EPA to Reward Environmental Performance

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency today elevated its efforts to work with businesses which have achieved a higher environmental performance level beyondlegal compliance requirements. Under the National Environmental Performance Track program, the agency will reward companies which exceed minimum regulatory requirements and take extrasteps to reduce and prevent pollution. These companies are setting the pace in demonstrating ways to increase protection of public health and the environment."Businesses that participate in the National Environmental Performance Track program are going beyond compliance to better protect public health and theenvironment," said EPA Administrator Carol M. Browner. "The Performance Track opportunity will be offered to companies which have demonstrated true leadershipand deserve the benefits. We're highlighting such companies as models of a higher level of environmental achievement."The Performance Track is intended for top performing facilities and companies with a proven record of regulatory compliance, an operational EnvironmentalManagement System, and a demonstrated commitment to continued improvement and outreach to the local community and the public.