OCR error (C:\Conversion\JobRoot\00000CDE\tiff\20013J6M.tif): Unspecified error
-------
The mission of tlie
ILS. Environmental Protection Agency
iff to protect human health and to
safeguard the natural environment
— air, water, and land —
upon which life depends.
-------
United States Environmental Protection Agency
EPA was born 30 years ago at a time when rivers caught fire and cities were hidden under
dense clouds of smoke. We've made remarkable progress since then. But we can't rest on our
success.
Our mission to protect the environment, and to protect public health, is a mission without
end. New challenges loom over the horizon as surely as the new day.
We must continue our work to ensure that with each new dawn, the sun shines through
clear skies and upon clean waters—and all our families enjoy the blessings of good health.
Carol Browner, Administrator
During our 30 year journey, we have worked to create new partnerships with other
government agencies and public-interest groups. We've reached out to the public with education
and information programs designed to increase environmental literacy and to empower citizens to
make environmentally responsible choices in their daily lives.
In order to continue to reach our ongoing environmental challenges, all levels of
government, all sectors of society, and every citizen must help. All of us must share in the
responsibility for harmonizing human activities with the needs and constraints of nature. We invite
everyone who has not yet done so to join us in the challenging quest for a safe and healthy
environment.
We are proud to present you with this report which celebrates EPA's 30 year journey in
environmental protection.
John H. Hankinson, Jr.
Regional Administrator, EPA Southeast
-------
EP\ Southeast, created December 2. I9~0. serves t/ic eight
southeastern si ales of Alabama. Elorida. (Georgia. Kentucky;
Mi,roblems.
Therefore, effective solutions ivill re(/uire that ire ivork more
closely than ever ivith local and state governments and our
citizens to develop successful environmental management
strategies.
EPA Southeast envisions a 21st century in irhich healthy
and economically secure people sustain, and are sustained
by. a healthy environment. JJ I/He ire're proud oj lite
progress we've made, ire still hare far to go. JJe're
committed to working harder than ever to ensure that
nature's activities and human activities can exist in
harmony—side by side.
Table of Contents
(Mean Air
(Mean \\atei
(Mean Land
6
10
Livable Communities 14
I lealthv Ecosystems
Healthy Planet
Future Challenges 26
Kids' Page
-------
s0iTiiKASTKi.<;io\ . 30 \i;\Ks oi i MIKONMIAIM I'Kocm.ss
-------
TheB
erica
"One can e.risl for days without food or water... but life without air is
measured in seconds. In seconds. "—Caskie Stinnet
EPA Southeast is dedicated to clean air for
every man. woman and child in our region.
Growth in our region lias been rapid and our
challenge is to work with our states, local
governments and communities to ensure that a
growing economy and clean air are goals in
concert—not in conflict.
In 1970. the Clean Yir Act (CAA) was passed
to improve air quality. While emissions of
pollutants such as carbon monoxide.
particulatcs and lead have been greatly
reduced, much work remains to be done to
reduce air pollution in our larger cities. The
1990 GAA Amendments were passed to
address our persistent air quality problems and
protect human health from the harmful effects
of air pollution. The Vniendments also signaled
a change from strictly pollution control to
pollution prevention through measures such as
the use of low sulfur fuels. Through these
regulations. EPA Southeast has worked with
our states to bring many highly populated
areas into compliance with clean air standards.
EPA Southeast is working to prevent and
minimize stationarv—industrial—emissions.
Stationary pollution is what we common!)
think of when we picture billowing
smokestacks. Based on our current Toxic
Release Inventory (THI). an EPA report on 600
designated air toxics, one major source of
stationary emissions in the Southeast is
produced l>\ coal burning power plants.
Currently, there are 89 coal burning power
plants in the Southeast releasing more than 1.4
million tons of nitrous oxide, sulfur dioxides
and partieulates into our air each day. Nitrogen
oxides are a major contributor to the formation
ol ground-le\el o/one (smog), acid rain and
ha/e. The combined effect of these emissions is
the daily equivalent of six million commuter
cars.
Mobile emissions from aulos. boats, planes.
buses and trains are another major source of
air pollution in the Southeast. Today, more
Americans than ever are dependent on
automobiles to take them to and from work.
Relocation into the suburbs and a lag in mass
transit development and commuter buy-in has
created longer, more environmentally costly
commutes. For example. Atlantans now have
an average workplace commute of 38 miles.
-------
SOI Illl Wl KM.ION •:«) M. VMS (»'I \\IKO\MI M VI l'l!O(,lil,SS
the longest in the country.
Atlanta also reported a
record breaking 70
consecutive "smog alert
Toxic Releases Inventory (TRI)
millions of pounds per year
700
600
500
400
300
200
100
0
1987
1992
1997
days in the summer of 1909.
putting it among the top ten
U.S. cities with the poorest
air quality. (A srnop; alert
day is declared when outdoor
air quality is so poor that it
can trigger health related
problems in individuals with
asthma or other respiratory
disorders.) Although we've
made progress in the
Southeast, we're now driving
almost 60 percent more than
in 1980. and experts fear
we 11 lose all our gains in
reducing tailpipe emissions
within the next decade.
EPA Southeast continues to
strive to regidate and
improve our region s air
quality, knowing that our
health is directly impacted In
the quality of the air we
breathe. The Center for
Disease Control (CDC) has
reported that in one 15 }ear
period, asthma rates for all
Americans have increased by
73 percent. Asthma now
affects more than 15 million
Americans, with children
being the most affected.
