THE INFORMATION
BROKER
EPA Headquarters Library
382-5922
HOFFMAN'S HIGHLIGHTS
SPECIAL FEATURE: ARTICLE ONINFOTERRA
This issue of the Broker includes an article on INFOTERRA, the international refer-
ence and referral organization.
AMERICAN STATISTICAL ASSOCIATION/ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
AGENCY CONFERENCE PROCEEDINGS
The Proceedings from the Fourth ASA/EPA Conference on the Interpretation of
Environmental Data are now available at the Headquarters Library. The papers
present a wide variety of environmental concerns including novel approaches to air
emissions regulations and monitoring, and considerations in the statistical evalu-
ation of analytical laboratory performance. Copies can also be obtained from
Dorothy Wellington, Office of Policy, Planning and Evaluation, Statistical Policy
Branch at 475-8204.
Look for the CENTERFOLD on Global Environmental Issues, which is included
in the middle pages of this issue.
THE INFORMATION BROKER/JULY 1989
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INFOTERRA
The success of environmental protection depends on the availability of scientific and
technological information which enables policy planners to place environmental problems
in their global context. In an effort to assure access to accurate information for improved
decision-making, the United Nations Environmental Program (UNEP) has created a global
information system called INFOTERRA (information of the Earth). INFOTERRA is de-
signed to link environmental experts and to provide a mechanism for cooperative global
environmental information exchange. One hundred and thirty-six countries now partici-
pate in this very effective and active network.
A founding member of the ESJFOTERRA network, the United States has remained one of
the most active partners over the past decade. It is the second largest user of INFOTERRA
services and the number one provider of information. Last year the U.S. National Focal
Point (NFP) handled 1,247 queries, more than double the number processed in 1981. Most
of the NFFs inquiries come from developing countries and are frequently concerned with
issue of chemical safety. U.S. requesters most often need information concerning environ-
mental regulations involving their business investments in other parts of the world.
The U.S. National Focal Point for INFOTERRA is located in the EPA Headquarters Library
in Washington, D.C. The Focal Point conducts research on international environmental
topics, locates international and U.S. government documents, compiles custom bibliogra-
phies, refers patrons to experts around the world, briefs international visitors on U.S.
environmental information systems and conducts database searches on over 400 data-
bases.
In addition to research and reference work, each of the network partners registers national
. sources of environmental expertise for the INFOTERRA International Directory. The U.S.
now has registered 544 excellent sources. A hard copy edition of the Directory can be
purchased from the INFOTERRA Programme Activity Centre, P.O. Box 30552, Nairobi,
Kenya. The Directory can be accessed on-line at any NFP.
UNEP has recommended that NFPs in the developed world become more supportive of
NFPs in the developing world, and in response to that recommendation the U.S. and
Botswana have initiated a companion relationship. As a first step in this relationship a
member of the U.S. staff will be travelling to Botswana this summer to discuss the shape
and direction of this mutual effort.
For further information on INFOTERRA contact Linda Spencer (202) 382-5917.
THE INFORMATION BROKER/JULY 1989
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WHAT'S AVAILABLE IN THE HEADQUARTERS LIBRARY
As part of our ongoing effort to collect books and journals relevant to EPA staff
needs, the following is a list of our latest acquisitions. It is organized by program
area for your convenience.
AIR & RADIATION
Baker, James N. "A New Scare at Rocky Rats." Newsweek. June 26,1989. p. 60.
Benner, Cynthia, et al. "Chemical Composition of Environmental Tobacco Smoke. 2.
Particulate-Phase Compounds." Environmental Science & Technology. Vol. 23, Vol. 6, June
1989. pp. 688-699.
Bolze, Dorene; Beyea, Jan. "The Citizens' Acid Rain Monitoring Network." Environmental
Science & Technology. Vol. 23, No. 6, June 1989. pp. 645-646.
"The Bumpy Road to Clean Fuels." U.S. News & World Report. Vol. 106, No. 25, June 26,
1989. pp. 10-11.
Cheremisinoff, Paul N.; Ouellette, Robert P. "Asbestos Hazard Management." Pollution
Engineering. Vol. 21, No. 6, June 1989. pp. 93-106.
Church, George J. "Smell That Fresh Air: Bush's Plan for Reducing Pollution Offers Some-
thing to Almost Everybody." Time. Vol. 133, No. 26, June 1989. pp. 16-17.
Easterbrook, Gregg. "Clearing the Air: Bush's Plan - Tougher New Standards." Newsweek.
