2020 Science Matters Stories
EPA’s Dr. Johanna Nyffeler Awarded 2020 Young Researcher Lush Prize for Efforts to Limit Animal Testing
December 15, 2020 - EPA Postdoctoral grantee Dr. Johanna Nyffeler has been awarded a 2020 Young Researcher Lush Prize in recognition of her efforts to decrease the use of animal testing. Dr. Nyffeler's research uses new approach methods (NAMs) to rapidly test the biological activity of environmental chemicals in human-derived cells. Read EPA’s Dr. Johanna Nyffeler Awarded 2020 Young Researcher Lush Prize for Efforts to Limit Animal Testing.
Answering the Call: EnviroAtlas Team Supports Teachers and Educators during the COVID-19 Pandemic
December 15, 2020 - EPA’s EnviroAtlas team has been helping educators adjust to teaching in the virtual environment. The team worked with teachers and education-focused organizations to not only get educators up to speed on EPA’s existing online educational resources, but also to adapt lesson plans for complete virtual use to meet the new demand. Read Answering the Call: EnviroAtlas Team Supports Teachers and Educators during the COVID-19 Pandemic.
EPA Releases Updated SeqAPASS – Version 5.0 – With Improved Functionality
December 15, 2020 -EPA has released the fifth iteration of the Sequence Alignment to Predict Across Species Susceptibility (SeqAPASS) online tool. SeqAPASS was developed to understand how different chemicals interact with organisms at the molecular level and across species. EPA researchers continue to improve the tool in response to user feedback. Read EPA Releases Updated SeqAPASS – Version 5.0 – With Improved Functionality.
50 Years of Drinking Water Research
December 2, 2020 - For nearly 50 years, EPA scientists have done research to protect America’s drinking water. EPA researchers continue to meet new challenges, such as algal toxins from harmful algal blooms (HABs) and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Read 50 Years of Drinking Water Research.
Reflecting on 50 Years of EPA Research: Dr. Mike Slimak
December 2, 2020 - Dr. Mike Slimak is the National Program Director of the Sustainable and Healthy Communities Research Program in EPA’s Office of Research and Development. In honor of EPA’s 50th anniversary, Mike is reflecting on his career at EPA which began in 1978. Read Reflecting on 50 Years of EPA Research: Dr. Mike Slimak.
EPA Researchers Study Aerosol Transport and Mitigation Measures to Reduce COVID-19 Transmission
November 10, 2020 - As we learn more about the virus that causes COVID-19, there is mounting evidence that aerosols are playing a role in transmission of the disease. EPA researchers are looking at how aerosols spread indoors and investigating technologies that could reduce the amount of virus transmitted. Read EPA Researchers Study Aerosol Transport and Mitigation Measures to Reduce COVID-19 Transmission.
EPA Scientists Model Human Systems to Understand Children's Environmental Health Impacts
November 10, 2020 - Children’s health is at the forefront of EPA’s research to protect human health and the environment. In order to reduce potential developmental disorders caused by chemical exposure, EPA researchers are using virtual tissue models to understand a chemical’s effects on developing embryos. This information will help fill data gaps associated with a chemical’s hazard profile and inform efforts to predict chemical effects. Read EPA Scientists Model Human Systems to Understand Children's Environmental Health Impacts.
EPA Develops National Picture of Underground Storage Tank Facilities and Leaking Underground Storage Tank Sites
November 10, 2020 - In the United States, there are more than 500,000 underground storage tanks (USTs) storing petroleum and other hazardous substances. If not properly managed, leaks or spills of these substances can contaminate the surrounding soil and groundwater. EPA created a web-based mapping tool that locates nearby USTs to help states prioritize clean-ups and assess potential vulnerabilities to human health and the environment. Read EPA Develops National Picture of Underground Storage Tank Facilities and Leaking Underground Storage Tank Sites.
Helping to Engage Proctor Creek Community Members as Stewards of Their Watershed
October 27, 2020 - Proctor Creek is an impaired waterway in Atlanta, Georgia, that experiences several overlapping environmental issues. EPA recently collaborated with Proctor Creek residents and stakeholders to develop the Proctor Creek Watershed Story Map, which provide resources and share important information about the Proctor Creek watershed and the role that green infrastructure can play in the community. Read Helping to Engage Proctor Creek Community Members as Stewards of Their Watershed.
