&EPA
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Washington DC 20460
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{EBEASEl
INVENTORY
BECAUSE IT'S
YOUR RIGHT
To KNOW!
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The Toxk Release
Inventory (TRI) provides a
weojtii of nlvuHUlMNi that
b being accessed doty
across our nation. Qtizens
groups ore fining it mdre-
j-i- • I,...i ] J..J.
pensapie n rarmenng row
efforts to keep theklod
enviromiKnt healthy.
Educators are using TRI to
give their students "rod
He' practice in undying
toxkbazards.
Lego organizations, the.
iHepjOj and Hiiuiiuiis have
al holed TRI for empower-
ing bdMduob and groups
about toxk chemicals mat
miM hnwt llw «nJhy gf
He h thek area. TRI is
being used by citizens and
businesses to increase
awareness of toxk haz-
ards, and to bring about the
rft IHI mmftttftm j^ul tfjuvu*,
cooporanon ana aunge
thot con hove a dnniutk
tapoct on thousands of
Americans, young and old
™
*
"By plating previously nor-
cessible information from
corporate fifes and computers
into the hands of ordinary
dtizens, TRI enables people
to spottaht potuters and
push for emissions reduc-
tions. In stores of advocacy
reports, dtizens have used
TRI to identify problems and
advance solutions. TRI is a
dynamic and exporting pro-
gram. Current eHorts....will
give citizens a greater say
in preventing toxics where
we work, tve and play."
Paul Drum, Coordinator
Working Group on Community
Kight-Jo-Know
"TRIis a powerful tool to
protect people from toxk
chemkal hazards both on
the job and at home-work-
ers and other community
residents have joined
together to seek reduction
of both toxk chemkal usage
inside the plant and emis-
sions outside of the plant."
Eric Frumin,
Health and Safety Director
Amalgamated Clothing and Textile
Workers Union
"Drinking and breathing is
protected by your Sbrary
card. You can find out what
individual wastes are being
released in your community
by using the Environmental
Protection Agency's Toxk
Release Inventory, mat-
oak at most major libraries
and many college libraries."
Ann Heanue, Associate Director
American library Association
Washington Office
"Kansas Gty,KSPub6c
Library patrons have used
TRI in ways we never
imagamL^We'vehad
requests from businessmen,
journalists, and environmen-
tally concerned dtizens.
This year the metro-wide
school debate topkis the
environment, so TRI is again
being used as a unique,
authoritative source of
information. TRI has
brought us people who
would not have otherwise
used our Sbrary, and it has
provided access to informa-
tion we could not otherwise
obtain from our colection.
Wendy Zumalt,
Adult Services Librarian
Kansas Gty, KS Publk library
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"for dassroom instruction,
the principal data base
accessed by our students is
the Joxk Release
Inventory (JRI) required
under Title HI of the
Emergency Planning and
Community Right-To-Know
Act....The significance of
this Act cannot he over-
stated. .-Our students
work in muhicSsdpSnary
research teams on real
world problems and
[acquire] both the informa-
tion retrieval and social
sktts necessary to network
with industry, citizens, and
regulatory persomeL"
Michael Heimon
Professor of Environmental Studies
Dkkemon College, Corbie, PA
"The JRI gives citizens pre-
viously unavailable infor-
mation about the toxic
waste releases of the
largest industries in their
communities. Armed with
TRI information, people can
take local action to protect
themselves from the haz-
ards of exposure to toxk
chemkals."
Research Report by Citizens Fund
"The TRI is a good example
of why the 1990s are
age. It provides reams of
information from about
20,000 companies on how
they dkpose of 325 types
of chemkals."
Pollution Picture Hazy
byTahreelane
The Blade, Toledo, Ohio
"The TRI has enabled
grass-roots groups around
the country to expose
dvonk pointers and pres-
sure them to dean up. Local
and national organizations
have used TRI data to gen-
erate scores of investiga-
tive reports — and action
by concerned citizens."
Keeping Jabs on Joxics
by John E. Young in
World Watch Magazine
"The [PCRA legislation
serves a very important
function by enabling indus-
trial workers and concerned
citizens to find out about
materials they work with,
or reside near, that might
have an impact on their
health or safety."
EPCKA Enforcement
Encourages Pollution Prevention
by Robert Nagel, Esq.
Atlantic States Legal Foundation
"For the most part, (the
TRI) serves the pubBc good
'm various ways and proba-
bly prompts companies to do
things that it otherwise
wouldn't have done (to
reduce emissions)."
Bob Kissell, Senior Consultant
DuPont Company
Environmental Engineering
Department
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Agency for Toxic Substames
and Disease Registry (ATSDR)
ATSDR is a federal public health agency designated
to prevent or mitigate adverse health effects and
diminished quality of life resulting from exposure to haz-
ardous substances. To accomplish its mission, ATSDR conducts
public health assessments and sponsors and conducts research to
increase scientific knowledge in this area. Health-care providers,
state and local agencies, and the public are provided information and
education opportunities that address the effects of hazardous substances.
Call ATSDR at (404) 639-0727 or write to: ATSDR, 1600 Clifton Road, N.E.,
(E-28), Atlanta, GA 30333.
Academk Institutions The TRI is available in the collections of Federal
Depository Libraries, many of which are located at academic institutions
across the country. Universities may also employ physical chemists and bio-
chemists who can describe the properties and uses of hazardous chemicals.
Universities with public health curriculum would likely have faculty who are
familiar with risk assessment procedures. Academic institutions, in general,
are good resources for basic information about chemicals and toxigenic
properties.
Emergency Management Agencies Every state and most counties
have emergency management agencies that are responsible for coordinat-
ing emergency preparedness planning and response. At the local level this
task is often delegated to the police, fire, or medical service deportment.
Many of these agencies have access to computerized emergency informa-
tion bases, including TRI. These agencies are good resources for basic infor-
mation about known potential chemical hazards in your community.
Environmental and
PiMc Interest Groups
Many groups with an environ-
mental or community health focus are
knowledgeable about the TRI. These orga-
nizations may be able to assist you with
your personal concerns about health issues, or
they may be able to refer you to a particular source.
Many of the larger organizations have local chapters and
active grassroots organizations.
Fire Departments Fire deportments are a good source of information
about the hazardous chemicals used by facilities within their jurisdiction.
Since fire departments are often the first to respond to a chemical emer-
gency, they receive materials safety data sheets (MSDS) or lists of MSDS
chemicals and hazardous chemical inventory forms that provide infor-
mation about the properties and effects of a specific chemical.
Facilities Each business or facility that reports chemical releases to the
Toxic Release Inventory is required to designate an individual to serve as
the public contact for inquiries about TRI. The name and phone number
for the contact is included on the actual reporting form (Form R) submit-
ted by the facility.
UbrariesTRI has been distributed in one or more formats to over
3,000 public libraries and Federal depository libraries across the nation.
Also, libraries can be an invaluable source for other information about
chemicals and their health and environmental effects. Ask your local
librarian to assist you in identifying community resources which can pro-
vide additional assistance.
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Local Emergency Planning Committees (LEPCs) EPCRA also required
the establishment of LEPCs, designated to develop emergency response plans
to prepare for and respond to chemical emergencies. The LEPCs are a focal
point in the community for information about hazardous substances, emer-
gency planning, and health and environment risks. Contact your SERC or call
your local emergency management agency to obtain information on your
LEPC.
Poison Control Centers we located in communities across the country to
assist residents and the medical community in the handling of accidental poi-
sonings. Toxicoloaists at these centers are knowledgeable about acute and
chronic hearth effects that result from exposure to hazardous chemicals. They
can also identify the chemical hazards that are most prevalent in the commu-
nity and can describe preventive and remedial measures required to mini-
mize health problems. Information on your local poison control center is list-
ed in the yellow pages of your telephone directory.
State Emergency Response Commissions (SERC) EPCRA required
each state to designate a SERC, responsible for establishing Local Emergency
Planning Committees (LEPCs) and coordinating their activities. SERCs also
develop procedures for receiving and processing public requests for informa-
tion collected under EPCRA and review local emergency plans.
State and Loco! Agendes Government agendes serving your area are a
vital source of information. TRI reports are filed with the state, as well as with
the Federal Government. Most stales provide access to the data collected, and
many publish analyses of the data. Many state have a counterpart to the U.S.
EPA, as well as a state health department—employing toxicologists, health
and safety officers, environmental specialists, ana others who can provide
assistance. You can locate these agencies in the blue pages or government sec-
tion of your telephone directory or you can call your EPA Regional Office.