Vol. 113, No. 25, June 19,1989. p. 34.
Eatough, Delbert J., et al. "Chemical Composition of Environmental Tobacco Smoke. Gas-
Phase Acids and Bases." Environmental Science & Technology. Vol. 23, No. 6, June 1989.
pp. 679-687.
Estimating Air Toxics Emissions from Coal and Oil Combustion Sources.
Research Triangle Park, NC: Office of Air Quality & Standards, USEPA, 1989.
EPAX 8906-0050
Galloway, James N. "Atmospheric Acidification: Projections for the Future." Ambio. Vol.
18, No. 3,1989. pp. 161-166.
Hager, George. "Bush Sets Clean-Air Debate In Motion With New Plan." Congressional
Quarterly Weekly Report. Vol. 47, No. 24, June 17,1989. pp. 1460-1464.
THE INFORMATION BROKER/JULY 1989
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"How Cars Get Hooked on Alcohol." The Economist. Vol. 311, No. 7607, June, 1989.
p. 30.
Identification of Asbestos, (slides) Brooklyn, NY: Brian Howard and Associates, 1983.
TD887.A8I4
Licht, William. Air Pollution Control Engineering: Basic Calculations for Paniculate Collection.
New York: M. Dekker, 1988. TD884.5.L52
Likens, Gene E. "Some Aspects of Air Pollutant Effects on Terrestrial Ecosystems and
Prospects for the Future." Ambio. Vol. 18, No. 3,1989. pp. 172-178.
"Our Dirty Air." U.S. News & World Report. Vol. 106, No. 23, June 12,1989.
pp. 48-54.
Radon Measurements in Schools: An Interim Report. Washington, DC: Office of Radiation
Programs, USEPA, 1989. EPAX 8906-0046
Rich, Gerald A. "Air Toxics: Prevention and Mitigation." Pollution Engineering. Vol. 21,
No. 6, June 1989. pp. 66-89.
Rodhe, Henning. "Acidification in a Global Perspective." Ambio. Vol. 18, No. 3,1989. pp.
155-160.
Rotman, David. "Asbestos Verdict Against Du Pont Upheld." Chemical Week. Vol. 144,
No. 24, June 14,1989. p. 9.
Scott, Arthur G.; Robertson, Andrew. Follow-Up Alpha-Track Monitoring in 40 Eastern
Pennsylvania Houses with Indoor Radon Reduction Systems (Winter 1987-88). Research
Triangle Park, NC: Engineering Research Laboratory,USEPA, January 1989. (EPA/600/S8-
88/098, PB 89-110 035/AS, $13.95)
"A Special Staff Report: The Radon Issue." Pollution Engineering. Vol. 21, No. 6, June 1989.
pp. 132-133.
Status of Selected Air Pollution Control Programs. Washington, DC: Office of Air Quality
Planning & Standards, USEPA, 1989. EPAX 8906-0047
Streib, E.W. A Summary of the 1987 EPA National Performance Audit Program on Source
Measurements. Research Triangle Park, NC: Office of Research & Development, USEPA,
1989. EPAX 8906-0034
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Tillman, Ned. 'Test Your Land for Radon-Before You Buy or Build." Pollution Engineer-
ing. Vol. 21, No. 6, June 1989. p. 90.
Weitzman, Leo. Evaluation of Refrigerant from Mobile Air Conditioners. Research Triangle
Park, NC: Air & Energy Engineering Research Laboratory, USEPA, June 1989. (EPA/600/
S2-89/009, PB 89-169 882/AS, $15.95)
WATER
Aquatic (Marine and Freshwater) Biotoxins. Geneva: World Health Organization, 1984.
RA565.A1E63 No. 37
Border Waters: U.S./Canada Transboundary Management: Proceedings of a 1986 Conference.
Bozeman, MT: Parallel Institute for Canadian-American Relations, 1987. TD227.A1B6
Chesapeake Bay Watershed Development Policies and Guidelines. Richmond, VA: Chesapeake
Executive Council, 1989. EPAX 8812-0030
Citizen Action in Developing Clean-up Plans for the 42 Great Lakes Toxic Hot-Spots. Buffalo,
NY: Great Lakes United Inc., 1987. TD427.H3C4
Cooke, Dennis G. Water Quality Measurement for Reservoirs and Tailwaters. Vicksburg, MS:
US Army Engineer Waterways Experiment Station, 1989.