Improving Public Access to EPA’s Science
October 14, 2020 -EPA has recently improved two online resources for accessing the science produced by EPA scientists and engineers. The resources are the Science Inventory, a searchable database of more than 80,000 EPA reports, publications, and presentations, and the Science Models and Research Tools (SMaRT) Search inventory of tools that includes ORD science products. Read Improving Public Access to EPA’s Science.
EPA Model Shows Potential in Unraveling the Mystery of Lightning’s Impact on Air Quality
September 28, 2020 -How does lightning contribute to air pollution? EPA researchers simulated the impact lightning has on ground-level ozone across the continental United States. This research will ultimately aid states in efforts to help protect our air quality. Read EPA Model Shows Potential in Unraveling the Mystery of Lightning’s Impact on Air Quality.
EPA Researchers Design Virtual Reality Software to Prepare Responders for Sampling in A Hazardous Environment
September 28, 2020 - When it comes to preparing for environmental sampling after a biological incident, nothing beats hands-on experience. EPA researchers developed virtual reality software for emergency responders to practice environmental sampling in a simulated real-world setting and get the firsthand experience needed to ensure they’re ready if disaster strikes. Read EPA Researchers Design Virtual Reality Software to Prepare Responders for Sampling in A Hazardous Environment.
DIY Air Sensor Now Available for Use by Educators and Citizen Scientists
September 14, 2020 -Interested in a DIY project that will help you learn about air quality? EPA researchers have published instructions for building a portable, battery-powered air sensor, called the AirMapper, which can be used for educational outreach activities. Read DIY Air Sensor Now Available for Use by Educators and Citizen Scientists.
EPA Researchers are Working to Determine the Best Ways to Clean Up Fentanyl Contaminated Surfaces
September 14, 2020 - Emergency responders and hazmat teams are concerned about potential exposure to fentanyl while responding to opioid related incidents. EPA researchers are working closely with EPA responders to ensure that federal, state, tribal, and local responders and hazmat teams are prepared with the best science to respond to incidents that involve synthetic opioids, including fentanyl. Read EPA Researchers are Working to Determine the Best Ways to Clean Up Fentanyl Contaminated Surfaces.
EPA Researchers Evaluate Multiple Sampling Protocols for Detection of Bacillus Anthracis in an Urban Area
September 14, 2020 - A hazardous material, including a chemical or biological agent, released into the environment can impact human and aquatic health long after the event. EPA researchers investigated the length of time that Bacillus anthacis surrogates could be detected on various outdoor surfaces and how weather conditions, particularly rainfall, play a role in the spread of hazardous contamination. This research will help responders better understand when areas are safe for reentry after an incident. Read EPA Researchers Evaluate Multiple Sampling Protocols for Detection of Bacillus Anthracis in an Urban Area.
EPA Researchers Expand Wide-Area Decontamination Research to Ships and Coastal Areas
September 1, 2020 -EPA researchers recently participated in a vessel decontamination demonstration to study how to respond to a wide-area release of a biological agent in a ship, boat, or coastal area. This project builds on the knowledge generated through previous projects that have looked at environments with unique challenges for decontamination, such as a subway car or building. Read EPA Researchers Expand Wide-Area Decontamination Research to Ships and Coastal Areas.
EPA Works with States, Tribes, and Communities to Protect Public Health and the Environment
September 1, 2020 -Throughout its history, EPA has collaborated with external parties to address high priority environmental and public health challenges. Collaborations with states, tribes, and communities have provided the research and technical support to address local environmental issues. Read EPA Works with States, Tribes, and Communities to Protect Public Health and the Environment.
CyAN App Used for Early Detection of Harmful Algal Blooms in Communities Across the Nation
September 1, 2020 - EPA developed the Cyanobacteria Assessment Network mobile app as an early warning indicator system for harmful algal blooms in U.S. freshwater systems. Since it’s release, the app has helped communities across the nation monitor harmful algal blooms and protect public health. Read CyAN App Used for Early Detection of Harmful Algal Blooms in Communities Across the Nation.
EPA Research Continues to Provide Vital Research to Support Toxic Substances Control Act
September 1, 2020 - EPA scientists are working to ensure the Agency’s implementation of the Toxic Substances Control Act is supported by sound science. These efforts include the development of New Approach Methods for alternative toxicity testing; implementing approaches for chemical pre-prioritization; improving exposure assessment for new and existing chemicals; and supporting ongoing chemical assessments. Read EPA Research Continues to Provide Vital Research to Support Toxic Substances Control Act.