Children under 5 years of age
have suffered a 160 percent
increase in asthma rates, and
asthma is now the most
prevalent chronic disorder for
all children under the age of
17. Cancer, lung scarring and
other chronic respiratory
ailments can also be
attributed to poor air quality.
-------
Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT)
per year with projection
000
200
/'o/lll/d/l/l/t HIOII'l/l hilltop //('!/•
c.fxiin',1 — /xii IK nltii l\ inci
ri'/nc/i' linjjii' — on an ijiiiilih. l)<'a/>il(
on i lri cdicle/l
Geographically, we face a bio-
challenge regarding air
pollution in (he Southeast.
Wind currents and the jet
stream push pollutants
toward our region and
prevent those created within
our region from moving on.
Additionally, the Appalachian
Mountain Range and our
moist, warm air inhibit the
movement of polluted air out
of our region. We are at
greatest risk during our
wannest months, but air
pollution riskn really never go
away.
EPA Southeast, working with
our states, will continue to
implement air quality
standards, \\ith your help we
can be successful in attaining
clean air and better health
for even one.
Here's What You Can
Do lo Help Keep Our
Air Clean:
• Car pool, take mass transit,
or bike to irork.
• ll'ork at home.
• Combine errands and
conserve /rips.
• // you do drive, fuel up
after dark lo reduce Juel
evaporation at the pump.
• Conserve electricity
whenever possible.
s
Smoky Mountain Haze
Much of the phenoipifejawtt of the
white or brown haze ffafict; hovers
around the SnioMes (ibtews iWi
name) is actually mafft»f|le air
pollution. The
Smokies should be
miles, but because
(haze) the average V,
only 15 to 30 miles. |ipe is
caused when
pollution particles ins
Some of the light is a|
the particles and the Ij
scattered before it
observer. More
more light
reduces the clarity aa|i ^S0f of
what we see.
particularly tnie
conditions
with tiny water molft^&fe Sjanie
haze forming ptilataste ;«j&
emitted directly inte> IS&jA1' while
others are formed
the air
of tlie pollutants
have been linked
problems and
damage. To reduce J^Ss^^ we must
minimize
reduce emissions ,1
pollutants from veh^^, power
plants and <
sources.
-------
SOITIIKUST KIX.ION • 30 M.VKS OF I.N\ IKONMKN I \L I'KOCRKSS
,'v
-------
"When the well's dry, we know the worth of water." —Benjamin Franklin
\\ater—the very essence of life. It's a source of
sustenance, recreation, transportation and
livelihood. EPA Southeast recogni/es the
importance of water and the need to protect it.
Within the eight states that comprise EPA
Southeast—Alabama. Florida. Georgia.
Kentucky. Mississippi. North Carolina. South
Carolina and Tennessee—there are -461.216 miles
of rivers and streams. 18.000 miles of shoreline.
-t.(Ho.231 acres of lakes and numerous
underground sources of drinking water. Our
water resources are threatened by millions of
dil(use sources of pollutants, \\ater bodies receive
polluted runoff from agricultural lands.
residential areas, city streets, forests and airborne
pollutants that settle onto our land and into our
waters. Armed with Congressional legislation.
EPA has led the fight to restore and protect our
nations rivers, lakes and coastal wafers.
The Clean Water Act (CWA) was passed in f 972.
only two years alter EPA was established. This
legislation gave the Agency initial authorization
to reduce industrial, municipal and agricultural
discharges into public waters. The CWA provided
the strong regulatory guidance and financial
resources needed to clean up municipal sewage
and industrial waste discharges into our waters.
Bv f 987. significant progress had been made in
curbing impacts from these sources, and
awareness was growing regarding the threats
posed by pollutants from runoff. The f987
amendment to the C\\ A further expanded the
financial and technological tools necessarv to
address additional sources of water pollution.
Protecting our water resources directly impacts
each of us every day through the water we drink.
The Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) signed in
December 1974 created the first mandatory
national program to protect public health
through safe drinking water. The SD\\ A was
amended in 1996 to provide us comprehensive
protection from "source to tap. I nder the
SDWA. EPA has developed standards for 90
contaminates and established monitoring.
reporting, public notification and source water-
assessment requirements for public water
systems.
For more than 25 years, the SDWA has protected
the public health bv ensuring safe drinking water
for millions of Americans. Safe water is essential
for good health, and particularly for the health of
our children, the elderly and individuals with
increased susceptibility to illness. Today in the
-------
SOl'l III VSI HI (,l()\ « :{(} M \KSOI I \\ IKONMIM \l
l SS
Southeast more drinking water
"
systems than ever before are
meeting; all health based
standards, despite stricter
re quire i nen ts. As of January 1.
2000. 95 percent of the
population in the Southeast
was being served by a
regulated drinking water
system repotting no health
standards violat ions.
EPA Southeast's safe water
successes are due in large part
to the Agency s efforts to
establish networks and
partnerships between federal.
state and local governments.
drinking water utilities, system
operators and engineers.
scientists, healthcare providers.
community groups and the
public. Information sharing
empowers the public to lake a
more aetixe role in drinking-
water issues.
/./'I !*>L pioli't l\ oiii ini/i'i t /ri)///
f fur .s'(7/v/^r
In addition to educating and
empowering the public. EPA
Southeast has recognized the
need to provide expertise.
training, advisory services and
on-site/off-site assistance to
the HO.000 rural water
systems in the region. The
1996 SD\\ A amendments
created more complex
standards that challenged the
Agency and the rural water
systems to work together even
more closely.