TA7.W34 No. E-89-1
Distribution of Submerged Aquatic Vegetation in the Chesapeake Bay and Tributaries and Chinco-
teague Bay, 1987. Gloucester Point, VA: Virginia Institute of Marine Science, 1987.
QK1223.D57
Gorham, Eville. "Scientific Understanding of Ecosystem Acidification: A Historical
Review." Ambio. Vol. 18, No. 3,1989. pp. 150-154.
Grasso, Domenic; Weber, Walter J. Jr.; DeKam, John, A. "Effects of Preoxidation With
Ozone on Water Quality: A Case Study." Journal of the Water Works Association. Vol. 81,
No. 6, June 1989. pp. 85-92.
Legislative History for State Revolving Loan Funds in the Clean Water Act Amendments of 1987.
(Water Quality Act of 1987). KF26.P825
Mackay, Douglas M.; Cherry, John A. "Groundwater Contamination: Pump-and-Treat
Remediation." Environmental Science & Technology. Vol. 23, No. 6, June 1989. pp. 630-636.
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Morandi, Larry B. State Revolving Funds: Financing Clean Water. Denver, CO: National
Conference of State Legislatures, 1987. KF5570.M6
"Piloting the Industry." [75 years of highlights of the water industry are chronicled].
Journal of the Water Works Association. Vol. 81, No. 6, June 1989. pp. 34-60.
Riley, Paula A. "Wastewater Dechlorination A Survey of Alternatives." Public Works.
Vol. 120, No. 7, June 1989. pp. 62-63.
Solving Ground Water Problems with Models. Dublin, OH: National Water Well Association,
1989. GB1001.72M35S65
Virginia Nonpoint Source Pollution: Assessment Report. VA: Virginia Department of Conser-
vation and Historic Resources, 1988. TD370.V57
HAZARDOUS & SOLID WASTE
Note: The Library has a special collection and database to improve access to Hazard-
ous Waste Information. For more information, contact Karl Debus, 382-5922.
Advanced Waste Treatment: A Field Study Training Program. Sacramento, CA: California
State University, 1987. HW EPAX 8906-0005
Baillod, Robert C. Oxygen Utilization in Activated Sludge Plants: Simulation and Model Cali-
bration. Cincinnati, OH: Risk Reduction Engineering Laboratory, USEPA, April 1989.
(EPA/600/S2-88/065, PB 89-125 967/AS, $15.95)
Cross, Frank L.; Rykowski, Patricia K. "Infectious Waste Incinerator Retrofit." Pollution
Engineering. Vol. 21, No. 6, June 1989. pp. 116-120.
"Diapers Do a Disappearing Act." Environmental Management News. Vol. 4, No. 7, May 15,
1989. pp. 1-2.
Ember, Lois. "Occidental Agrees to Store, Treat Love Canal Wastes." Chemical & Engineer-
ing News. Vol. 67, No. 25, June 19,1989. pp. 20-21.
Friedlander, Sheldon. "Pollution Prevention: Implications for Engineering Design Re-
search and Education." Environment. Vol. 31, No. 4, May 1989. pp. 10-15,36-37.
Goldberg, Dan. "MRF's (Materials Recovery Facilities) Thrive On the East Coast." Waste
Alternatives. Vol. 2, No. 2, June 1989. pp. 51-53.
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Guttentag, Roger; Arnold, Hans G. "What Is a MRF?" Waste Alternatives. June, 1989. pp.
37-46.
Pretreatment in Chemical Water and Wastewater Treatment: Proceedings of the 3rd Gothenburg
Symposium 1988,1-3 June 1981. Berlin, NY: Springer-Verlag, 1988. HW TD745.I5775
Hospital Incinerator Operator Training Course, Volume 1, Student Handbook. Research Tri-
angle Park, NC: Control Technology Center, USEPA, 1989. HW EPAX 8906-0030
Rotman, David. "Court Halts Suffolk's Plastic Ban." Chemical Week. Vol. 144, No. 23, June
7,1989. pp. 9-10.
Snow, Darlene. "Trends in Collecting Recydables." Waste Alternatives. Vol. 2, No. 2, June
1989. pp. 58-65.