After 50 Years, EPA Researchers Are Still Using WASP Water Quality Model
August 18, 2020 - The Water Quality Analysis Simulation Program (WASP) is one of the most widely used water quality models in the world. WASP was developed in the private sector but was released publicly in 1981. Since its public release, EPA scientists have been improving and refining the model so it can be used for a wide variety of water quality prediction contexts. Read After 50 Years, EPA Researchers Are Still Using WASP Water Quality Model.
The Legacy of EPA’s Acid Rain Research
August 18, 2020 - In the 1980s, acid rain was a huge environmental problem. Through their work in the national effort to combat acid rain, EPA scientists helped usher in a new chapter of environmental science. Read The Legacy of EPA’s Acid Rain Research.
Reflecting on 50 Years of EPA Research: Dr. Jerry Blancato
August 18, 2020 - Our 50th anniversary commemoration continues with an interview with EPA's Dr. Jerry Blancato. Dr. Blancato, Director of the Office of Science Information Management in EPA’s Office of Research and Development, reflects on his career at EPA which began in 1985. Read Reflecting on 50 Years of EPA Research: Dr. Jerry Blancato.
EPA at 50: Celebrating A Rich History of State Partnership
August 18, 2020 - EPA researchers have always worked with the states to respond to ongoing environmental and public health challenges. More recently, EPA has made working directly with the states an explicit part of its strategic research planning through a partnership with the Environmental Council of the States. Read EPA at 50: Celebrating A Rich History of State Partnership.
Reflecting on 50 years of EPA Research: Dr. Jennifer Orme-Zavaleta
August 4, 2020 - In honor of EPA’s 50th anniversary, Dr. Jennifer Orme-Zavaleta is discussing her career with the Agency, which started in 1981. Read about what EPA research was like in its early years and how she hopes it will progress in the years to come. Read Reflecting on 50 years of EPA Research: Dr. Jennifer Orme-Zavaleta.
Innovation and Teamwork to Address PFAS Treatment
August 4, 2020 - EPA has a dedicated, full-time team focused on how to destroy PFAS-contaminated media and waste. The PFAS Innovative Treatment Team is assessing how well current and emerging PFAS destruction methods work and their potential to create harmful byproducts. This work will ultimately help states, tribes, and communities deal with various sources of PFAS waste, including unused fire retardants, contaminated sewage, and contaminated landfill leachate. Read Innovation and Teamwork to Address PFAS Treatment.
Measuring Ecosystem Health: 50 Years of Science to Protect America’s Ecosystems
August 4, 2020 - For nearly 50 years, EPA has strived to protect and restore the quality of our nation’s waters. These efforts have evolved over time into the National Aquatic Resource Surveys (NARS). The NARS began in the early 2000s as a collaboration between EPA, states, and tribes to provide the public and decision-makers with improved environmental information on the quality of the nation's coastal waters, lakes and reservoirs, rivers and streams, and wetlands. Read Measuring Ecosystem Health: 50 Years of Science to Protect America’s Ecosystems.
Supporting Small Businesses Through the EPA SBIR Program
August 4, 2020 - Small businesses are an essential part of the U.S. economy. For nearly 40 years, EPA’s Small Business Innovation Research program has supported small businesses to develop novel technologies that promote clean and safe water, improved air quality, land revitalization, homeland security, sustainable materials management and safer chemicals. Read Supporting Small Businesses Through the EPA SBIR Program.
EPA Researchers Recruiting Participants for Study to Develop SARS-CoV-2 Salivary Antibody Assay
July 22, 2020 - EPA researchers are adapting an existing salivary antibody test for waterborne pathogens to test for antibodies to SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. The salivary antibody test would be less invasive than typical serum-based antibody tests and has the potential to enable low-cost population monitoring. Researchers are recruiting participants who are age 18 or older to participate in the study. Read EPA Researchers Recruiting Participants for Study to Develop SARS-CoV-2 Salivary Antibody Assay.
From East to West, EnviroAtlas Builds Bridges by Making Data Accessible
July 22, 2020 - New fine-scale environmental and ecosystem services data are available for LA, DC, and St. Louis through EPA’s EnviroAtlas. EnviroAtlas is an interactive and free web-based tool that combines maps, analysis tools, fact sheets, and downloadable data to help inform state and local policy and planning decisions. EPA is working with the three new communities to share how they can incorporate the data into their work. Read From East to West, EnviroAtlas Builds Bridges by Making Data Accessible.