Trade Associations Health and medical associations, organizations of
chemists and toxicologists, and associations of chemical manufacturers are
good resources for assistance in interpreting the TRI data and for identify-
ing people with expertise in your area of interest. For a listing of these
organizations consult the Encyclopedia of Associations in the reference
section of your library or check your local yellow pages.
REGIONAL TRI CONTACTS
£adi of the tm regional CPA office! has a TRI Coordinator aid ri%k assessment experts on
staff, along with information on Title III and a range of related topics, for information on
TRI reporting requirements or other TRI information contact:
Dwight Peavey (ATR)
Pesticides and Toxics Branch
USEPA Region 1
(For regular mail, continue with:)
JFK Federal Building
Boston, MA 02203
(For courier deliveries, continue with:)
One Congress Street
10th. Floor
Boston, MA 02203
617-565-3230
Fax 617-565-4939
Nora Lopez (MS-lOi)
Pesticides and Toxics Branch
USEPA Region 2
2890 Woodbridge Avenue, Building 10
Edison, NJ 08837-3679
908-906-6890
Fax 908-321-6788
MikalShobazi(3AT31)
Tanks and Pesticides Branch
USEPA Region 3
841 Chestnut Building
Philadelphia, PA 19107
215-597-3659
Fax 215-597-3156
Carrion D. Hooey (Trie III)
Pesticides and Toxics Branch
UStPA Region 4
345 Courtland Street, NE
Atlanta, GA 30365
404-347-1033
Fax 404-347-1681
Karen Turner (SP-W)
Pesticides and Toxics Branch
USEPA Region 5
77 West Jackson Boulevard
Chicago, II 60604
312-353-5871
Fax 312-353-4342
Warren Layne (6TPT)
Pesticides and Toxics Branch
USEPA Region 6
1445 Ross Avenue, Suite 700
Dallas, TX 75202-2733
214-6557574
Fax 214-655-2164
Jim Him (TOPI)
Toxics ana* Pesticides Branch
USIPA Region 7
726 Minnesota Avenue
Kansas City, KS 66101
913-551-7472
Fax 913-551-7065
KathyAtendolSART-TS)
Toxic Substances Branch
USIPA Region 8
99918th Street
Denver, (0 80202-2405
303-293-1735
Fax 303-293-1229
PamTsoi(A-4-3)
Pesticides and Toxics Brandt
UStPA Region 9
75 Hawthorne Street
San Fiancisco, CA 94105
415-744-1116
Fax 415-744-1073
Phil Wong (AT083)
Pesticides and Toxics frond)
USEPA Region JO
1200 Sixth Avenue
Seattle, WA 98101
206-553-4016
Fox 206-553-8338
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§ What are these chemicals and
how toxic are they?
1 Will these chemicals affect my health?
i What other chemicals are made or stored at this facility?
1 What is the government doing about these releases?
i Wow do I find out what's going on in my community?
These are not easy questions to answer. Many factors must be considered
in order to evaluate what risks, if any, you face from the presence of
toxic chemicals in your local environment. Risk is the measure of the
chance that you will experience health problems or the environment
will be degraded. Risk screening uses available information, such as TRI,
to develop a relative estimate or risk for a given set of conditions.
Risks are ranked as high, medium, or low in order to set priorities for
further evaluation.
RISK SCREENING
#/ Ranking the potency of the chemical.
The toxicologicol potency of a diemicd is a measure of a chemical's potential
to harm human health and the environment. Health effects include the poten-
tial to cause cancer, generic damage, reproductive damage, or harm to the
nervous system. Environmental effects incorporate potential for damage to
plants, animals, and fish.
#2 Ranking the exposure of the chemical.
Regardless of how toxk a chemical is, it cannot do harm unless it has contact
with the environment or a human being. In ranking exposure, you must first
look at the amount of the chemical that is being released...the duration and
the intensity of the releases... and how long the chemical remains in the
environment. Then it is important to define the route of the exposure. Is the
chemical moving through the air, surface water, or ground water? Finally the
exposed population must be defined, as the more people exposed the higher
the likelihood that health problems will occur.
#3 Ranking the potential risk of the chemical.
Using the potency and the exposure ratings, risk screening identifies the
chemicals, facilities, and routes of exposure that present a "high", "medi-
um", or low" priority for a follow up investigation. This find step estab-
tshes the probability that a release in a particular area will harm human
health or the environment.
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The TRI data is a first link to discovering which chemicals being manufac-
tured, released, or transferred in your community pose a threat to human
health and the environment. The TRI will tell you the names and estimat-
ed amounts of chemicals released in your area during the preceding year.
You can also find out about chemicals that were transferred into or away
from your area for treatment and disposal.
This information alone does not indicate the risks that these chemicals
pose or may pose to human health and the environment. Small releases
of highly toxic chemicals may be a greater risk than very large releases
of less toxic chemicals. Though the TRI data is useful to evaluate the risk
in your community, other information is required to form a complete pic-
ture. A determination of risk depends on the release conditions, extent of
exposure, environmental conditions, and other factors.
50 WHERE DO YOU GO FROM HERE?
Once you become aware of toxic chemical releases
in your community, you can decide what to do
next. Here are several ideas...
Learn the foc/s...ln addition to chemical
release information, TRI contains the names
and telephone numbers of public contacts at
reporting facilities. Companies are becoming more sensi-
tive to citizens' concerns about health and the environ-
ment, and some have begun community outreach pro-
grams. Company officials may provide answers to your
questions that could affect risk screening. They can also
steer you towards local agencies, for example, the Local
Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC).
' Go to the local library.. Ask your librarian to help you find
information about chemicals in your community. There are
several standard reference works that can help you decide
whether further investigation is warranted.
prV^ Identify local safety and public health oc/enf/ej...These
PH| groups can help you evaluate what you have learned and
m*M identify any additional information you may need. Most
counties have a public health agency staffed by one or more doctors,
including a county health officer. Some areas have poison control centers
with toxicologists and other staff who may be of some assistance. If you
have difficulty identifying appropriate agencies in your area, i
hospital or fire department for a referral.
Locate the Local Emergency Planning Committee
(iFPO...The Emergency Planning and
Community Right-to-Know Ad (EPCRA) which
created TRI also established LEPCs to plan for emergency
action in the event of hazardous chemical spills and similar
incidents. LEPCs are aware of hazardous chemicals used and
stored by facilities in your area. They receive Material Safety
Data Sheets that detail physical properties and health effects
of hazardous chemicals used by local manufacturers and
other facilities. LEPCs, while often associated with existing
county-level emergency planning or civil defense agencies,
include representatives of environmental and transportation
agencies, fire fighters, hospitals, the media, community
groups, and others.
^f Call the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
WA lATSDR)..$to ATSDR is the leading federal public health
•^ii agency concerned with risks resulting from chemcial expo-
sure. Located in Atlanta, GA, it was created by the Superfund legislation in
1980. ATSDR makes information on the health effects of hazardous sub-
stances available to the public, conducts health assessments, and sponsors
research. The ATSDR publication series titled Toxicological Profiles charac-
terizes toxicological properties and health effects information for specific
chemicals so they can be understood by a lay person. These publications,
widely distributed to libraries across the country, are invaluable if you are
interested in a specific chemical. ATSDR maintains contacts with state and
local health agencies throughout the U.S. (For more information, call
ATSDR at (404) 639-0727.)
Contort EPA for free fact s/iee/s...EPA publishes fact sheets
that summarize health and environmental effects of TRI
chemicals. A typical 4-5 page fact sheet describes the symp-
toms that may result from exposure as well as accepted methods of treat-
ment. Fact sheets are free on request when you call the EPCRA Hotline
(800-535-0202). EPA also administers ten regional offices across the
country for additional assistance.
Contact your local college or university...Leading experts can
often be found in the academic community, and professors
and staff are often willing to share their knowledge with
local residents. Be prepared to make a few phone calls — several
attempts may be necessary to find the right department or person.
Network with neighbors and community
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IE INVENTORY
THUS
EASY
TO
ACCESS!
froxic
The Toxic Release Inventory
(TRI) is only as valuable as the
number of people who use the information.
It's as important as ever to raise the awareness of the availability and
value of TRI across the nation. Individuals and organizations are important
"rungs" of the information ladder that links each concerned citizen with
top corporate and government decision makers.