EPA Southeast s Small System
Peer Review Program helps
rural water systems meet the
requirements of the 1996
SlJViA amendments. The
Program, which began in
Georgia in 1996. is an
innovative approach for
addressing environmental
performance of small drinking
water facilities through a
voluntary effort of self-
assessments, on-sile peer
reviews, evaluations arid
recommendations. The Small
System Peer Review Program
brings together a trained
network of experienced
drinking water personnel who
volunteer their time and
services to participating small
communities and Tribes. Since
its inception. Kentucky.
Mississippi and \irginia have
also initiated similar efforts.
and the Program has been
adopted by the I tiited South
and Eastern Tribes
representing 23 Xative
American Tribes from Maine
to Texas. Additionally, the
Program was recognized in
-------
\\ \ll It-SVI I IWINMM. \\ Ul I! IOI{ I \l
- \ I'UI SIDI \ll\l \l\\l) Ml
1999 with a Hammer Award
from the National Partnership
for Reinventing Government
for its innovative approach to
ensuring safe drinking water
throughout the Southeast.
EPA takes its responsibility to
protect our waters very
seriously, and our work is not
finished. The States in their
1998 reports to the Agency on
assessed waters stated that 48
percent of our streams and
rivers. 29 percent of our lakes.
26 percent of our estuaries and
39 percent of our coastal
shoreline have \\ater quality
problems. Many of these
problems are due to non-point
source pollution, (\on-point
source pollution—pollutants
that run off lands, roadways
and parking lots. This Upe of
pollution is indirect and not
pumped directly into
waterways from indnstiy.)
Non-point source pollution
drains pesticides, silt, metals.
bacteria, excessive nutrients.
oils and oxygen depleting
substances into waters that are
used for recreation and for
drinking. The importance of
preserving our water cannot be
overstated.
KPA Southeast recognizes the
important relationship between
our land and water and the
delicate balance between all
natural resources. Vie continue
to work to preserve and
conserve these precious
commodities for hit nre
generations of Americans.
Pigeon River: An EPA Southeast Success Story
In 1908, the Champion pulp and
paper mill was built along the
banks of the Pigeon River in
North Carolina, The mill uses
water from the river in its daily
operation and discharges its
wastewater back into the river.
When the mill began operation
more than 92 years ago there
was no EPA and no regulatory
mechanism to determine that the
river was too small to support
such a large industrial operation.
Because of the environmental
impact on the river, EPA
Southeast began regulating the
mill's operation and wastewater
discharges, resulting in major
improvements in water quality.
In 1985, EPA Southeast assumed
permitting authority for the mill's
wastewater discharges and
discovered the presence of dioxin,
"the most, potent carcinogen
known," and chloroform in the
mill's discharges. EPA Southeast
issued a discharge permit for the
mill that became one of the first
in the country to contain a dioxin
limit. Based on this permit, a 300
million-dollar mill modernization
plan was completed in 1994, and
today the plant has realized a 74
percent reduction in harmful
discharges into Pigeon BJver.
EPA Southeast played a
proactive role in the restoration
and protection of Pigeon River.
The states of North Carolina and
Tennessee have seen an increase
in recreational use of Pigeon
River as well as economic
benefits from tourism.
EPA Southeast continues its
role of protecting Pigeon River,
protecting our health and
ensuring that established
water quality standards
are maintained.
Here's What You Can Do to Help Conserve Water:
• Install (i loir-floir
slioirerliead.
• Install loir-floir toilets.
• Make sure (illyour faucets
are irell maintained and
repair leaky faucets quickly.
• Hater your lairu during
early morning or late
afternoon.
• Turn of] water betireen
icashing and rinsing your
car. and irasli your car on
the lairn to reduce runoff.
-------
soiTUFAS r KI.<;I<>\ • :io \ I:\KS or F \\IRO\MIMM. PKOCKKSS
-------
"l\e don't inherit I lie hind from onr parents;
ire borrow il from onr children. " —\atire American prorerb
FPA Southeast comprises the largest region
served by the I'.S. EPA. both geographically
and in terms of population. Our region is also
(he most geographically diverse region ol the
country, which presents us \\ith a \ery distinct
challenge to ensure (lie health and survival of
tP
these precious natural resources.
To empower EPA to meet these challenges.
Congress has passed legislation related to
important land issues. The Federal Insecticide.
Fungicide and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) of
1()72 gave FPA the authority to study and
control the use oi pesticides. Amendments to
FIFRA now require pesticide users to take
exams for certification to ensure that pesticides
are properly labeled and properly applied to
avoid harm to people or die environment. In
1976. the Resource Conservation and Recovery
Act (RCRA) gave FPA the anlhorily (o control
all hazardous waste and non-hazardous solid
waste from "cradle to grave.' Amendments to
RCRA in 198-1 required phasing out land
disposal of hazardous waste, and amendments
in 1986 further strengthened the Act In
focusing on regulation of underground
petroleum storage tanks.
\\ hile RCRA helps regulate waste disposal, the
1980 Comprehensive Environmental Response
Compensation and Liability Vet (Superfund)
authorized the cleanup of uncontrollable or
abandoned hazardous \\aste sites as well as
accidents, spills and other emergency releases.
These statutes ha\e had a great impact on EPA
Southeast's role with regard to land use and
preservation.
I listorically southeastern land use has been
agriculturally based, \\hile agriculture provides
us \\ith our foods, it also contributes to
pesticide, herbicide and animal \\aste pollution
of our soil and water as well as a general loss of
forests, erosion of topsoil and silt runoff. FPA
Southeast and onr farmers are working
together to learn more about these
complicated issues and find better ways to
minimize environmental risks and to
incorporate environmental practices in daily
agricultural operations.