The Superfund Innovative Technology Evaluation Program: Technology Profiles. Research
Triangle Park, NC: Office of Research & Development, USEPA, 1988. HW EPAX 8905-
0028
Financial Audit: Environmental and Energy Study Conference Financial Statements for 1987 and
1986. Washington, DC: General Accounting Office, 1989. HW HF5667.6.U54
Volumetric Tank Testing: An Overview. Cincinnati, OH: Center for Environmental Research
Information, USEPA, 1989. HW EPAX 8907-0001
PESTICIDES & TOXIC SUBSTANCES
Johnson, Eric. "Answers Surface for Europe's Underground Woes." Chemical Engineering.
June 1989. pp. 47-58.
Keenan, Russell E.; Sullivan, Michael J. "Assessing Potential Health Risk of Dioxin in
Paper Products." Environmental Science & Technology. Vol. 23, No. 6, June 1989. pp. 643-
644.
Morrow, Paul E. Responses of Susceptible Subpopulations to Nitrogen Dioxide. Cambridge,
MA: Health Effects Institute, 1989. RA427.3.H33 No. 23
Mount, Donald Irvin. Methods for Aquatic Toxicity Identification Evaluations: Phase II Toxicity
Identification Procedures. Duluth, MN: Environmental Research Laboratory, USEPA, 1989.
EPAX 8905-0048
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FOCUS ON - GLOBAL ENVIRONMENTAL COOPER,
OVERVIEW
There is increasing recognition that environmental
problems are interrelated and that any solutions to
specific issues must be in global scope. Because
environmental programs do not respect political
boundaries, environmental programs must be global
rather than national in scope.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is
justifiably proud of its contribution to resolving
worldwide environmental problems. The Agency's
work in the areas of acid rain, global warming,
transboundary movement of hazardous chemicals,
environmental emergencies, and sustainable deve^
opment are described below.
ACID RAIN
In 1986, Canada and the US. began a public/private
program to develop innovative acid rain pollution-
control technology, and to conduct ongoing bilateral
policy consultation. The EPA is also sponsoring joint
meetings and field observations with European and
American scientists studying the mechanisms of
forest damage related to acid rain. In a further
cooperative effort in 1988, the United States signed
an international protocol to control emissions of
nitrogen oxides.
GLOBAL WARMING
The United States is expanding cooperative global
warming research activities with the Soviet Union,
and the People's Republic of China as well as
:ontinuing its efforts with more traditional allies. In
addition, the U.S. is working with the United
Mations Environment Programme (UNEP), the
World Meteorological Organization (WMO), and the
International Geosphere Biosphere Program spon-
sored by the International Council of Scientific
Jnions (ICSU). Most recently/ the U.S. has encour-
iged the establishment of an Intergovernmental
'and on Climate Change (IPCQ set up under the
oint leadership of WMO and UNEP.
The United States is a signatory to the Montreal Proto-
col which takes effect July 1,1989 and requires that
participating nations, using 1986 as a base year, halve
their consumption of CFCs by 1988 and freeze their use
of halons by 1992. Research completed this year by an
International Ozone Trends Panel call into question
projections of future damage, and predicts an even
worse scenario than anticipated. Accordingly, at an
international conference in London in March 1989, the
U.S., the European Community, and a number of other
nations called for an international phase-out of CFCs
and halons by the end of the century.
TRANSBOUNDARY MOVEMENT OF HAZARD-
OUS CHEMICALS
As the transport of hazardous waste across national
boundaries increases dramatically, the potential for a
environmental disaster grows. At the recent Hazardous
Waste convention held in Geneva, the U.S. indicated
that it intends to ban all exports of such wastes unless
the receiving country has agreed to accept them. Under
the current hazardous waste export regulations of the
Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), EPA
requires prior notification to the importing country of
any U.S. proposal to export hazardous wastes, and a
copy of the importing country's consent letter in haz-
ardous waste, without notification, across national
borders for recycling and other specified purposes. The
United States has hazardous waste export agreement
with Canada and Mexico.
To ensure that ocean dumping of hazardous substances
does not result in harm to the marine environment, EPA
implements the 1972 London Dumping Convention
(LDC) through the Maritime Protection, Research and
Sanctuaries Act Certain highly toxic or persistent
substances such as oil, mercury, plastics, and high-level
radioactive wastes are "blacklisted" and may not be
dumped. Other substances are 'graylisted* and may be
For more information on international environmental
issues, contact Ms. Linda Spencer,
INFOTERRA,382-5917.
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The Information Broker
JULY 1989
dumped with special care. The U.S. has recently en-
acted the Ocean Dumping Ban Act which is more
stringent than LDC and will ban most U.S. ocean
du mping after 1992.