That's why EPA is dedicated to making TRI easy to access for everyone around
the country. In the spirit of the right-to-know legislation, a
concerted effort has been made to offer TRI in a variety of common
formats and at a broad range of public facilities. TRI products have been dis-
tributed to over 4,000 locations, many of which are public libraries where indi-
viduals can use the TRI data free of charge. Many states also make TRI data
publicly available, either on a computerized system or in published reports.
More information is provided below for other sources for obtaining TRI.
TRI PRODUCT FORMATS
(MB IBWU lot ordering information)
On-line The Toxic Release Inventory
data base is a part of the National Library
of Medicine's TOXNET system, offering
state-of-the-art, user-friendly on-line
searching. The system features a variety
of on-line user assistance features, a flexi-
ble command language, and free text
search capability. Users can print entire or
specific portions of the records either on-
line or off-line, as there are a wide variety
For timely information
and assistance about
reporting requirements
under the Emergency
Planning and Community
Right-to-Know Act
(EPCRA) and Toxic Release
Inventory publications:
EPCRA Hotline
Phone (toll free): 1-800-
535-0202
Hours: 8:30 AM-7:30
PM (Eastern rune)
Days: Monday — Friday
of customized text options built into the
system. Users can also sort and manipulate
the TRI data. The menu-driven search
package allows individuals with limited
computer skills to use the TRI on-line data-
base efficiently and effectively.
Demonstration diskettes are available to
assist those with limited computer knowl-
edge. With TRI on-line, EPA furthers its
commitment to the spirit of the right-to-
know legislation and expands the accessi-
bility of TRI to our nation's concerned citi-
zens and environmentally conscious busi-
nesses and organizations.
CD-ROM The complete Toxic Release
Inventory and Hazardous Substance Fad
sheets containing reference material on the
health and ecological effects of the regulat-
ed substances are available on CD-ROM.
(Compact Disc Read-Only Memory is a
medium for retrieving data on a specially
equipped microcomputer. The use of CD-
ROMs has become commonplace in
libraries.) The CD-ROM offers search flexi-
bility comparable to on-line searching, but
often at a fraction of the cost. CD-ROM is
available from the GPO or the NTIS.
Diskette The Toxic Release Inventory is
available on high density diskette, compat-
ible with the IBM PC microcomputer in
dBASE III PLUS, Lotus 1-2-3, and
Macintosh Excel format. User can select
Right-Jo-Know Network
(RTK-Net)
RTK-Net is on online net-
work concerned with envi-
ronmental issues, in partic-
ular, matters arising from
passage of the Right-To-
Know provisions embodied
in the EPCRA legislation.
This network was original-
ly established in 1989 as a
pilot project by OMB
Watch and The Unison
Institute (two non-profit
organizations), to provide
access to the TRI, fink TRI
with other environmental
datq, and exchange infor-
mation among public inter-
est groups.
RTK Net has since grown
into a full service center,
providing free dial-in
access privileges to gov-
ernment and industry as
welt more complete data
base services, and training
and technical support.
Participants can also com-
municate via e-mail,
exchange documents elec-
tronically, and participate
in "five" and "computer"
conferences. Conference
subjects are selected by
participants and have
included issues pertaining
to health, activism, and
environmental racism.
For more information, con-
tact RTK-Net, 1731
Connecticut Ave., NW,
Washington, DC 20009-
1146 or phone Unison
Institute at 202-797-7200
(FAX-202-234-8584).
You can also register online
by modem at 202-234-
8570, parameters 8,n,l,
and log in as "publk".
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either 5.25 or 3.5 inch diskettes by state
or for the U.S. The diskettes provide the
following data: TRI facility identification
number, facility name, county, city, zip
code, Standard Industrial Classification
(SIC) Code; name of parent company,
chemical name and Chemical Abstracts
Service (CAS) Registry Number, aggregat-
ed chemical releases to the air, land,
underground injection, and water, and
total chemical transfers to disposal loca-
tions and publicly owned treatment
works. Diskettes for 1988 and beyond
also include the public contact and phone
number; longitude and latitude;
state/county, Federal Information
Processing Standards (FIPS) code,
and various EPA-assigned waste permit-
ting identification numbers. Diskettes are
accompanied by documentation and are
available from the GPO or the NTIS.
Microfiche The Toxic Release Inventory fiche is comprised of three
parts. Part 1 includes the introduction and contains a list of regulated
chemicals, a directory of EPA and State TRI contacts, a guide to searching
the fiche, and other reference material. Part 2 is an index to: chemical
substance names; names of facilities, publicly owned treatment works,
JRI User Support
To help you obtain, use and
understand the Toxic
Release Inventory, EPA
operates a TRI User
Support (TRI-US) service.
Specialists ore available to
answer questions, refer
you to the nearest library
where TRI is located, or
assist you in finding just
the information you are
seeking. TRI-US offers
comprehensive search
assistance, on an individual
basis, for both the TRI CD-
ROM and the public online
system, NUW/TOXNET.
Documentation is available
for computerized TRI prod-
ucts, and training is offered
periodically. There is no
charge for this service.
For assistance, call (202)
260-1531 from 8:00 o-m.
to4:30p.m.ESTMon-Fri
and off-site disposal locations; facility city, county and zip code; and chem-
icals released into the air, land, or water. Part 3 contains the TRI submis-
sions for facilities in each State and U.S. Territory. Fiche can be obtained
for the whole United States or for a specific state. The fiche can be
accessed in over 3,000 libraries across the country or it can be ordered
from the GPO.
Magnetic Jtfe Each annual Toxic Release Inventory is available on 9-
track tapes and includes tape documentation. Tapes can be ordered in
ASCII or EBCDIC format in a 1600 or 6250 bpi density. The reporting
facilities names and addresses are also available on tape in the same for-
mats and densities with tape documentation. The tape identifies facilities
by name, address, city, state, county, zip code, Standard Industrial
Classification code, Dun and Bradstreet Number, parent company name
and Dun and Bradstreet number, public contact and phone number, and
TRI facility identification number. The magnetic tapes are available from
the GPO or the NTIS.
Reports Several detailed annual reports on the Toxic Release Inventory
are available, providing summaries, analyses and comparison of TRI data
by year. The reports summarize data on total releases and transfers of
TRI chemicals; geographic distribution of TRI releases and transfers; indus-
trial patterns of releases and transfers; the interstate and intrastate trans-
port of TRI wastes; chemicals with the largest releases and transfers;
waste treatment and minimization, and other insightful analyses. The lat-
est report is available from the Government Printing Office (GPO).
Reports may not be available for all years.
To purchase the JRI on CD-ROM, Mkrofkhe, Diskette, Magnetic Jape,
Reports, or electronic bulletin board (GPO) contact:
Government Printing Office (GPO)
710 North Capitol Street N.W.
Washington, D.C 20401
Phone: (202) 783-3238 (sales)
(202) 512-1530 (diskettes, topes)
U.S. Department of Commerce
National Technical Information Service (NTIS)
5285 Port Royal Road
Springfield, Virginia 22161
Phone: Toll free 1 -800-553-NTIS (rush orders only)
(703) 487-4650 (sales)
(703) 487-4763 (computer products)
For On-line Access contact:
TRI Representative
National Library of Medicine
Specialized Information Services
8600 Roclcville Pike
Bethesdo, Maryland 20894
Phone:(301)496-6531
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WHO
USES TRI?
The Toxic Release Inventory is a rich
source of data for a broad-based audience
"that includes manufacturers, environmental con-
sulting firms, trade associations, labor groups, health
professionals, state and local environmental agencies, Local Emergency
Planning Committees (LEPCs), and federal
agencies. An important and growing user
group is concerned citizens who, on their
own or through organized groups, use TRI
to raise and answer questions about chem-
ical releases in their communities.
E INVENTORY
limiting the amounts of chemical releases
allowable under state permits. One neigh-
borhood near Houston, Texas worked
directly with a local plant to develop an
emissions reduction plan, using recent TRI
data as the basis for discussions. Gtizens
often use the TRI data in combination with
other information sources to explore
health-related risks in their communities.
STATE EMERGENCY
RESPONSE COMMISSIONS
(SERCs)
EPCRA requires each state to
set up a SERC to designate
local emergency planning dis-
tricts within the state, and
coordinate activities and
review plans of the local com-
mittees. The SERCs serve as
liaison between the state and
EPA, and provide the forum
for coordinating all Title III
information, although another
state agency may be designat-
ed to collect TRI data. Each
SERC works to ensure that its
state programs are integrated
with the federal law to
strengthen enforcement. It
provides leadership, coordina-
tion, technical assistance, and
training — working dosely
with the UPCs —using Its
knowledge to help individuals
and organizations meet their
responsfetttes under the Ad.