FPA Southeast is also focused on environmental
factors accompanying onr vast change in land
use from agriculture to industry. ()?ie challenge
that we now face is the phenomenon of edge
effects, or conflicts arising from the proximity
-------
sol 1111 \si HI (;io\ • no M:VKS 01 i \\IHO\MI M \i citoutrss
Conversion of Undeveloped Land
1992-1997 (in acres)
1.200
1 000
800
-= 600
I 400
c: 200
Georgia Floiifla \ Carolina Tennessee SCaiolma \lahaina Kentucky
#3 #-t #5 r7 #<) #1.-! #H '
State/National Rank 1Q02-W7
RCttAAnd
'
Wwj&e
Using the Resource
Conservation and Recovery
Act* (BCM), EPA Southeast is
to oversee the
gtotage of liazardoos wa^te in
ewi^ion. Since 198t, B€RA
has f adlitated the closure of
758 of the 760 nazartous
waste land ^^ disposal faeifiife
in tte Southeast, tte tsw>
facilMw that lensQio :
operational so® ipeejjjpfe§l .^
extensively treat and »^ib^ie
al ianjaiabte, ccs^ai^l /toiic,
reactive and/or e^^te
sraste prior to c&posafe
Additionally, mow ^3pi
the 70 hazardous Waste
tndnerators operatiiag M 19
«« now non-opferafional and
those remaining are operating
under strict permits. C*ur , ' •
states play to injporttiil : role
in regulating hazardous ;^e@te,
and nearly every state -ill ;Q«r
region is
implement
regulations.
partners., we are
controlling and regulating
hazardous waste in the
Southeast.
-------
(I I \\ I \M> - I ROM SI I'l KIT M) TO SI I'KI! I'VKK
Superfund Removal Actions
653 Total Removal Actions
(1980 to Present)
SC - 60
T\ - 50
MS - 50
KV-61
I luonu.li I lie .^n/iei fund />rn/. screens .tnx/iecled Imzdidonx
ird.ilc mien /<> determine l/ic c.ilenl
II/K/ l\pe i>l iei\i>onxe needed.
Itett/xnixe ). In
ani iciiion. 6.5.)' ic/iKii'dl actions /tare
()( Clll K'll xill( (' l()\().
of two very different land
uses. Incompatibility between
new urban areas and
agricultural areas ran bring
unwelcome complications.
\irborne drift from Farm
chemicals and dust can have
very negative health impacts
oil heavily populated.
residential areas. Conversely.
toxic urban runoff and urban
air pollution can damage
crops and waterways and
endanger livestock.
KPA Southeast has made
significant strides in
pioneering new ways of
handling and disposing of
hazardous materials like
pesticides.
Um:>]Pestteide$ Wisely
Pesticides should only EC
applied for those uses, clearly
identified on the coattter,
Using pesticides for ^jsgrifpDae
they are not
example, to poison
animals, can lead to', serious,
injury or death to domestic
animals and children. It iuay
also lead to prosecution al the
person wEo applies llie pesticide
and the person who siippMed it.
This illegal practice has Resulted
in the death of many anteal
species, including endangered
ones.
Homeowners should be yery
careful when applying
pesticides in or around the
home. Do not accept pesticides
from neighbors or friends unless
they are clearly labeled for
home use and in their original
container. In recent years, some
homeowners have applied a
highly toxic pesticide faiown as
methyl paratMaoa that is
intended for agricultural .
only. The use of this jSesticide
inside homes in 't
Mississippi area :
evacuation of 1,
and the
homes. There are in^lf r
effective pesticides
-------
SOUTHEAST REGION • 30 YEARS OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROGRESS
-------
A Decent
ent
"Each generation writes its own biography in the cilies il creates. "
—Lewis Mnuiford
The Southeast has enjoyed economic prosperity
and significant growth over the last decade.
Atlanta's population has doubled To almost
four million, and South Florida currently
support^ six million people with an expected
increase to 20 million by 2050. North Carolina
has grov\ n h\ 2.5 million since 1970. nearly a
50 percent increase, and its Office of State
Planning predicts another 1.9 million increase
over the next 20 years. EPA Southeast is
working with our communities to optimize the
benefits of our growth.
\\ith so many people living in our region. cars
are more prevalent than ever. EPA estimates
that, over the next decade, this extra driving
could eradicate all our gains in reducing air
pollution. Ah a matter ol fact. e\ery state in
KPA Southeast violated at least one clean air
standard in 1990. Our population growth and
resulting sprawl have also contributed to our
loss of wetlands. NearK half of the wetlands of
the Florida Everglades—almost one million
acres—have been destroyed, fii 1920. two
million wading birds populated the Everglades.
but today the area has fewer than 200.000.
The Chaltahoochee River in Georgia has been
referred to as a "river in peril, and EPA
considers the 70 mile stretch of river below
Atlanta to be among the five most polluted
stretches of river in the nation.
\\e are working to assist our communities in
dealing with environmental impacts and wa\s
to avoid them. Mam environmental impacts
are the result of our past growth pattern which
has been primarily single family homes that
require large amounts of land and leave
residents automobile dependent and stuck
commuting in traffic. Commuter effects can be
dramatic when you consider that a one acre
parking lot generates 16 times more polluted
runoff than a meadow.