Under the Federal Insecticides Fungicide and Rodenti-
cide Act (FIFRA), EPA must notify all countries when
a major regulatory action is taken on any pesticide. To
export unregistered pesticides, U.S. dealers are re-
quired to obtain a signed statement from the foreign
purchaser acknowledging awareness of the unregis-
tered status of the chemical. In addition, labels must
indicate that the pesticide is not registered in the U.S.
ENVIRONMENTAL EMERGENCIES
The U.S. participates in a number of programs de-
signed to improve international cooperation in the
event of environmental emergencies such as those in
Bhopal, Chernobyl and Valdez. The Organization for
Economic Cooperation and Development (OCED)
sponsors a program called "Accidents Involving
Hazardous Substances' which is designed to share
with the public information about the accident poten-
tial certain chemicals. OECD nations also share infor-
mation concerning facilities on national borders which
have accident potential Through UNEP the U.S. par-
ticipates in the "Awareness and Preparedness for
Emergencies at Local Level* (APELL). EPA also
cooperates with the World Health Organization's
International Program for Chemical Safety (IPCS).
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
In 1986, US. EPA charged its Developing Countries
Staff with designing and implementing a strategy for
strengthening U5. support of environmental protec-
tion in the Third World. In this effort, the Agency has
implemented formal and informal agreements with
foreign counterpart institutions and private sector
organizations.
FOR FURTHER READING
Blueprint for the Environment; A Plan for Federal
Action. T. Allan Comp, ed. Salt Lake, Howe Brothers.
1989.
"Can Man Save This Fragile Earthr National Geo-
graphic, December 1988.
Environmental Backgrounder. Global Issues. Office of
Public Affairs, Washington, U.S. EPA. March 1989.
INFOTERRA International Directory of Sources.
Nairobi, United Nations Environment Programme.
1988.
"Mission to Planet Earth". Environment, Vol. 31 No.
3. April 1989.
OECD Environmental Data Compendium. Paris,
OECD Publications, (published each year). (REFTD
169071985)
Our Common Future. The World Commission of
Environment and Development Oxford, Oxford
University Press, 1987.
"Planet of the Yean Endangered Earth." TIME.
January 2,1989.
State of the World. Lester Brown, ed. New York,
Norton Press, (published each year).
Taking a Global View". EPA Journal, VoL 13 No. 7.
September 1987.
World Resources. Donald Hinrichsen, et New York,
Basic Books, Inc., (published each year). (Ref HC 59
W6671986)
FOCUS ON - GLOBAL ENVIRONMENTAL COOP-
ERATION was jointly developed by the Headquar-
ters Library and the Office of International Affairs.
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Satchell, Michael. "The Toxic Avenger Strikes at Corporate Polluters." US News & World
Report. Vol. 106, No. 25, June 26,1989. p. 28.
Short, Jeffrey W.; Sharp, Julie L. "Tributyltin in Bay Mussels (Mytilus edulis) of the Pa-
cific Coast of the United States." Environmental Science & Technology. Vol. 23, No. 6, June
1989. pp. 740-743.
"Three Mile Island Cleanup Nears End." Environmental Management News. Vol. 4, No. 8,
June 1,1989. p. 4.
The Toxics Release Inventory: A National Perspective, 1987: Report on the First Year of Data
Collected Under Section 313 of the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act of
1986. Washington, DC: US General Accounting Office, 1989. EPAX 8906-0016
The 1987 Toxics Release Inventory: A National Summary. Washington, DC: Office of Pesti-
cides & Toxic Substances, USEPA, 1989. EPAX 8906-0015
Webb, David. "Manufacturers Note Slump, Rethink Future of Pesticides." [KGFRA could
mean the death of some products]. Environmental Management News. Vol. 4, No. 8, June 1,
1989. pp. 7-10.
MANAGEMENT
Note: The Library has a special collection of Management books, journals, audiotapes
and videotapes. For more information Contact Anne Twitchell, at 382-5922.
House, Peter W.; Shull, Roger D. "Modernizing Public Sector Management: Fulfilling Past
Promises." Technological Forecasting and Social Change. Vol. 36, No. 1-2. August 1989.
pp. 123-136.
Rhodes, Don. "Supervisors and the Tough Environmental Laws." Supervisory Manage-
ment. July 1989. pp. 29-34.
Robinson, Dana Gaines. "The 1990s: From Managing to Leading." Supervisory Manage-
ment. June 1989. pp. 5-10.