EPA Researchers Working to Improve Life-Cycle Assessment Capabilities for Communities
July 22, 2020 - Sustainable materials management is a systemic approach to using and reusing materials more productively over their entire life cycles. EPA researchers developed a family of models to help government agencies, businesses, and other groups make choices that support sustainable materials management in the most cost-effective way. EPA is partnering with the state of Georgia to create a version of the model specifically tailored for use by towns, counties, and communities within the state. Read EPA Researchers Working to Improve Life-Cycle Assessment Capabilities for Communities.
EPA Researchers Collaborate with States to Assess the Health of the Coastal Waters of the Great Lakes
July 7, 2020 - This summer, EPA researchers are helping conduct the National Coastal Condition Assessment of the nearshore waters of the Great Lakes. Data from the assessment will help states decide how to protect areas in good condition and restore areas that have suffered environmental damage. Read EPA Researchers Collaborate with States to Assess the Health of the Coastal Waters of the Great Lakes.
EPA Scientists Develop Method for Estimating Recreational Visitors and Value of Cape Cod Estuaries
July 6, 2020 - Many people travel to Cape Cod for its beaches, but smaller coastal areas, such as estuaries, are also valued by visitors and residents. EPA researchers have developed a new method to study the number of visitors to Cape Cod’s estuaries. Understanding the social and economic value of recreation for an estuary provides beach managers with insight into the benefits of investing resources in recovering an estuarine area. Read EPA Scientists Develop Method for Estimating Recreational Visitors and Value of Cape Cod Estuaries.
Mapping Underwater Vegetation in the Delaware Estuary
July 6, 2020 - Underwater vegetation can be used as a sentinel for assessing the overall health of an ecosystem. In the Delaware Estuary, EPA is working with local partners to better understand the extent to which development in the surrounding area may be impacting the health of the estuary. The data from this project will be used to create a comprehensive map of submerged aquatic vegetation throughout the Delaware Estuary. Read Mapping Underwater Vegetation in the Delaware Estuary.
Partnering to Share EPA Expertise Around the World through the Embassy Science Fellows Program
June 22, 2020 - EPA has a long history of partnering with countries around the world to share scientific expertise and resources. Over the years, EPA has sent more than 100 EPA staff to U.S. Embassies and Consulates around the world through the Department of State’s Embassy Science Fellows program. Read Partnering to Share EPA Expertise Around the World through the Embassy Science Fellows Program.
EPA Researchers Provide Data and Information to Cleanup a Mercury Contaminated Site
June 22, 2020 - In Harrison, New Jersey, an industrial complex known as the Vo-Toys site was found to be contaminated with elevated levels of mercury. EPA scientists helped the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection determine what risk the facility posed to the community, especially in the case of a fire. EPA provided education to first responders about environmental and health dangers the site may pose and helped create an evacuation plan for the surrounding community in the case of a fire. Read EPA Researchers Provide Data and Information to Cleanup a Mercury Contaminated Site.
Greener Cleanup Tool Reduces Environmental Footprint and Provides Comparable Measures
June 22, 2020 - Cleaning up contaminated sites improves environmental and public health conditions, but cleanup activities also use energy, water, and other resources. EPA scientists developed 14 greener cleanup metrics that may be used to quantify specific portions of the environmental footprint of cleanup activities. Tracking these metrics will help create best management practices for greener cleanups. Read Greener Cleanup Tool Reduces Environmental Footprint and Provides Comparable Measures.
Understanding Chemical Hazards in Occupational Settings: EPA’s HTTK R Package Update
June 22, 2020 - EPA scientists have updated the High-Throughput Toxicokinetics (HTTK) R Package. The tool allows users to determine where chemicals go in the body much faster than traditional methods. The new update includes more inhalation models which will fill an important gap in the understanding of how chemicals interact with the body. Read Understanding Chemical Hazards in Occupational Settings: EPA’s HTTK R Package Update.