-------
SOI I III. \S I Kl.(,l()\ •:!(! M.M5S Ol l,\\ IKOMIIA i \l, I'KOUiLSS
EPA recognizes that
environmental protection and
economic development must
he mutually compatible. \Ye
support efforts 1o build and
rejuvenate our communities
and fight sprawl. This
concept, commonly referred
to as Smart Grow th.
addresses urban sprawl and
improves our total quality of
life. It involves preserving
scenic beauty and the
environmental assets of open
spaces and creating livable
communities. Smart Growth
requires that we work
together to rebuild inner
cities where land has already
been developed and city
services exist. Its about
planning wisely for the
future.
Smart Growth at EPA
Southeast includes the
Brown fields Program.
Brownfields are "abandoned
or under used industrial and
commercial facilities where
redevelopment is complicated
by real or' perceived
contamination. EPA
launched the Program in
January 1905 to empower
llcrilulizin So
Florida's
The Eastward Ho! foownfields
project identifies approxfaq^tely
2,100 Brwnfields sites in the
1 15-mfle corridor thai: stretches
through five Florida counties,
This represeate & paflbaeisllp
effort of ptibEc, private awi v
non-profit conoaaiinitf
state and federal gov«iiottieftt
arm
of a larger imitative to
direct fature |p»wtfa in southeast
Florida, This project is
revitalizing southeast Florida's
historic urban core aijd
alleviating development
pressings on the threatened
Everglades eeosysterau
Beared outeomes:
* Eabaaee ecosystems, pubie
health, ecraaonic - „
-------
l,l\ Mil I. COMMl Mill S- \ 1)1 Cl M IIOMI \M> SI II \lll I I l\l\(, I,\\IKO\\1I.M - V ( OV.KI SSIONVI M \\IUI I
states. communities and
stakeholders to work together
to assess, clean up and reuse
Brownfields.
The Brown fields Program
encourages partnerships.
Communities are critical to
the success of this Program
and they are strongly
encouraged to participate as
stakeholders. In addition to
the Browufields grants that
provide seed money. KPA also
provides gran I dollars for job
training that impro\es
employment related to the
environment.
The Brownfields National
Agenda includes
commitments from more than
2o organizations and 20
lederal agencies. These
commitments represent a 300
million-dollar investment in
Brownfields communities by
the federal government and
an additional 165 million
dollars in loan guarantees.
EP\ Southeast has 4.22-t
Brown fields properties, with
BPA*B Project ML - excellence «firf Leadership
EPA's Project XL is designed
to test innovative strategies
to restore and protect our
environment/The Atlantic
Steel Project XL promotes
Smart Growth and urban
livability by facilitating the
redevelopment of a former
steel mill to productive
mixed use in downtown
Atlanta, The 138-aere site is •
now slated for a pedestrian
friendly, commercial and
residential development that
wiE provide 2,400 new
residences and nearly 20,000
new jobs.
The proposed site's location,
design elements and
potential connection to an
existing transit system work
together to combat the auto
oriented nature of growth in
the Atlanta area. EPA
Southeast used the flexibility
of Project XL to allow bridge
construction connecting the
community to existing roads
and highways that are
crucial to accessibility. In
return, it is expected that
this project will lead to better
air quality through the'Hxfe of
mass transit, access to
services within walking or
biking distance,
revitalization of an urban
community and productive
reuse of land that was
previously considered a
liability.
The Atlantic Steel Project
XL provides EPA an
opportunity to showcase
a project that encourages in-
town growth while balancing
environmental protection.
This project is a positive
example that abandoned
industry sites can be
reclaimed while providing a
healthy community and ideal
environment for local
economies to thrive.
( ilizi'ii.i (iiitl Ideal o l/ciiilx inn k
every state in the
southeastern region
participating in the Program.
The communities of KPA
Southeast have shown that
the\ want to decrease traffic
congestion and increase
planning and Smart Growth.
\\e re working together to
make our communities
healthy communities.
Here's What You Can Do
to Help Maintain a
Healthy Community:
• Get involved in local
planning efforts.
• I fte mass transit.
• Car pool.
• Recycle.
• Practice water
conservation.
-------
SOITIIMST KK.GION • 30 \ i:\KS OF I,N\ IKONMI.M \l, PKOCKKSS
-------
The
"hi all thing* of nature there is something of the marvelous"1—Aristotle
KPA Southeast lias almost one-third of the total
shoreline in the continental I nited States, and
currently 35 percent of the population in the
Southeast resides along the coasts. Nationally, it
is estimated that by the year 201-j. more than 7.)
percent of the I .S. population will live, work and
play along the nation's coasts.
Six of the eight southeastern states boast coastal
land—Alabama. Georgia. Morida. Mississippi.
North Carolina and South Carolina. However, all
eight states contribute to the southeastern coastal
watershed. (Watershed—a common outlet—river.
lake, bay or ocean—into which water', sediments
and dissolved materials drain.) The southeastern
coastal watershed begins at the headwaters of our
regions streams, rivers and \\etlands. all of which
eventually drain into our coastal waters. \Vhile on
their journey to the sea. these waters pass
through farming, residential, business and
forested areas picking up pollutants such as
metals, excessive nutrients, pathogens and debris.
All of these pollutants are then deposited into our
nearshore waters and onto the beaches of our
coasts.
Our coastal waters and watersheds provide food.
recreation, education, ports and marinas. These
waters also help protect us from severe weather
impacts and support fishing, shipping and other
industrial activities. Coastal waters are a very
valuable pan ol the Southeast and of our nation s
economy. For example, the Gulf of Mexico
provides more than 40 percent of the total I .S.
commercial fish yield. Sales of seafood from the
Gulf of Mexico are worth two billion-dollars
annually.