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GENERAL
Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research. Baltimore, MD: American
Association for Cancer Research, 1989. RC261.A1A46
Begley, Sharon. "Microbes to the Rescue!" [ In bioremediation bacteria used to dean up
aquifers, toxic dumps and oil spills]. Newsweek. Vol. 113, No. 25, June 19,1989. pp. 56-57.
Carrol, Todd R.; Schwope, Arthur D. Evaluation, Development and Verification of Field Meth-
ods for Rapid, On-Site Determination of Appropriate Chemical Protective Clothing. Cincinnati,
OH: Risk Reduction Engineering Laboratory, USEPA, March 1989. (EPA/600/S2-88/063,
PB 89-118 673/AS, $28.95)
Clark, Douglas W. "Biosafety in the Public Laboratory." Public Works. Vol. 120, No. 7,
June 1989. pp. 76-78.
Directory of Testing Laboratories. Philadelphia, PA: ASTM,1989. TA416.5.U6D55
Fearnside, Philip M. "A Prescription for Slowing Deforestation in Amazonia." Environ-
ment. Vol. 31, No. 4, May 1989. pp. 16-40.
Freemuth, John. "The National Parks: Political Versus Professional Determinants of
Policy." Public Administration Review. Vol. 49, No. 3, May/June 1989. pp. 278-285.
Hellman, Margaret A.; Cheatham, Richard A. "Data Validation: Its Importance in Health
Risk Assessment." Environmental Science & Technology. Vol. 23, No. 6, June 1989. pp. 638-
640.
Knight, Robin. "The Greening of Europe's Industries." [ From aerosols to
paper...businesses cash in on environmental concerns]. U.S. News & World Report. Vol.
106, No. 22, June 5,1989. pp. 45-47.
Leno,Tony. "Is CIS Good for Local Government?" Public Management. Vol. 71, No. 6,
June 1989. pp. 15-16.
Lewin, Roger. "Global Ban on Ivory Trade." Science. Vol. 244, No. 4909, June 9,1989. p.
1135.
Linstone, Harold. "Mediacracy, Mediocracy, or New Democracy: Where Are the Informa-
tion Age Jeffersons and Madisons When We Need Them?" Technological Forecasting &
Social Change. Vol. 36, No. 1-2, August 1989. pp. 153-169.
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McLoughlin, Tom.; Holstein, Catherine. "The Use of Minibonds to Finance
Infrastructure." Public Management. Vol. 71, No. 6, June 1989. pp. 17-18.
"Outlawing Ivory." Time. June 19,1989. p. 62.
Raudsepp, Eugene. "Change Jobs or Stay Put? Chemical Engineering. June 1989.
pp. 161-166.
Rotman, David. "Doubts Cast on Cancer-Risk Claims." Chemical Week. Vol. 144, No. 25,
June 21,1989. pp. 9-10.
"Thirty-five Years of Neglect." (New Energy Secretary's plans for future). Government Ex-
ecutive. Vol. 21, No. 6, June 1989. pp. 28-29.
Thurmond, James. "An Argument for Investing in Infrastructure." Public Management.
Vol. 71, No. 6, June 1989. pp. 13-14.
"A Wealth of Information on Tap." Chemical Engineering. Vol. 96, No. 6, June 1989. 112-
127.
Wellington, Dorothy G. Federal Statistics Agencies as Models for a Bureau of Environmental
Statistics. Washington, DC: 1988 Executive Potential Program, USEPA, 1988. EPAX 8906-
0033
Wenk, Edward Jr. "The Politics of Technology and the Technology of Politics: Issues for
the US Congress's Third Century." Technological Forecasting and Social Change. Vol. 36, No.
1-2, August 1989. pp. 171-183.
Worden, Robert L., et al. China, A Country Study. Washington, DC: Federal Research
Division, Library of Congress, 1988. DS706.C489
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QUESTION OF THE MONTH
QUESTION: What international efforts are currently underway to remedy
our global environmental problems?
ANSWER:
The efforts of the Netherlands, Frankfort and Vermont are examples of responsive actions
to global threats. The Dutch government launched an ambitious, costly and far-reaching
program to eliminate the production of pollution within the Netherlands in one genera-
tion. It contains a wide-ranging list of protection measures including incentives for mass
transit, control on air emissions and increased conservation. The Frankfort city administra-
tion in West Germany, concerned with the problem of acid rain, has asked motorists to
turn off their engines at red lights. The state of Vermont, worried about ozone depletion, is
planning to prohibit the sale of cars with air conditioners containing CFCs.