Whether the TRI is used to influence local
government action, emergency planning,
the education of citizens, or to spur indus-
try-citizen cooperation, it is clear that it
plays an important role in understanding
trends in environmental releases and
chemical waste management.
Here are some examples...
Gtizens The Emergency Planning and
Community Right-To-Know Ad (EPCRA)
was written with individual citizens in
mind, on the principle that the more citi-
zens know the more effective they can be
in improving health and safety by avoiding
chemical hazards in their communities. TRI
enables citizens to become more aware of
toxic chemicals in their own neighborhoods. It encourages dialogue between
individuals and local companies which can result in a change in current
practices, and improve the local environment. For example, a group of
Minnesota residents used TRI data to pressure a local firm to reduce the use
of a carcinogen by 90 percent! The state later passed tougher regulations
Businesses Manufacturers can use the
TRI data as a basis for reducing large
stocks of toxic chemicals located in dense
population areas or to lower levels of
chemical releases. TRI data is also used to
cut costs and improve operations.
"Wastes" represent an expense — chem-
ical wastes leftover after manufacturing
must be managed, which may include
treatment or disposal or transportation
away from the facility. Companies are
using TRI to increase awareness of envi-
ronmental business opportunities and, as
a result, reduce the use of toxic chemicals.
TRI is also used to market a chemical or
process that is cleaner, safer, or more cost-
effective for the reporting facilities. Law
firms, real estate companies, and banks
use TRI to identify potential liability issues
associated with a particular parcel of land.
Most important of all, the publicity that
has resulted from the availability of TRI data has caused many companies
to voluntarily pledge toxic chemical release reductions.
Educators Academic researchers rely on TRI data to conduct important
studies of the environment. Several universities use TRI reports to study
how chemicals are used and develop alternative technologies for the pre-
vention of toxic releases. The Environmental Studies Program at Dickinson
College in Pennsylvania requires its undergraduates to prepare toxic waste
audits on communities or facilities, using TRI as a resource. According to the
Professor of Environmental Studies, "Our students work in multi-disciplinary
research teams to answer real-world problems, and acquire both the infor-
LOCAL EMERGENCY PLAN-
NING COMMITTEES (LEPCs)
Appointed by the SERCs, the
LEPCs include representatives
from state and local govern-
ment, law enforcement, civil
defense, fire fighting, first aid,
health, environmental and
transportation agencies, hospi-
tals, broadcast and print
media, community groups, and
businesses that ore subject to
EPCRA requirements. The
LEPCs develop an emergency
plan, which is reviewed annu-
ally, to prepare for and
respond to chemical emergen-
cies. LEPCs also receive emer-
gency release and chemical
inventory information from
local facilities and make this
information available to the
public on request. They also
have the authority to request
information from facilities for
their own planning purposes.
Each LEPC serves as a focal
point for each community for
Information and discussions
about hazardous substances,
emergency planning, and
health and environmental
risks. LEPCs can be effective in
taking steps to educate the
public about chemical risks and
working with businesses to
minimize those risks.
-------
motion retrieval and social skills necessary to network with industry, citi-
zens, and regulatory personnel."
Public Interest Groups Public interest groups make effective use of the
TRI data to educate citizens, prepare revealing company profiles and influ-
ence change. Most often, they use TRI to bring public pressure to bear on
facilities and public officials. For example, the Silicon Valley Toxics Coalition
used TRI to identify companies emitting potentially harmful chemicals and
urged them to cut releases. National public interest groups often publish
reports based on the TRI data. For example, a study highlighting the
nation's toxic polluters and a report naming companies releasing known
ozone-depleting chemicals were developed as a result of the availability of
the TRI data. The TRI data is also vital for presenting a convincing case to
influence legislators. The Massachusetts Public Interest Research Group fig-
ured prominently in the passage of the nation's first state toxics-use reduc-
tion law, and many other states have followed suit.
Labor Concern for worker safety
Federal Agencies TRI data is
used extensively at the federal
level for a variety of programs.
Congress relies on TRI to pre-
pare environmental legislation/
such as the dean Air Act
Amendments of 1990. Through
TRI data, federal lawmakers
discovered that the nation's
dean Air Act toxics control pro-
gram was not adequate. Of the
top 25 TRI reported dwmkds
released to the air, only two
were regulated by the dean
Ak Act. In 1990, amendments
to the dean Air Act required
manufacturers to develop risk
management plans, shifting the
initial emergency planning bur-
den from the mostly-volunteer
UPC to industry. The Agency
for Toxic Substances and
Disease Registry, a federal
pubfic health agency whose job
it is to prevent or minimize
adverse health effects from
exposure to hazardous sub-
stances, uses TRI data to set
gods for improving the
nation s health. The Inter™
Revenue Service uses TRI data
to measure the compliance of
reporting companies with tax
laws pertaining to the use of
toxk substances.
was a key factor in the original passage
of the national right-to-know legislation.
The right-to-know about chemical haz-
ards in the workplace has been a consis-
tent goal of organized labor since the
early 1970s. The Amalgamated Clothing
and Textile Workers Union teamed up
with a Minnesota community and used
the TRI data to pressure their company
to reduce the use of methylene chloride,
a known health hazard to the workers,
and search for safer alternatives. Union
members and activists pressured the
state for tougher regulations that would
force the company to cut emissions by
93%. One worker remarked, "Right-to-
Know provided the catalyst. Once the
community got involved, there was
tremendous pressure on the business to
reduce the risks!" Publication of toxic
release data often generates pressure on
companies to improve environmental
performance. Unions can capitalize on
public awareness to help protect their
members.
State and Local Agencies TRI data is
useful to hospitals, schools, and state
and local governments for emergency
planning and response at the state and
local level. Many emergency manage-
ment agencies, fire departments, and emergency medical services use TRI
to identify chemicals in use and map facility locations for more effective,
quicker response to emergencies. The TRI data is also used to identify the
need for and pass state and local legislation. In 1989, Louisiana used the
TRI data as the basis for passing a new Air Toxics law requiring a 50 percent
reduction of emissions by 1996. TRI is also used in combination with other
data to determine whether companies are complying with environmental
legislation already in effect. For example, TRI data on off-site transfers can
be used to identify chemicals or wastes being transported from a facility, to
verify that the receiving landfill has the proper permits for incoming
amount and type of waste.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) TRI is used by
EPA as a baseline for measuring improvements in companies across the
nation. Company performance records are tracked over time to monitor
efforts, such as the 33/50 program, and to monitor emission reductions
called for under the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990. TRI is used
throughout the EPA to measure company compliance with other laws and to
target areas where enforcement of other regulations is needed, to gauge
the need for additional regulatory efforts to clean up water, air, and solid
waste problems, and to develop strategies for assessing pollution prevention
programs.
Health Officials TRI data can be used to build an information base
on hazardous chemicals used, manufactured, or transported in a state
or community. Health professionals can use this information to better
prepare personnel for emergencies. TRI can help diagnose, treat, or
study health effects resulting from chemical exposure in the community
or workplace.
Media TRI is important to the education of the community about facilities
and potential hazards in the local area. Many large newspapers, such as
USA Today, the New York Times, and the Wall Street Journal have run sto-
ries on the effectiveness of the right-to-know statute, as have scores of
local newspapers, trade and labor union publications and periodicals.
International TRI enhances the ability of the world to work as one in
monitoring the earth's environment. Several nations use the data to assist
in their efforts to become more environmentally conscious. Environment
Canada uses the TRI data to determine which industries and chemicals
needed greater regulation in their country and is preparing a National
Pollutant Inventory modelled on TRI. The Russian Federation Embassy
used TRI data to evaluate companies interested in opening facilities in
their country. Other users of TRI around the world include Great Britain,
continental Europe, India, and Japan. This is one of the fastest growing
segments of the TRI-user community.
-------
TOXIC RELEASE INVENTORY ?
BACKGROUND
In 1984 a deadly cloud of methyl
isocyanate killed thousands of people
in Bhopal, India. Shortly thereafter there was a
serious chemical release at a sister plant in West
Virginia. These incidents underscored demands by industrial work-
rers and communities in several states for information on hazardous
Materials. Public interest and environmental organizations around the
country accelerated demands for information on toxic chemicals being
released "beyond the fence line" - - outside of the facility. Against this
background, the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act
(EPCRA) of 1986 was enacted.