The health of the coastal watershed is intimately
linked with the health of the nearshore
ecos\ stem. Nearshore waters provide a unique
habitat for a variety of plants and animals. Sea
grasses and other aquatic plants living in these
waters provide food and shelter for many fish
-------
soi 1 111
(;io\ . :>,(> \i \usoi INMIIONMI VIM i>iio(,iii ss
'('/• fii/in s ///c wane Ix'ii/i/}' ttj
and shellfish. Many marine
organisms, including most
commercially valuable fish
species, depend on nearshore
waters at some point daring
their development. So vital are
nearshore waters that 80
percent of all fish species in
the United States depend on
them for their primary habitat.
Estuaries are also an
important component of the
health of the coastal watershed
ecosystem. (Estuary—a
partially enclosed body of
water formed where fresh
water from rivers, streams and
LI'{ SL /tt'/ps pro/eel am rciiKi
iliri'i xe t'cos\ xlcin.i
ground-water flow to the ocean.
mixing with salt water.)
Recognizing that estuaries
provide critical habitats
necessary for the survival of
tens of thousands of birds.
mammals, fish and other
wildlife, EPA implemented a
National Estuary Program
(NEP) in 1987. This program
brings together federal, state
and local agencies, and the
community in the six XEPs of
EPA Southeast to restore and
protect estuaries serving as
habitats and nursery grounds
for two-thirds of our nation's
commercial fish and shellfish.
Coastal watersheds and
estuaries are very vulnerable to
the effects of pollution that can
impact human health and the
environment. These coastal
waters are greatly stressed by
people and events like:
overuse, toxic urban runoff.
soil runoff, runoff from
fertilizers, storm water and
animal waste runoff, acid rain
deposits, bacteria from faulty
septic tanks and sewage
treatment plants, medical
waste and boat and marina
waste. Additionally, watersheds
are adversely affected by
habitat alteration from the
filling of marshes, wetlands
and tidal flats as well as
construction and other land
clearing activities.
EPA Southeast has seen the
devastating effects of various
forms of coastal pollution.
There were 136 beach closings
and advisories in the Southeast
EPA Southeast's
Southern Appalachian
Ecosystem
The Southern Appalachians
are one of the most biologically
diverse, temperate ecosystems
in the world. The mountain
chain runs through the
southeastern states of
Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky,
South Carolina and Tennessee.
It is home to an estimated 80
species of amphibians and
reptiles, 175 species of birds,
65 species of mammals, a
large number of plants and
trees and the headwaters of
four major southeastern livers.
The Appalachian ecosystem
experienced many changes
during the early 20th century
largely due to land
management practices that
exploited the natural resources.
This exploitation resulted in
eroding cropland and pastures,
heavily logged forests with
little economic value and
related environmental harm.
With the assistance of federal,
state and local communities,
restoration and conservation
began and national forests
were created. As the 21st
century begins, the Southern
Appalachians are on the mend.
in 1999: of these closings. 15
were permanent closings or
advisories (i.e.. more than 12
weeks in duration, or lasting
for one entire beach season).
The primary causes of the
1999 beach closings and
-------
\\'\\\\ I ( OS\SII \IS-
"Dead Zone" in the Gulf of Mexico
Up to 7,000 square miles of
the Gulf of Mexico are totally
devoid of life for several
months of the year. This
"dead zone" is caused by
pesticides and fertilizers
washing off agricultural lands
in the Mississippi River's
watershed and traveling
downstream into the Gulf.
Each spring and summer, the
massive amounts of nitrogen
in these products trigger a
growth of algae that strips the
Gulf water of oxygen. Low
oxygen conditions kill most
bottom-dwelling organisms,
including starfish and many
single-celled animals.
The long-term economic,
ecological and biological
effects of this recurring event
could be devastating. For
example, fishermen who make
their living from the Gulf have
to travel farther out into
deeper waters for the same
catch. This takes time and
extra fuel, which is then
passed on to the consumer in
higher prices.
The dead zone is an example
of what happens in coastal
estuaries around the country.
Seasonally, large amounts of
nitrogen-rich compounds
enter the nation's estuaries as
runoff upsetting the delicate
chemical and biological
balance. It's also an example
of how a harmful
environmental event can occur
far from the source that
caused it.
advisories were as follows: 56
percent were due to bacteria
levels exceeding beach water
salety standards, usually from
sewage or storm water
01 hum //> nialci / oiii a osi ,s/c/;/.s foi
discharges: four percent were
due to a known pollution event
such as a spill: and 40 percent
were initiated as a
precautionaiy measure after
known polluted rains fell in
swimming water's.
EPA Southeast views our
watershed and its ecosystems
as a whole system that is
intimately tied together. What
happens in one part of the
watershed often affects another
part, sometimes hundreds of
miles away. EPA Southeast
assists states in assessing the
quality of their watersheds and
in applying established
watershed protection plans. \\e
also oversee the wetland
permitting process, provide
financial assistance to states.
territories and Tribes to
promote watershed planning
and management, and provide
information to you. the citizens
we serve, so that you can make
wise environmental choices.
Here's \Yhat You Can Do
to Help Keep Our
Ecosystems Healthy:
• t \
-------
SOL Till. VST KKUON • :!() M; \HS 01 l.\\ IKONMI.M \l, PUOGKKSS
-------
ions
"Mr* use the poirer of science to protect people and I lie etiriroiiinent. "
—Jane Hisslcr
In October 1999. our world population
surpassed six billion. Only 12 short \ears ago the
number stood at five billion. This recent rate of
growth is staggering considering that in the 123
years between 1804 and 1927 the population
grew onlv by one billion—taking the world s
total population to two billion.