In the last decade we have become increasingly aware that environmental solutions
require world encompassing initiatives. The state of the environment is intricately related
to the world's political economy. Only by examining the systemic causes of pollution and
by acting in concert with other nations can we adquately address these global problems.
In this global context, the United Nations initiated in 1983 the World Commission on
Environment and Development (WCED), headed by Gro Harlem Brundtland, Prime
Minister of Norway. Its mission was to examine the critical world environment and devel-
opment problems, to propose realistic solutions, and to ensure that economic development
does not bankrupt natural resources. Commission members were drawn from many
countries and professional backgrounds. The United States was represented by former US
EPA administrator, William D. Ruckelshaus. The Commission held public hearings in
various parts of the world in order to ensure diverse testimony.
The work of the Commission resulted in Our Common Future, an book viewed by the
environmentalists as the most important document of the decade on the future of the
world. Our Common Future calls for consideration of both economy and ecology, and
asks that governments and their people take responsibility not just for environmental
damage, but for the policies that cause the damage. The work outlines current policies
which threaten human survival and must be changed through the cooperative action of
nations. It calls for a new age of economic growth based on the concept of sustainable de-
velopment, which is defined as "development that meets the needs of the present without
compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs."
FOR FURTHER READING:
World Commission on Environment and Development. Our Common Future. Oxford: Oxford University
Press, 1988.
Lebel, Gregory G. and Kane, Hal. Sustainable Development. A Guide to Our Common Future. Washington,
DC: The Global Tomorrow Coalition, 1989.
"Dutch Outline Proposal to Protect Environment." Washington Post May 26,1989, p. A33.
THE INFORMATION BROKER/JULY 1989
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WHAT'S HAPPENING
Following is a selection of conferences on environmental management
topics. For more information on these conferences contact Dozina Taylor,
382-5922.
GLOBAL ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS AND REGULATIONS CONFERENCE. October 10-
11,1989. Washington, DC. During this conference special attention will be focused on
hazardous waste, dean water, chemicals and product regulations in Europe; environ-
mental issues in international transactions; and recent environmental developments in
Canada, Mexico, Japan and the Far East, and Central and South America. For complete
details on this course, contact Ms. Lori P. Cannon at Government Institutes, Inc., 966
Hungerford Drive, #24, Rockville, MD. 20850. (301) 251-9250.
GLOBE '90: GLOBAL OPPORTUNITIES FOR BUSINESS AND THE ENVIRONMENT.
March 19-23,1990. Vancouver, B.C., Canada. This conference will present an integrated
approach to providing business-oriented solutions to environmental challenges. The
environmental part of the conference will include sessions on land, solid waste, air, water,
and hazardous/toxic materials management. For more information contact GLOBE '90,
Suite 250,1130 West Fender Street, Vancouver, B.C., Canada, V6E 4A4. Telephone: (604)
681-6126. Telex: 04-51586. Fax: (604) 681-6825.
GLOBESCOPE PACIFIC ASSEMBLY. November 1-5,1989. Los Angeles, CA. This land-
mark assembly will open with the first comprehensive public hearing in the U.S. on the
implications of the report of the World Commission on Environment and Development
entitled Our Common Future. The assembly will focus on U.S. actions and policies that
promote sustainable development. For more information write to Global Tomorrow Coali-
tion, 1325 G Street, N.W., Suite 915, Washington, D.C. 20005-3104.
INTERNATIONAL SYMPOSIUM ON GROUNDWATER MANAGEMENT: QUANTITY
AND QUALITY. October 2-5,1989. Benidorm, Spain. This symposium will discuss deci-
sion-making processes, models for groundwater management, and aquifers. It will in-
clude both oral and poster presentations. For more information contact Dr. J. Andreu,
E.T.S. de Ingenieros de Caminos, Universidad Politecnica, Camino de Vera, s/n., 46071
Valencia - Spain. Telephone: 361-360 3178.
INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON POLLUTION PREVENTION: CLEAN TECH-
NOLOGIES AND CLEAN PRODUCTS - THE ENVIRONMENTAL CHALLENGE OF THE
1990s. June 10-13,1990. Washington, D.C. This conference, co-sponsored by EPA and the
International Association for Clean Technology, will examine the issues and technologies
related to pollution prevention. The current status and future directions of various federal
and industry efforts will be presented and explored. For more information contact Dr.