EPANET 2.2.0: An EPA and Water Community Collaboration
June 22, 2020 - Protecting and maintaining drinking water distribution systems is crucial to ensuring high quality drinking water. EPA is releasing EPANET 2.2.0, a new version of the user-friendly software application for modeling the hydraulic and water quality behavior of distribution systems. It represents a new, community-based open source software approach to maintaining and advancing EPANET. Read EPANET 2.2.0: An EPA and Water Community Collaboration.
EPA Educational Tool Inspires MIT Team to Develop DIY Air Sensor Kit for Hawai’i Educators
June 8, 2020 - Educators at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) created a new version of a particle meter to help teachers in Hawai'i teach students about air quality and engineering. The sensor kit and its assembly instructions grew out of a larger, EPA-funded STAR grant project led by MIT and local community partner The Kohala Center, an independent community-based research center on Hawai'i’s Big Island, to monitor harmful pollutants emitting from Hawai'i’s Kīlauea volcano. Read EPA Educational Tool Inspires MIT Team to Develop DIY Air Sensor Kit for Hawai’i Educators.
ECOTOX Continues to be a Valuable Tool for EPA’s Ecological Risk Assessments
June 8, 2020 - Researchers, risk assessors, and regulators need quick access to reliable and up-to-date information about how chemicals affect ecologically relevant species. The latest version of EPA’s ECOTOX database makes it easier than ever to navigate and explore chemical environmental toxicity data for over 12,000 chemicals and species, including aquatic life, terrestrial plants, and wildlife. Read ECOTOX Continues to be a Valuable Tool for EPA’s Ecological Risk Assessments.
How Science is Protecting the Air We Breathe
June 8, 2020 - The United States continues to be a leader in clean air progress, reducing the six criteria air pollutants by 74 percent over the last 50 years. EPA scientists have provided critical research over the years on how air pollution affects health and the environment. Read How Science is Protecting the Air We Breathe.
EPA’s SARS-CoV-2 Research: Assessing Virus Levels in Sewage for Community Level Screening
June 4, 2020 - EPA researchers are working with partners in Cincinnati, Ohio, to develop methods for detecting SARS-CoV-2 in wastewater. Preliminary research indicates that monitoring wastewater for the presence of the genetic marker of SARS-CoV-2 may be useful as a sensitive early indicator of low levels of infections in the community. Having an early warning system to alert public health officials about infection could be helpful to direct resources to the communities that might need it most. Read EPA’s SARS-CoV-2 Research: Assessing Virus Levels in Sewage for Community Level Screening.
EPA Tool Helps Guide Coastal Communities to Consider Consequences of Complex Environmental Challenges
June 4, 2020 - Areas like Southeast Florida are considered especially vulnerable to the effects of sea level rise. The Southeast Florida Regional Climate Change Compact aims to assist communities within the southeast Florida region with their resilience planning challenges. EPA scientists assisted the group with hosting resilience planning workshops focused on guiding the development of action plans to combat the community’s risks and fears. Read EPA Tool Helps Guide Coastal Communities to Consider Consequences of Complex Environmental Challenges.
TEMPO: A New Era of Air Quality Monitoring from Space
May 19, 2020 - Satellites are increasingly being used to monitor air quality and the movement of pollution in the air we breathe. EPA researchers are working with partners to use satellites to examine air quality across North America. The project will allow researchers to observe pollutant emissions and see how pollution episodes evolve over hours, days, and weeks, interacting with weather patterns as they move across urban environments. Read TEMPO: A New Era of Air Quality Monitoring from Space.
Researchers Assess Roadside Vegetation Barriers with a Suite of Air Monitors
May 19, 2020 - EPA researchers are using innovative air monitoring approaches to learn more about how solid and vegetation barriers reduce exposure to harmful roadside air pollution. The work could benefit the health of millions of Americans who live, work, and go to school near major highways or other transportation facilities such as airports or rail yards. Read Researchers Assess Roadside Vegetation Barriers with a Suite of Air Monitors.
Supporting Innovations to Reduce Nitrogen Pollution from Septic Systems
May 19, 2020 - In some marine communities on the East Coast, conventional septic systems are not designed to treat nitrogen at levels protective of local water quality and the coastal environment. The winner of EPA’s Advanced Septic System Nitrogen Sensor Challenge designed a low-cost nitrogen sensor that shows great promise in helping address excess nitrogen and protecting the marine environment. Read Supporting Innovations to Reduce Nitrogen Pollution from Septic Systems.