TITLE III
The Emergency Planning and
Community Right-To-Know Act
(EPCRA) of] 986 is dso
known as Title III of the
Superfund Amendments and
Reauthorization Act of 1986.
The Act provides for the
collection and puWk release
of information about the pres-
ence and release of hazardous
or toxk chemicals in our
nation's communities. The law
requires industries to partici-
pate in emergency planning
and to notify their communi-
ties of the existence of, and
routine and accidental releases
of, hazardous chemicals. The
god is to help citizens, offi-
cials, and community leaders
to be better informed about
toxk and hazardous materials
in their communities.
The Emergency Planning and
Community Right-To-Know Act
(EPCRA) of 1986
Hailed as one of the most potent pieces of
environmental legislation in 20 years,
EPCRA's primary purpose is to inform
communities and citizens of chemical haz-
ards in their areas. Sections 311 and 312
of EPCRA require businesses to report the
locations and quantities of chemicals
stored on-site to state and local govern-
ments. This helps communities prepare to
respond to chemical spills and similar
emergencies. The goal is to reduce risk
for communities as a whole.
a transfer of wastes for treatment or disposal at a separate facility.
Facilities are also required to report on pollution prevention activities and
chemical recycling. Reports must be submitted on or before July 1 each
year and must cover activities that occurred at the facility during the pre-
vious year.
A facility is required to report H it...
H Has ten or more full-time employees; and
H Manufactures or processes over 25,000 pounds of the
approximately 300 designated chemicals or 20 chemical categories
specified in the law, or uses more than 10,000 pounds of any
designated chemical or category; and
Conducts selected manufacturing operations in the industry groups
specified in the U.S. Government Standard Industrial Classification
(SIC) Codes 20 through 39.
Each year, over 80,000 reports — representing billions of
pounds of chemical releases — are submitted to EPA by more than
20,000 manufacturing facilities.
Through EPCRA, Congress mandated that
a Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) be made
public. TRI provides citizens with accurate
information about potentially hazardous
chemicals and their use so that communities can hold companies account-
able and make informed decisions about how toxic chemicals are to be
managed.
Section 313 of EPCRA specifically requires manufacturers to report releases
of more than 300 designated toxic chemicals to the environment. The
reports are submitted to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
and state governments. EPA compiles this data in an on-line, publicly acces-
sible national computerized Toxic Release Inventory (TRI). Many states also
make TRI available. This vast new source of data is indeed a powerful force
for environmental improvement.
Facilities are required to report on releases of toxic chemicals into the air,
water, and land. In addition, they need to report on off-site transfers -
TRI is unique in that it marks the first
time that the public has direct access to
detailed information about releases of
toxic chemicals in their communities.
TRI offers an opportunity for citizens to
increase their knowledge of chemical
usage in their area ana to use this
knowledge to affect community envi-
ronmental policy and change.
TRI INFORMATION
The TRI database includes
information on...
I What chemicals were released into
the local environment during the
preceding year.
: How much of each chemical went
into the air, water, and land in a
particular year.
sic
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
Industry Group
Food
Tobacco
Textiles
Apparel
Lumber and Wood
Furniture
Paper
Printing and
Chemicals
Petroleum and Coal
Rubber and Plastics
Leather
Stone, day, and Glass
Primary Metals
Fabricated Metals
Machinery
(excluding electrical)
Electrical and Electronic
Equipment
Transportation Equipment
Instruments
Miscellaneous
Manufacturing
How much of the chemicals were
transported away from the reporting facility for disposal, treatment,
recycling, or energy recovery.
How chemical wastes were treated at the reporting facility.
The efficiency of waste treatment.
Pollution prevention and chemical recycling activities.
-------
EPA's 33/50 Program
TRI is a strong motivator
for the prevention of pol-
lution. More spedfkaly, it
has been the foundation
for the implementation of
the 33/50 Program, a
voluntary pollution pre-
vention initiative so
named because it estab-
lishes national emissions
reduction goals lor high
priority chemical wastes
— 33 percent reduction
by 1992 and 50 percent
byl99S.ltisacoUaboro-
five partnership between
government, industry, and
the public This program is
intended to fulfill the
promise of TRI with real,
voluntary reductions in
toxk pollution.
TRI provides the first comprehensive
overview of toxic chemical pollution from
manufacturing facilities in the United States.
However, the law does not cover toxic chemi-
cals that reach the environment from non-
industrial sources, such as dry cleaners or
auto service stations. Reported releases are
annual estimates. The amounts reported
could have been released evenly over the
course of the year or, possibly, in a single
large burst. Though the TRI data base is a
starting point for assessing possible health
effects resulting from industrial chemical
use, the user cannot ascertain levels of expo-
sure or risk without combining TRI informa-
tion with information from other sources.
Even though the TRI reporting base has its
limitations, it provides communities with a
spring board from which citizens can seek
further vital information about toxic chemi-
cals in their area.
A Pubk "Report Card"
TRI is a public "report card" for the industrial community, creating a pow-
erful motivation for waste reduction. This annual accounting of the
nation's management of industrial toxic chemical wastes is a valuable
source of information for concerned individuals and communities. Ctizens
can use TRI to evaluate local facilities through comparisons...determine
how toxic chemicals are used...and, with other information, evaluate
potential health risks for their community. Organizations can use TRI
information as a starting point for constructive dialogue with manufactur-
ing businesses in the area.
POLLUTION PREVENTION AND TRI
Following implementation of the Pollution Prevention Act (PPA) of 1990,
TRI reporting has become even more comprehensive. Historically, gov-
ernment agencies and waste generators have tried to resolve environ-
mental problems using "end-of-pipe" waste management practices, that
is, treating or disposing of waste after it has been created. Pollution pre-
vention strategies focus instead on avoiding creation of wastes by
redesigning products, changing processes, substituting raw materials for
less toxic substances and other techniques.
With passage of the PPA, Congress adopted as national policy an environ-
mental hierarchy that establishes pollution prevention as the first choice
among waste management practices. For waste that cannot be avoided
at the source, recycling is considered the next best option. A waste gener-
ator should turn to treatment or disposal only after source reduction and
recycling have been considered.
Reporting requirements for TRI changed in 1991 as a result of the PPA.
Prior to 1991, facilities were required to report toxic substances released
into the environment and transferred offsite for treatment or disposal.
Beginning in 1991, facilities were also required to indicate amounts of
chemicals that are recycled, used for energy recovery, and treated on-site.
(Energy recovery means burning the chemical so that resulting heat ener-
gy contributes to subsequent manufacturing operations.) These amounts
must be reported for the past year and the current year, as well as pro-
jected amounts for the next two years. Furthermore, facilities must indi-
cate source reduction activities that have been implemented.
These changes to TRI will highlight the importance of pollution prevention
and encourage reporting facilities to develop and implement strategies for
reducing waste. This new information will also help the public gauge
industry's commitment to improving the nation's environment. By work-
ing together, businesses and neighboring communities can build on
emerging pollution prevention practices for everyone's benefit.
-------
IT S YOUR
RIGHT TO KNOW!
It's your right to know about toxic chemicals
that are being used, manufactured, transport-
ed, or released into the environment in your
community. The Environmental Protection
Agency's Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) pro-
vides information on toxic chemicals released
into the environment so citizens, businesses,
and governments can use this information to
work together to protect the quality of their
land, air, and water.
A POWERFUL LAW
In 1984 a deadly cloud of methyl isocyanate
killed thousands of people in India. Shortly
thereafter there was a serious chemical release
in West Virginia. These and other incidents
escalated demands by industrial workers and
communities in several states for information
on the hazardous materials in their area.
Against this background the Emergency
Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act
(EPCRA) of 1986 was enacted to help commu-
nities prepare for the possibility of chemical
spills and similar emergencies.
The EPCRA also required each state to estab-
lish a State Emergency Response Commission
(SERC) and Local Emergency Planning
Committees (LEPCs) to
ensure that emergency
planning procedures and
coordination of activities to
ensure the public is protect-
ed and educated about the
toxic chemicals being used,
released, and transported
in their communities.
Section 313 of EPCRA
requires manufacturers to
report on releases of chem-
icals into the environment
and their transfer for offsite
disposal and treatment A
Massachsuetts
public interest
group used the
TRI data to
spearhead a
campaign that
resulted in
the nation's
strongest toxic
use-reduction
law, designed
to cut chemical
wastes by 50%
by 1997.