Rapid population growth makes management of
our environment all the more difficult. Indeed.
EPA Southeast recognizes that the need for
emironniental protection does not stop at our
nation s borders. Through our international
C1
outreach programs, we share technology and
educate other1 countries about actions and
regulations that will protect human health and
the environment. \\e take seriously our
responsibility to help our global neighbors
identify and solve environmental problems1.
Since 1995 the L .S.-Asia Environmental
Partnership (I S-AEP) has been working with
the South Korean Ministry of Environment on an
\dvanced Drinking Water Treatment Project.
EPA Southeast's South Korean Action Teams
traveled to South Korea in 1997). 1996 and
1997. visiting numerous drinking water
facilities. EPA teams documented problem areas
where technical assistance was needed and
provided expertise related to drinking water
disinfection technology, upgrades and
optimization for existing drinking water plants.
protection of drinking water sources and
consultation on regulatory development and
implementation. Additionally, the 1997 South
Korean Action learn conducted an international
svniposium at the National Institute for
Environmental Research, speaking to more than
100 South Korean government officials.
environmental regulators, drinking water
researchers and drinking water utility managers
and operators.
South Korea is not the only international
-------
SOI Illl \SI Kl (,l()\ • :!(! M \HS Ol I NMIiONMI M \l I'HOUil SS
outreach project that EPA
Southeast lias participated in.
During the past decade. EPA
Southeast and the U.S. EPA's
Office of International
Activities supported
environmental protection in
Ukraine. Working through the
U.S.—Ukraine Binational
Commission. EPA Southeast
provided technical assistance
to the Ukrainian Ministry of
Environmental Protection and
Xuclear Safety (MEPXS) on a
pilot project for hazardous
waste management and
wastewater problems. The
goals of the project were to
evaluate treatment and
disposal of hazardous waste,
identify hazardous waste
disposal sites and make
recommendations regarding
hazardous waste management.
In order to facilitate this
project. EPA Southeast
personnel assisted with
inspections, conducted
sampling and helped local
authorities compile
information on the quantity.
nature and source of
hazardous waste. A modern
laboratory has been equipped
in Kyyiv. Ukraine to further
analyze samples taken from
waste sites and waterways.
The lab provides vital
scientific data needed for
computer models of areas of
environmental concern, like
the Kaniv Reservoir and the
Dnipro Estuary near the Black
Sea. EPA Southeast also held
a three-week training course
for 20 Ukrainian
environmental specialists to
facilitate the project.
Through an iriteragency
agreement. EPA Southeast
also traveled to Central
America to provide technical
assistance and environmental
Solar radiation
passes through
the clear
atmosphere
Most radiation
is absorbed by
the Earth's
surface and
warms it
The Greenhouse KHVct
Some solar radiation is reflected by the Earth and the atmosphere.
Some of the infrared radiation passes through the
atmospheie. and some is absorbed and re-emitted in all
directions by Greenhouse
-------
Ill \l im I'l \M I - INI l!l SI'ONSIIill in 01 \l.l \\IIO\S
Guatemala where 32
participants from Guatemala.
El Salvador. Honduras and
Gosta Rica were educated
about traditional and
alternative wastewater
treatment systems. The group
examined case studies from
Guatemala. Venezuela and
Honduras and plan to meet in
the future for follow-up
seminars and workshops. This
pilot project provided an
excellent example for other
Central American
communities to follow.
Pollution knows no
boundaries. Therefore. EPA
Southeast has made it a
priority to reach out to our
global neighbors in the belief
that every human is entitled to
a safe and healthy
environment. Our
international activities in
Korea. Ukraine and Central
America are intended to
educate and provide solutions
for very real environmental
problems that could
potentially have a significant
global impact.
Here's What You fan
Do lo Help Main I a in
a Healthy Planet:
• Turn oJJ all lights when
they're not needed.
• Insulate hot water heaters to
• I se energy efficient
fluorescent light bulbs.
• Purchase fuel efficient
vehicles, and investigate
alternative fuel vehicles like
electric or natural gas cars.
• Install energ)' efficient
irindoirs, or storm windows,
in your home and office.
• Make sure all doors and
windows are properly
sealed lo prevent heat and
energy- loss.
0.6
0.4
0.2
0.0
-0:2
-O.-t
-0 0
-0.8
-1 0
Global Temperature Changes
(1861 - 1996)
Global Warming
The Earth's climate may be
changing because human
activities are altering the
chemical composition of our
atmosphere. The buildup of
greenhouse gases—carbon
dioxide, methane and nitrous
oxide—contribute to heat-
trapping within the Earth's
atmosphere. Although
uncertainty exists about the
extent to which the Earth's
climate responds to these
gases, global temperatures are
rising. This phenomenon is
known as the Greenhouse
Effect and could have an
impact on sea levels, rainfall
amounts, land use, human
health and ecosystems.
Scientists generally believe that
the combustion of fossil fuels is
the primary reason for the
increased concentration of
greenhouse gases. Fuels burned
to run our cars and trucks, heat
our homes and businesses and
power factories—such as the
coal fired utility plants in the
Southeast—are responsible for
nearly 80 percent of carbon
dioxide emissions, 25 percent
of methane emissions and 20
percent of nitrous oxide
emissions. Increased
agriculture, deforestation,
landfills, industrial production
and mining also contribute
significant emissions. In 1994,
the United States emitted one-
fifth of the total global
greenhouse gases.
