EPA Unveils Preliminary 2023 Toxics Release Inventory Data
A Comprehensive Dive Into National Chemical Releases
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has released the preliminary Toxics Release Inventory (TRI) data for 2023, providing significant insight into chemical releases, waste management, and pollution prevention measures undertaken during the said year. This latest update includes more than 20,000 federal and industrial facilities across the country and introduces 21 new chemicals to the TRI list, including nine perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).
Key insights from the 2023 Preliminary Data
The latest 2023 data was reported by facilities that produce, process, or otherwise use substances on the TRI chemical list above the threshold quantities during the year. The data provides the public with key information on the geographical locations of TRI facilities, the variety and quantity of managed chemicals, and the latest pollution prevention activities. Take note that the data is in a raw format, and while it has undergone initial automated quality checks, additional quality tests are underway to identify possible reporting errors.
PFAS: A Special Highlight in The 2023 Preliminary Data
The year 2023 marks the fourth year that PFAS, today’s headline in chemical safety, is included in the TRI data following the requirements set under the 2020 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The preliminary data reveals that EPA received 156 TRI reporting forms for 44 discrete PFAS from 56 facilities, with an astounding 1,548,142 pounds of produced-related waste of PFAS managed throughout 2023.
| Key Environmental Issue: | PFAS |
|---|---|
| Total number of discrete PFAS: | 44 |
| Pounds of production-related waste of PFAS: | 1,548,142 |
Dedication to Pesticide Safety and Transparency
With the intent to enhance the transparency of chemical safety data, EPA plans to release a revised and more detailed dataset by October, soon followed by the 2023 TRI National Analysis expected early 2025. This enhancement of data also supports a recent mandate by EPA to remove prior exemption rules for PFAS reporting even at low concentrations, thereby encouraging comprehensive reporting of PFAS, starting with the 2024 TRI data.
Securing Access to Information
The preliminary TRI data is available on EPA’s Envirofacts and TRI websites for download, with further datasets expected to be available by August 7, 2024.
Unraveling the complexities of Pesticide Safety
This latest release of preliminary TRI data underscores the importance of a systematic approach to pesticide safety. Understanding the types and amounts of chemicals, especially potentially dangerous ones like PFAS, in use can help guide safer environmental practices and policy melioration. It also provides a platform for the public and industry to understand the trends and impacts associated with chemical use and release. EPA’s ongoing efforts to ensure data quality and transparency further support this important public information initiative.
Remember, pesticide safety begins with informed decisions. Keep up to date with the latest TRI reports and make safety your priority. Be sure to share this information with others to raise awareness about the importance of chemical safety.