One Houston,
Texas commu-
nity worked
directly with a
local plant to
develop an
emissions
reduction plan,
using TRI data
as the basis for
discussions.
manufacturing facility is
required to report to the
EPA and their state gov-
ernment if it has 10 or
more employees and
manufactures or processes
over 25,000 pounds or
uses more than 10,000
pounds of over 300 chem-
icals that have been speci-
fied in the law. The com-
panies required to report their releases to EPA
are designated by the U.S. Government
Standard Industrial Classification Codes 20
through 39.
The EPA compiles the data submitted by man-
ufacturers in a Toxic Release Inventory, and
makes it available to the public in an on-line,
national computerized database and other for-
mats. The TRI documents releases of toxic
chemicals into the air, water, and land. In addi-
tion, TRI now provides information about
chemical recycling and other practices manu-
facturers are using to reduce the amount of
toxic chemical releases. The TRI is unique in
that it represents the first time that the public
has the right to direct access to detailed infor-
mation about toxic chemicals in their commu-
nity. TRI provides the first comprehensive
overview of toxic chemical pollution from
manufacturers in the United States, serving as
a public "report card" for the industrial com-
munity. The information is vital to the partici-
pation of citizens and businesses in improving
environmental conditions across our nation.
The Emergency Planning and Community
Right-to-Know Act has been passed because
you, as an individual and as part of a commu-
nity, have a right to know what toxic chemi-
cals are being used and transported in your
back yard. Armed with this data you can bring
businesses, citizens, and governments together
to ensure your environment is safe and
healthy.
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
EPA 749-F-93-002
September 1993
Pollution Prevention And Toxics (TS-793)
Because It's Your
Right To Know!
INVENTORY
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Bi Iff-
«> llll
Si
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Recycled/Recyclable
Printed on paper that contains
at toast 50% recycled fiber
-------
The TRI Database
includes information on...
• What chemicals were
released into
the environment during
the preceding year.
• How much of each
chemical went
into the air, water, and
land in a
particular year.
• How much of the chemi-
cals were transported
away from the reporting
facility for disposal,
treatment, recycling, or
energy recovery.
Residents of
Springfield,
Massachusetts
used the
IEPCRA] law
to find out
what dangers
lurked in
plants and
warehouses
adjacent to
their homes
and pressure
local compa-
nies to move
toxic chemicals
to a safer
storage area.
• How chemical wastes were treated at the
reporting facility.
• The efficiency of that treatment.
• Pollution prevention and
recycling activities.
HO WTO USE TRI
TRI data can be used in many ways.
Concerned citizens use TRI to raise and
answer questions about chemicals in their
community, and use the information to begin
dialogue with local manufacturers. Public
interest groups use the TRI data to educate citi-
zens, prepare company profiles, and urge facil-
ities to improve practices. Businesses use TRI
to improve their operations and increase the
efficiency of toxic chemical use and disposal.
Educators rely on TRI to conduct studies and
courses on the environment. Labor unions use
the information to improve conditions for their
workers. Students use the data in their studies.
Health professionals use the TRI to build an
information base to help diagnose, treat, and
study health effects from exposure to chemi-
cals in the workplace. International orga-
nizations and government agencies use
TRI data to enhance their nations' envi-
ronmental awareness and as a guide to
develop their own reporting databases.
State and local agencies rely on TRI to
establish emergency planning procedures,
to pass critical legislation, and enable toxic
waste monitoring in communities. Federal
agencies use the TRI to prepare and
implement environmental legislation and
monitor national health risks. The EPA
uses TRI as a baseline for measuring
improvements and company perfor-
mance records, assisting in special pro-
grams that monitor emission reductions,
and target areas where additional legisla-
tion is needed.
TRI AND YOU
The Toxic Release Inventory provides you
with information about potentially toxic
chemicals and their use in your area. This
information provides a foundation for
communities to build partnerships with
nieghborhood facilities. TRI gives you the
data you need to make informed deci-
sions about how toxic chemicals need to
be managed to protect the environment
and ensure the safety of your community.
TRI data alone does not
tell you whether your
health or the safety of your
environment is at risk. But
using TRI data combined
with other information, it
One official
from a
well known
Silicon Valley
company was
quoted as
saying that the
"right to
know" was a
"significant
factor" in the
decision to
reduce their
chemical
releases.
The right-to-
know has gen-
erated public
support for
tougher laws,
and as a result
Congress has
mandated
stricter con-
trols for 189
toxic chemicals
under the
revised Clean
Air Act.
is possible to estimate
whether there is a high,
medium, or low risk posed
by the toxic chemicals in
your environment. After
determining the potency of
the chemical and the expo-
sure of the chemical,
potential risk of the chemi-
cal can be ranked. This
process is called risk
screening.
The TRI data is the first
link to finding whether
chemicals being manufac-
tured, released, or transferred in your commu-
nity pose a threat. Other resources in your
community are available to assist you in evalu-
ating risks in your community including your
local library, local safety and public health
agencies, the Agency for Toxic Substances and
Disease Registry (a Federal public health
agency) at (404) 639-0727, your SERC or LEPC,
or the EPA EPCRA Hotline at 800-535-0202.
TRI IS EASY TO ACCESS
The Environmental Protection Agency offers
the TRI data in a variety of common comput-
er formats and hard copy formats to ensure
that everyone can easily use the information.
TRI is available on CD-ROM, diskette, mag-
netic tape and microfiche, in addition to
being available on-line via the National
Library of Medicine's TOXNET System.
Annual reports that summarize and analyze
the TRI published by state agencies and EPA
are also available. There
are over 4,000 libraries, including 2,400 pub-
lic libraries, that have the TRI on hand for
public use.
TRI RESOURCES
To purchase the TRI
on CD-ROM, microfiche, diskette, mag-
netic tape, reports, and
directories contact:
Government
Printing Office
710 North Capitol Street NW
Washington, DC 20401
(202) 783-3238 or
(202)512-1530
OR
National Technical
Information Service
U.S. Department of Commerce
5285 Port Royal Road
Springfield VA 22161
Toll Free 1-800-553-NTIS
For On-Line access to TRI contact:
National Library of Medicine
Specialized Information Services
8600 Rodcville Pike
Bethesda MD 20894
(301)496-6531
For additional help or information, each state
has an EPCRA contact available to assist you.
In addition, each EPA regional office has a des-
ignated TRI coordinator. For information
about state and regional contacts or for more
assistance, call the EPA TRI User Support at
202-260-1531.
-------
CE ANNOUNCEMENTS
Ifs easy to help spread the word about the public availability of the
Toxic Release Inventory through your local media. Simply prepare a list
of local radio stations, TV stations, and cable companies. Then distribute the
below announcements to this list on your letterhead, including a contact name
and phone number at the top of the page and your company, organization, or
library name and a phone number inserted at the bottom, as indicated
SECONDS
Are there toxic chemicals in your community? Find
out by using the Toxic Release Inventory -TRI -
a database of information available to the public.
Are toxic chemicals being released into your air, land,
or water? You can find out through the Toxic Release
Inventory - TRI - a database of toxic chemical releas-
es available from state environmental agencies, the
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and public
libraries across the nation.
30 SECONDS
Are toxic chemicals being released into your air, land,
or water? You have the right to know! Get involved
in reducing the risk to your health or your local envi-
ronment. Start by using the Toxic Release Inventory -
TRI -You can access this national database of infor-
mation on toxic chemical releases through public
libraries, state environmental agencies, the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency, and on-line through
the National Library of Medicine's TOXNET System.
Tag line for each public service announcement:
This is a public service message
from [insert your name here],
Call [insert your number here] for more information.
-------
ESS RELEASE
General Version
EPA is making a concerted effort to let the public know about the availability of JKI and
it can be used to promote a safer environment. Jhe sample press release below provides
background information about JKI. EPA would like for you to help promote this unique piece of
environmental information by publishing information about JRI in your news bulletins, newsletters,
magazines, etcetera. Jhe sample press release below can be tailored to your specific organiza-
tion's needs and is provided as guidance.
Citizens Embrace New Tool To Improve The Environment
Washington, D.C Information on chemical releases into the environment
submitted to the Environmental Protection Agency by manufacturers is being used
across the nation by private citizens, citizen groups, governments, businesses and
legislators to improve the quality of the environment.