Swimming Upstream: Research to Protect Salmon Habitat in the Columbia River
May 19, 2020 - Understanding how fish navigate in rivers and streams is vital to the management of important keystone species like salmon. EPA scientists in Corvallis, Oregon, are creating detailed digital models of local river systems and tracking populations of salmon and steelhead as they migrate upstream. This research is shared with states, tribes, and university scientists to help develop management strategies for these fish species. Read Swimming Upstream: Research to Protect Salmon Habitat in the Columbia River.
EPA Researchers Are Evaluating SARS-CoV-2 in the Environment
May 6, 2020 - Reducing the risk of exposure to SARS-CoV-2 relies on effective cleaning and disinfection, along with public health strategies like testing and social distancing. EPA researchers are assessing the use of EPA-approved disinfectants against SARS-CoV-2 on surfaces and objects that are difficult to disinfect, like fabric and other soft or porous materials. This research will help states, tribes, local, and territorial governments, and can also guide homeowners, business owners, and others to reduce their risk of exposure. Read EPA Researchers Are Evaluating SARS-CoV-2 in the Environment.
Study Explores Ways to Improve Accuracy of Air Sensors
May 6, 2020 - Researchers and the public are using air sensors to fill the gaps in understanding local air quality. Despite the opportunities these air sensors provide to measure air pollutants, questions regarding their operations and performance capabilities remain. EPA scientists are working to improve the accuracy of sensors by generating mathematical equations to ‘correct’ the sensor data. Read Study Explores Ways to Improve Accuracy of Air Sensors.
Throwing Shade: Exploring the Benefits of Trees
May 6, 2020 - Arbor Day is devoted to recognizing the aesthetic and ecological value of trees. EPA researchers are adding scientific rigor to help us better understand the true value of trees. Read Throwing Shade: Exploring the Benefits of Trees.
May 28 Webinar on Air Quality and Healthy Hearts: Progress and Remaining Challenges
May 6, 2020 - Research shows that exposure to airborne fine particulate matter (PM2.5) is associated with adverse cardiovascular health events―particularly among those with pre-existing conditions. Join our May 28 webinar that will highlight EPA research and new findings on the impacts of air pollution on the cardiovascular system. Read May 28 Webinar on Air Quality and Healthy Hearts: Progress and Remaining Challenges.
50 Years of Earth Day with EPA Researchers
April 20, 2020 - Need some Earth Day inspiration? EPAers discussed why they dedicated their careers to protecting the environment and how they are safely celebrating Earth Day this year. Read 50 Years of Earth Day with EPA Researchers.
Celebrating 50 Years of Earth Day through Greening EPA Facilities
April 21, 2020 - Earth Day is an opportunity to think of ways we can protect the environment. As part of that effort, EPA labs and facilities are implementing a range of strategies to reduce their environmental impacts, from improving energy conservation to planting pollinator gardens. Learn about some of these initiatives at EPA labs and facilities around the country. Read Celebrating 50 Years of Earth Day through Greening EPA Facilities.
Celebrating Women's History Month
March 25, 2020 - March is Women's History Month. Some of EPA’s amazing women currently working to protect human health and the environment shared their advice and lessons learned. Read Celebrating Women's History Month.
EPA is Moving Towards the Future of Chemical Assessments with New Approach Methods
March 31, 2020 - EPA scientists are continuing to advance chemical safety research with the use of New Approach Methods. These methods provide information on chemical hazard and risk assessment while avoiding the use of animals. EPA is committed to drastically reducing the use of animals in chemical testing while still fulfilling its mission to protect human health and the environment. Read EPA is Moving Towards the Future of Chemical Assessments with New Approach Methods.
The Species Sensitivity Distribution Toolbox: A New Tool to Identify and Protect Vulnerable Species
March 17, 2020 - EPA scientists have developed the Species Sensitivity Distribution (SSD) Toolbox to help assessors determine potential risks from chemical exposure. The tool considers the range of sensitivities among different organisms and makes for quicker, more consistent statistical analyses to identify chemical concentrations in surface waters that may harm the most vulnerable affected species. Read The Species Sensitivity Distribution Toolbox: A New Tool to Identify and Protect Vulnerable Species.