Domenic Maio, SAIC, 8400 Westpark Drive, McLean, VA 22102.
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INTER-NOISE 89: INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON NOISE CONTROL ENGI-
NEERING. December 4-6,1989. Newport Beach, CA. Thirteen special technical sessions
will be presented, covering topics including airport noise control, highway noise control,
sound adsorptive materials and sound intensity. Further information on the conference is
available from the INTER - NOISE 89 Conference Secretariat, P.O. Box 2469, Arlington
Branch, Poughkeepsie, N.Y. 12603. For additional information contact Joyce Raymond at
(914) 462-6719.
IWEM 89: TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER IN WATER AND ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGE-
MENT. September 12-14,1989,. Birmingham, England. The conference will include presen-
tations on privatization, river basin management, waste treatment and management, flood
prevention and water operations. Mail completed registration forms to The Institution of
Water and Environmental Management, 15 John Street, London WC1N 2EB, England.
Telephone: 01-831-3110.
SARDINIA 89. SECOND INTERNATIONAL LANDHLL SYMPOSIUM. October 9-13,
1989. Porto Conte, Sardinia, Italy. The 1989 Symposium will focus on the problems re-
garding lining technology, leachate management and the disposal of combustion residues.
For information on registration, exhibition, or accommodations please contact Giovanna
Musini, ISWA-Italian Section, Viale Isonzo 14/1,20135 Milano (Italy). International tele-
phone number: +39.2.5512155.
SECOND INTERNATIONAL ASH UTILIZATION AND STABILIZATION CONFER-
ENCE (ASH II). November 8-9,1989. Washington, D.C. This special conference on incin-
erator ash utilization and stabilization. Final details of the conference will be published in
the July 1989 issue of Resource Recovery Report. For additional information contact Mr.
Frank McManus at (202) 362-6034, or write: Resource Recovery Report, 5313 38th Street
N.W., Washington, D.C. 20015.
THIRD INTERNATIONAL CONGRESS AND FAIR FOR ENVIRONMENTAL TECH-
NOLOGY. November 21-23,1989, Linz, Austria. Congress UTEC '89 will serve as an
exchange of information for experts and other individuals interested in active environ-
mental protection, especially those active in the field of environmental technology. The
following topics will be discussed: environmental politics, public administration, pollution
control policies, environmental data, research and development, and agriculture. For
additional information contact the Trend Commerz GmbH, A-4021 Linz/Austria, P.O.B.
765. Telephone: (732) 27 45 75. Telex: 2-2794 trend a. Telefax: (732) 27 81 737.
THIRD WORLD CONFERENCE ON ENVIRONMENTAL AND HEALTH HAZARDOUS
OF PESTICIDES. December 11-15,1989. Cairo, Egypt. This conference will be a major
occasion for the exchange of information between scientists in the medical, chemical,
physical, toxicological and environmental fields, who are concerned with problems of
THE INFORMATION BROKER/JULY 1989
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exposure to pesticides during the stages of manufacture, formulation, mixing, packing
and application. For more information write to Dr. Mahmoud Mohamed Amr, Professor
of Industrial Medicine & Occupational Disease, Kasr El Ami Faculty of Medicine, Cairo,
Egypt.
TWELFTH INTERNATIONAL SYMPOSIUM ON WASTEWATER TREATMENT. Novem-
ber 20-12,1989. Montreal, Quebec, Canada. The principal objective of this symposium is
to promote the transfer and exchange or research technologies related to municipal and
industrial wastewater treatment. For more information contact Ms. Stephanie Hunt at
(819) 953-5363, or write: Ms. Lorraine Blaskie, Technology Transfer and Training Division,
Environment Boulevard, Hull, Quebec, Canada, Kl A OH3.
HEADQUARTERS LIBRARY STAFF
Head Librarian Mary Hoffman
Head Reference Librarian Anne Twitchell
Reference Librarian Steve Hirsch
Reference Librarian Athena Stone
Reference Librarian Karl Debus
Acquisitions Librarian Melissa Skorupka
Interlibrary Loan Librarian Leida Torres
Cataloging Librarian Gretl Cox
INFOTERRA/Translations Linda Spencer
For Library tours (Wednesday, 9:00-9:30) and database information call
382-5922 or send an E-Mail inquiry to EPA3211.
Contact Nancy Langford at 475-7755 for information about the Public Information
Center (PIC).
THE INFORMATION BROKER/JULY 1989
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