According to [YOUR NAME AND TITLE], the Toxic Release Inventory is
being used by diverse groups across the country to positively influence the views of
companies, legislators and the public regarding the overall condition of our
nation's environment. The Toxic Re ease Inventory (TRI) was established under the
provisions of the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA) of
1986. Because the public has unprecedented access to detailed information about
toxic chemicals in their communities, they essentially have a report card on how
industry and its practices affect the environment.
The TRI is a collection of information on releases of toxic chemicals into the air,
land, and water across the nation. By law, certain businesses ore required to
report releases of toxic chemicals into the air, land and water. These businesses
are also required to report to EPA and the state in which they reside, information
on transfers of toxic wastes for transfer to off-site locations along with pollution pre-
vention activities and chemical recycling activities.
The philosophy behind the TRI is that the public has a right to know what is
happening with chemicals in their neighborhoods and local communities across
the nation. The TRI is available to the public and is an important resource for dis-
covering potential high- risk chemicals in localities. The TRI enables Americans at
a grassroots level to take responsibility for the local environment and safeguard
their community's quality of life. Equipped with a greater knowledge of chemical
usage in their communities, citizens can use this information to affect environmental
policy and manufacturing practices.
[SUBSTITUTE OR ADD INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR
ORGANIZATION HERE.]
The EPA has provided TRI to more than 4,000 libraries across
the nation. It is also available for sale in a variety of formats from
Government Printing Office (202-783-3238) and the National
Technical Information Service (703-487-4650), and on-line through
the National Library of Medicine's TOXNET System (301-496-6531).
To find out the location of the library nearest you, contact your EPA
regional office or call the EPCRA Hotline, sponsored by EPA, toll-
free at 1-800-535-0202. For a free TRI Information Kit, call the
EPCRA Hotline or write to: TRI User Support (TS-793), U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency, 401 M Street S.W., Washington,
D.C. 20460.
-------
ESS RELEASE
Library Version
EPA recognizes the important role that libraries play in providing citizens access to
public information, libraries are the primary community information resource visited by
people of all ages, and all cultural and socio-economic groups. With this in mind, EPA chose
libraries to be the primary access point for obtaining JRI at the local level and provided
copies of JKI to nearly 4,000 libraries across the country. Citizens nationwide have easy
access to information about the presence of chemicals in their communities but many do not know
that this information is available to them.
EPA would like for you to use the sample press releases below to inform community residents that JKI is in your collection.
The press release can be tailored to meet the individual needs of the library. It is appropriate for publication in newsletters, newspapers, bulletins, maga-
zines, and other forms of written communication.
Libraries Play Important Role In Improving Environment
[NAME],
Director of the
.Library
is
pleased to announce the addition of the
EPA Toxic Release Inventory to its collection.
The TRI is being used by citizens across the
country as a resource for looking at toxic
chemical releases in their communities.
"The Inventory is among our most potent environ-
mental weapons. The Inventory is really a road map of toxic
chemicals, right down to the local level, and it puts that information
directly at the fingertips of citizens. We all can act to reduce those
risks, and measure the results of our efforts," according to Administrator
Carol Browner, head of the EPA. By promoting citizen access to the Toxic
Release Inventory, libraries can meet the needs of citizens who exercise their
right to know about toxic chemicals being released in their community.
Using this important information, individuals can begin working with local
groups, businesses, and governments to improve cooperation and work
towards safeguarding their local environment.
Emergency Planning and Community
Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA), certain busi-
nesses are required to report releases of
toxic chemicals into the air, land and water.
These businesses are also required to report to
EPA and the state in which they reside, informa-
tion on transfers of toxic wastes to off-site
locations along with any
pollution prevention activities
and chemical recycling activities.
Our reference librarian will be happy to assist you
learn more about TRI or to find out the location of the library nearest
you which has TRI in its collection. Please call
for assistance. You may also contact your EPA regional office or call
the EPCRA Hotline sponsored by the EPA toll-free at 1-800-535-0202.
For a free TRI Information Kit, call the EPCRA Hotline or write to: TRI
User Support (TS-793), U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 401 M
Street SW., Washington, D.C. 20460, Attn: TRI Information Kit.
The TRI is a collection of information on releases of toxic chemi-
cals into the air, land, and water across the nation. Under the
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STATE TR1 CONTACTS
3 faaTBty 'a located, as well as with the U.S. tPA. loA state has designated an agency to receive I HI reports and
to-.- puUc k> obtaining and using TRI data. Many states have developed computeriied aata data tees and pabtsh reports HghSghting TKI data for their area.
Keith R. Carter
Alabama [mergency Response Commission
Alabama Department of Envronment
at Management
1751 Congressman W.L Dickinson Drive
Montgomery, AL 36109
(205)260-27)7
Fox (205) 272-8131
Camie Stephen
Alaska State Emergency Response Commission
Government Preparedness
and Response Program
410 Willoughby, Suite 105
Juneou.AK 99801-1795
(907)465-5242
Fox (907) 465 5244
fWMW
American Samoa Environmental
Protection Agency
Office of the Governor
American Samoa Government
Pago Pago, AS 96799
International Number (684) 633-2304
Ethel DeMarr
Arizona Emergency Response Commission
(Include "Building 341" when shipping)
5636 East McDowell Rood
Phoenix, AZ 85008
(602)2316326
Fax(602)231-6313
John Ward
(Send Reports and Related Mail to:)
AttK SARA Division
Arkansas Department of Labor
10421 West Markham
little Rock, AR 72205
(Other Correspondence and Spill Reports to:)
Arkansas Department of Pollution Control
and Ecology
8001 National Drive
lime Rock, AR 72209
(501)570-2189
Fax (501) 570-2129
Steve Homo
Catronw Environmental Protection Agency
555 Capitol Mall
Suite 235
Sacramento, CA 95814
(916)324-9924
Fax (916) 322-6005
Winnrtred Bromley
Colorado Emergency Planning Commission
Colorado Department of Health
4300 Cherry Creek Drive South
Denver, CO 80220-1530
(303)6923434
Fox (303) 759-5355
Suzanne Vougn
Right-to-Know Program Coordinator
State Emergency Response Commission
DEPc/o Waste Management
165 Capitol Avenue
Hartford, Q 06106
(203) 566-4856
Fax (203) 566-4924
Robert Pritchett
Division of Air and Waste Management
Department of Natural Resources
and Environmental Control
89 Kings Highway
P.O. Box 1401
Dover, DE 19903
(302) 739-4791
Fax (302) 739-3106
Pa/neb Thither
(Send Reports to Stephen [. Rickman)
Emergency Response Commission for Title III
Office of Emergency Preparedness
Frank Reeves Center (or Municipal Affairs
200014th Street, Northwest
Washington, DC 20009
(202)7276161
Fax(202)673-7054
Eve Rainey
Florida Emergency Response Commission
Secretary, Florida Department
of Community Affairs
2740 Centerview Drive
Tallahassee, FL 32399-2100
(904)488-1472
(800) 635-7179 (in Florida)
Fax (904) 488-6250
Burtlangjey
Georgia Emergency Response Commission