Using Cost-Effective Tools for Assessment of Infiltration at Green Infrastructure Stormwater Management Sites
March 18, 2020 - Green Infrastructure can help manage the stress of excess stormwater on water treatment systems in urban areas. EPA researchers are working with communities in Kansas and Connecticut to test devices that track stormwater through soil. This work will provide a better understanding of the life-cycle costs and performance of green infrastructure. Read Using Cost-Effective Tools for Assessment of Infiltration at Green Infrastructure Stormwater Management Sites.
EPA Researchers Help Water Systems Keep Lead out of Drinking Water
March 3, 2020 - If a system has lead service lines, limiting corrosion is a necessary step to reduce lead exposure from drinking water. EPA and others use predictive solubility models to try and help drinking water systems pick the right corrosion control treatment that fits their system’s individual needs. EPA researchers recently looked at how well these models were predicting what is happening in the real world. Read EPA Researchers Help Water Systems Keep Lead out of Drinking Water.
Putting out the Fire: 50 Years of Science to Protect America’s Water
February 20, 2020 - Over the past 50 years, EPA research has played a key role in protecting America's waters. Learn how EPA researchers helped the Agency extinguish an era marked by burning rivers and how they continue to tackle complex challenges to our water resources today.
Read Putting out the Fire: 50 Years of Science to Protect America’s Water.
Study Examines if Long-Term Exposure to Ozone Impacts the Cardiovascular System
February 20, 2020 - Extensive scientific evidence has documented ozone’s effects on the lungs—but does ozone exposure have an impact on the heart and vascular system as well? An EPA-supported study, called MESA Air Next Stage, looks at the relationship between ground level ozone and the changes over time in the health of arteries that feed both the brain and heart.
Read Study Examines if Long-Term Exposure to Ozone Impacts the Cardiovascular System.
STEM Outreach Provides Opportunities for Students and Teachers
February 20, 2020 - Many EPA researchers credit their teachers with inspiring their love of science and engineering. Today, our researchers are passing this along to the next generation through a variety of outreach activities with teachers and students of all ages. Read STEM Outreach Provides Opportunities for Students and Teachers.
EPA Researchers Partner with Cincinnati’s Cooper Creek Collaborative to Improve Water Quality
January 28, 2020 - Impervious surfaces, like most buildings and pavement, can’t absorb rain water as well as forests and other natural environments. This can create water quality issues for many urban areas due to stormwater runoff. To help with this issue, EPA researchers in Cincinnati, Ohio are partnering with local organizations and other federal agencies to retrofit urban stormwater infrastructure networks with technology to improve water quality and moderate flows in the Cooper Creek Watershed. Read the article EPA Researchers Partner with Cincinnati’s Cooper Creek Collaborative to Improve Water Quality.
EPA Science at 50: Progress for a Stronger Future
January 22, 2020 - This year marks EPA’s 50th Anniversary. Science has played an integral part in the agency’s many successes in advancing its mission to protect public health and safeguard the natural environment. Read EPA Science at 50: Progress for a Stronger Future.
A Year in Review: Progress on the Research Goal of the Federal Lead Action Plan
January 22, 2020 - EPA researchers have been working on various aspects of lead research to support the Federal Action Plan to Reduce Childhood Lead Exposures and Associated Health Impacts. As part of this work, researchers are using a range of scientific data and tools to better understand the key drivers of blood lead levels and reduce childhood lead exposures. Read A Year in Review: Progress on the Research Goal of the Federal Lead Action Plan.
EPA Researchers Investigate the Effectiveness of Systems to Remove Per‐ and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances from Drinking Water
January 22, 2020 - EPA is making extensive efforts to help communities address per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in drinking water. As part of this work, EPA researchers tested several off-the-shelf, commercially available technologies to determine the products’ capability of decreasing PFAS levels in drinking water. Read EPA Researchers Investigate the Effectiveness of Point‐of‐use/Point‐of‐entry Systems to Remove Per‐ and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances from Drinking Water.
Understanding Indoor Air Quality During Wildfires
January 22, 2020 - After wildfire smoke impacted the city of Missoula, Montana in the summer of 2017, the local health department was inundated with inquiries about the risks of smoke, actions to take, and how to create clean air spaces indoors. As a result, the Missoula Health Department teamed up with EPA researchers to place low-cost air sensors throughout the city to learn more about how air cleaning and ventilation practices impact indoor air quality during wildfire events. EPA is also evaluating the effectiveness of portable air cleaners and air filtration systems under simulated pollution levels found during wildfires. Read Understanding Indoor Air Quality During Wildfires.