-------
SOUTHEAST REGION • 30 YEARS OK EM IRONMKNTAI. PROGRESS
-------
.the problems that e.rist in tJie world cannot be solved by the level of
thinking thtit created them.... " —Albert Einstein
The world is home lo many more people than il
was 100 years ago. and \ve re siill experiencing a
significant growth rate. I1 or example, the worlds
population has donhled over the last 40 years. In
addition to population growth, the I nited States
has become more industrialized. \\e use more
natural resources now than at any other time in
our history
Population and industrial gro\\th have created
main environmental challenges. Our foresls and
wetlands are disappearing. I sable water is
becoming scarce because it is being diverted into
urban areas and agriculture. Agricultural land is
being converted lor development. Tourism is
encroaching on pristine wild areas. Greenhouse
gas concentrations are increasing as more people
and industries use greater quantities ol (ossil
luels. Knowing this, our greatest challenge is to
find a wa\ to balance unprecedented growth
through better planning, personal choices and
implementation of innovative methods and
technological advances.
Here in the Southeast. \\e re experiencing the
fastest growth rate in the nation. Miami and
Atlanta are among the nations top 10 sprawling
cities, and Allantans drive1 more miles per day
than am other Americans. This growth has
brought unparalleled prosperity, but it is also
placing unprecedented pressures on our
environment and natural resources. In an
attempt to keep up with our changing needs
we re working with our communities, local
governments and states to identify problems and
find solutions.
Part of EPA Southeast s strategy is to provide
helpful information about the environment to
our communities and support their ability to
make informed choices. Our role has evolved
from that of an enforcer reacting to pollution
problems to that of collaborative partner and
regulator, sharing resources, encouraging
-------
SOI
\SI l{|,(,l()\ • :i(MI MiSOl I \\IUO\\1I M \l l'l!0(,lil SS
pollution prevention and
working together with
communities for
environmental protection.
Bubiness. industry and other
institutions are now benefiting
from many voluntary EPA
partnership programs such as:
Project XL. Green Lights®.
Waste Minimization. Waste
WiSe and Energy Star'".
Pollution prevention
technology is also an
important part of EPA
Southeast's strategy. For
example, pulp and paper mills
technology ha^ advanced more
in the last 10 years than
perhaps in the oO previous
years. Pulp and paper
industries now have proven
options available to minimize
their environmental impact.
even though the}" are not
required by regulation to use
them. These new methods
include technology for
reducing water use. decreasing
or completely eliminating
harmful bleaching chemicals
and decreasing the amount of
toxics emitted into the air.
EPA Southeast seeks out
opportunities to encourage the
installation of technologies like
those available to the pulp and
paper mills, which will
prevent pollution and protect
our environment.
Our region is a special place.
ihe largest geographic region
protected by the L.S. EPA. We
enjoy remarkably rich and
diverse terrain, beautiful
shorelines, more miles of rivers
than any other area of the
country, more wetland^ and
five million acres of Southern
Appalachian National Forests
and Parks—the largest
contiguous tract of public laud
in the eastern I niled Stales.
l_ sing the nation's
environmental laws. \ve will
continue to work to protect
this special place. Our slate
EPA Southeast's Science for the Future
EPA Southeast is fortunate to
have an entire division of
scientists, the Science and
Ecosystem Support Division
(SESD), that travel
throughout our region
investigating environmental
concerns of citizens and
government agencies. These
teams of men and women
dive to ocean floors, climb
mountain peaks, and wade
out into swamps to collect
samples for testing. After
collection they analyze the
samples in mobile labs or at
their main laboratory facility.
When the answers are
discovered, the findings are
reported to EPA Southeast's
regulators and
administrators. But for our
scientists the job does not
end there. They are
constantly seeking innovative
ways to apply sound science
and cutting edge technology
to environmental issues.
Many situations require that
our scientists refine standard
testing methods to meet new
challenges in quantifying and
qualifying their data.
Additionally, they are
continuously searching for
new and efficient wftys to
monitor our environment and
prevent environmental
events. These men and
women travel the worW
assisting other countries and
sharing their knowledge with
our global neighbors. Quality
and innovative science is the
foundation that they t>mld
upon to protect our health
and the environment upon
which we all depend.
-------
It II lil ( II U I I \(,l s - \\ I "\ I si I! I (.(II \ I (>\(, \\
and local governments.
community partners and
you—om citi/en^—p^ty a
crucial role in helping us get
this important work done. Our
future depends on innovative
and creative thouaht to correct
the problems of the past. Karl)
ol us shares an obligation 1o
be conscientious and steadlast
in oni' commitment to
environmental Mewaid.ship.
Milhon
70
00
Total Population Projection in
EPA Southeastern Stales
Mississippi
Gulf Coast Growth
The Mississippi Gulf Coast has
experienced unprecedented
growth and development since
dockside gambling was
legalized in 1990. The existing
casinos attract more than
50,000 visitors per day. and
more than 20,000 new
residents moved to gaming
counties between 1990 and
1995.
Gambling has brought an
economic boost to the counties
along the Mississippi Gulf
Coast, but environmental
impacts are present. EPA
Southeast has seen wetland
loss, increased water demand
and sewage needs and
increased construction of roads
and parking lots—which
contribute to non-point source
pollution.
As we grow, it is important to
consider the environmental
consequences. The Mississippi
Gulf Coast is a good example
of a growing area with a
protected ecosystem that must
be considered. It provides an
essential habitat for numerous
fish species, approximately
138 species of birds, 31 species
of shellfish, 6 reptile species
and 11 mammal species.
Among these are several
threatened or endangered
species, such as the brown
pelican, bald eagle and
peregrine falcon.
I
/I
:,*
-J
------- |