205 Butler Street, Southeast
Floyd Tower East, Suite 1166
Atlanta, GA 30334
(404)656-6905
Fax (404) 651-9425
fred M. (astro
Guam environmental Protection Agency
D-l 07 Harmon Plaza
130 Rojas Street
Harmon, Guam 96911
International Number (671) 646-8863 (or 8864)
LesteAu
Hawai State Emergency Response Commission
Havri Deportment of Hearth
5 Waterfront Plaza, Suite 250C
500 Alamono Boulevard
Honolulu, HI 96813
(808)586-4249
Fax (808) 586-4370
Margaret Bollard
Idaho Emergency Response Commission
1109 Main
State House
Boise, ID 83720-7000
(208)334-3263
Fox (208) 334-3267
JoeGooaner
Office of Chemkal Safety
Illinois Environmental Protection Agency
P.O. Box 19276
2200 Churchhill
Springfield, IL 62794-9276
(217)785-0830
Fax (217) 782-1431
John Rose
Indiana Emergency Response Commission
5500 West Bradbury Avenue
Indianapolis, IN 46241
(317)243-5176
Fax (317) 243-5092
Pete Ham/in
Department of Natural Resources
Wallace Office Building
900 East Grand Avenue
DesMoines,IA 50319
(515)281-8852
Fax(515) 281-8895
Jon Flint
Kansas Emergency Response Commission
Mills Building, Suite 501
109 Southwest 9th Street
Topeka,KS66612
(913)296-1690
Fax (913) 296-0984
Valerie Hudson
Kentucky Deportment for
Environmental Protection
HReillyRood
Frankfort, KY 40601-1132
(502)564-2150
Fax (502) 564-4245
Jenny Anderson-Labor
Department of Environmental Quality
(Certified mail only to:)
7290 Bluebonnet Boulevard
Baton Rouge, LA 70810
(Other correspondence to:)
Office of Secretory
P.O. Box 82263
Baton Rouge, LA 70884-2263
(504)765-0737
Fax (504) 765-0742
Rayna leibowitz
State Emergency Response Commission
Station Number 72
Augusta, ME 04333
(207)289-4080
Fox (207) 289-4079
PQtrkia Williams
SARA Title III Reporting
Maryland Department of the Environment
Tanks Inventory Program
2500 Broening Highway
Baltimore, MD 21224
(410)631-3431
Fax (410)631-3321
SmiPtA
Massachusetts Department of
Invironental Protection
Bureau of Waste Prevention
Toxics Use Reduction Program
1 Winter Street
Boston, MA 02108
(617)2925870
Fax (617) 556-1090
Kent Kanogy
[mergency Planning and Community
Right-to-Know Commission
Michigan Department of Natural Resources
Environmental Response Division
P.O. Box 30028
Lansing, Ml 48909
(Certified Mail Only:)
300 South Washington Square
Lansing, Ml 4B933
(517)373-8481
Fax (517) 335-3624
Steve Jomlyanovich
Minnesota [mergency Response Commission
175 Bigelow Building
450 North Syndicate Street
St. Paul, MN 55104
(612)643-3542
Fax (612) 643-3005
John David Burns
Mississippi [mergency Response Commission
Mississippi [mergency Management Agency
P.O. Box 4501
Jackson, MS 39296-4501
(Certified Moil Only:)
1410 Riverside Drive
Jackson, MS 39216
Attention: Maher or Burns
(601)960-9000
Fax (601)352-8314
Dean Martin
Missouri [mergency Response Commission
Missouri Department of Natural Resources
P.O. Box 3133
Jefferson Oly, MO 65102
(Certified Mail Only:)
2710W. Main Street
Jefferson City, MO 65109
(314)526-3901
Fax (314) 526-3350
lomEUerhoH
Montana Emergency Response Commission
ESD/DHES
Cogswell Building A-107
Capitol Station
Helena, MT 59620
(406)444-3948
Fax (406) 444-1374
John Steinauer
State of Nebraska Department of
Environmental Quality
1200 N. Street
Suite 400
Lincoln, NE 68509-8922
(402)471-4230
fox(402)471-2909
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KeK Hammock
Nevada Division of environmental Protection
333 Nye Lone
Capitol Complex
Corson City, NV 89710
(702)687-5872
Fax (702) 885-0868
LehndKimbat
New Hampshire Office of
Emergency Management
Title III Program
State Office Pork South
1 07 Pleasant Street
Concord, NH 03301
(603)271-2231
Fax (603) 225-7341
AndrewOppamai
Bureau or Hazardous Substances Information
Wviuon of Envromental Safety, Health
and Analytical Program;
Hew Jersey Department of Envromental
Protection and Energy
401 L Slate Street, CN-405
Trenton, NJ 08625
(609)984-3219
Fax (609) 633-7031
Max Johnson
Hew Mexico emergency Response Commission
(aemkoJ Safety Office
Emergency Management Bureau
P.O. Sox 1628
Santa Fe.NM 87504-1 628
(505)827-9223
Fax (505) 827-3456
rVMMni miner
Hew York Emergency Response Commission
c/o State Department at
Environmental Conservation
Bureau of Spill Prevention and Response
50 Wolf Rood/Room 340
Albany, NY 12233-3510
(518)457-4107
Fax (51 8) 457-4332
North Cantaa emergency Response Commission
North Cantno Divisional
116 West Jones Street
Raleigh, NC 27603-1335
(919)733-3865
Fox (919) 733-6327
Ronald Atteldt
North Dakota State Division
P.O. Box 551 1
Bismarck, NO 58502-5511
(701)224-2113
Fax (701) 224-2119
f. Russelmechom, II
Division of EnvronmeutalQuatty
founonwtonH of nw NorfMm
Mario*, Island*
Doctor Torres Hospital
P.O. Box 1304
Soipon, MP 96950
International Number (670) 234-6984
GndyDewuH
Division of Air Pollution Control
1800 Watermark Drive
Columbus, OH 43215
(614)644-3604
Fax (614) 644-3681
Larry Cafes
OUonofno Dcpoi ttitunt of Hctwtn
environmental Health Administration • 0200
1000 Northeast Tenth Street
Oklahoma City, OK 73117-1299
(405)271-7353
Fax(405) 271-7339
Dennis Wahhal
Oregon Emergency Response Commission
c/o State Fire Marshall
4760 Portland Road, Northeast
Salem, OR 97305-1760
(503) 378-3473 Extension 231
Fax(503)373-1825
LynnSneod
rcnnsyiVttnio Emergency
Management Council
c/o Bureau of Right-to Know
Room 1503/Labor and Industry Building
7lh and Forster Streets
Harrisburg, PA 17120
(717)783-2071
Fax (717) 787-8363
Hector Russe, Chairman
Environmental Quality Board
Banco National Plaza
Avenue Ponce de lean 431
Halo Rey, PR 00917
(809)767-8056
Fax (809) 766-2483
Martha DelaneyMukahey
Department of Environmental management
Division of Air and Hazardous materials
Attention: Toxic Release Inventory
291 Promenade Street
Providence, Rl 02908-5767
(401)277-2808
Fax (4011277-2017
MaWAras
South Canena SffiC - ffCRA Reporting Pain
ft | | ,/|l|.,J|JL imlltr- - • f
MyJVDiNMf at neoaa ana tnviuwiwniui
Control
2600 Bull Street
Columbia, SC 29201
(803)935-6336
Fax (803) 935-6322
Lee Ann Smith
South Dakota Emergency Response Commission
Deportment of Envworment
and Natural Resources
Joe Foss Building
523 East Capitol
Pierre, SO 57501-3181
(605)773-3296
Fax (605) 773-6035
Betty laves
Tennessee Emergency Response Covad
Tennessee Emergency Management Agency
3041 Sidco Drive
Nashville, TN 37204
(615)741-2986
Fax (615) 242-9635
Becky Kurka, TRI Coordinator
Office of Pollution Prevention
and Conservation
Texas Water Commission
P.O. Box 13087
Austin, TX 78711-3087
(512)463-7869
Fax (512) 475-4599
Neil Taylor
Utah Hazardous Chemkal Emergency
Response Commission
Utah Division of Environmental
Response and Remeantion
P.O. Box 144840
Salt Lake City, UT 84116
(801)536-4100
Fax(8011359-8853
Ray McCandless
Vermont State Health Deportment
10 Baldwin Street
Montpelier,VT 05602
(802) 828-2886
Fax (802) 828-2878
Ms of" 2/18/93, new Mess will be:)
Vermont State Health Department
108 Cherry Street
Burlington, VT 05401
(802)865-7730
Fax (802) 865-7745
BenNcaario
Department of Pkmag and Natural Resources
U.S. Virgin Islands Emergency
Response Commission
Title III
Nisky Center, Suite 231
Charlotte Amalie
St. Thomas, VI 00802
(809) 773-0565 (St. Croix)
(809) 773-9310 (St. Croix Fax)
(809) 774-3320 (St. Thomas)
(809) 774-5416 (St. Thomas Fax)
Cathy Hams
Vrajnia Emergency Response Coord
c/o Virginia Deportment of Waste Management
James Monroe Building/ 14th floor
101 North 14th Street
Richmond, VA 23219
(804)225-2513
Fax(804) 371-0193
IdeiHansen
Department of Ecology
Community Right-to-Know Unit
P.O. Box 47659
Olympio,WA 98504-7659
(206)438-7252
(Fax (206) 438-7759
CaiL Bradford
West Virginia Emergency
Response Commission
West Ytajria Office of Emergency Services
Main Capital Building 1, Room EB-80
Charleston, WV 25305-0360
(304)558-5380
Fax (304) 344-4538
Russ Dunst
Department of Natural Resources
101 South Webster
P.O. Box 7921
Madison, Wl 53707
(608) 266-9255
Fax (608) 267-3579
GaryAyers
Wyoming Emergency Response Commission
Wyoming Emergency management Agency
P.O. Box 1709
Cheyenne, WY 82003-1709
(307)777-7566
Fax (307) 635 6017
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