharing facilities among Federal agencies or their components. The speakers will share successful strategies that their agencies have used to implement facility-sharing operations. The presenters will discuss technical, organizational, cultural, and financial aspects involved in sharing federal agencies, as well as their implementation efforts, results, and lessons learned. Click here for more info. Click here to register.
Mar. 7, 2014
Celebrate National Groundwater Awareness Week by checking out information on what you can do to protect your groundwater.
Mar. 6, 2014
EPA finalized changes to the effluent limitations guidelines and standards for the Construction and Development point source category. These changes are being promulgated pursuant to a settlement agreement to resolve litigation. This final rule withdraws the numeric discharge standards, which are currently stayed, and changes several of the non-numeric provisions of the existing rule. This final rule is effective on 5 May 2014.
Feb. 28, 2014
Winter 2013 edition of the DoD Chesapeake Bay Program Journal, published quarterly and sponsored by the DOD/Navy Chesapeake Bay Program Office. See attached.
Feb. 24, 2014
In EPA Region 9, Pollution Prevention Grants are available to state agencies and federally-recognized tribes, territories and possessions in California, Arizona, Hawaii, Nevada, and the Pacific Islands. PPG also funds testing of innovative P2 approaches and technologies. The deadline for proposals is 20 March 2014.
Feb. 24, 2014
The Green Building Advisory Committee provides advice to GSA as a mandatory Federal advisory committee. This notice provides an opportunity for individuals to present their qualifications and apply for a seat on the Committee. GSA will ask former Committee members to re-apply if they are interested in continuing to serve on the Committee. GSA will review all applications and determine which candidates are likely to add the most value to the Committee based on the criteria outlined in this notice. See the official announcement for details on nominee requirements and membership duties.
Feb. 14, 2014
The Northern Review of Legislative & Regulatory Actions provides current information on government affairs, energy and environment relevant to Department of Defense interests in the 22 states and territories in Federal Regions 1, 2, 3 and 5. The Review is intended to be a tool useful to DoD and Army leaders, planners, and program managers in carrying out their responsibilities. The Northern Review of Legislative & Regulatory Actions monitors and targets proposed and final regulations and legislation that may affect Army or DoD operations. See attached.
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