United States Environmental Protection Agency EPA24Q-F-00-001 June 2000 www.epa.gov/performancetrack Office of Policy. Economics and Innovation (2129) National Environmental Performance Track «fl National Environmental PerformanceTrack ------- ...laying the groundwork for greater environmental excellence" —Carol M, Browner Administrator ------- Nationa Environmenta Performance Track The National Environmental Performance Track is designed to motivate and reward top environmental performance. Many companies today are achieving high levels of environmental performance. Through a systematic approach to managing environmental responsi- bilities, taking extra steps to reduce and prevent pollution, and being good corporate neighbors, these companies are leading by example and modeling the way to environmental excellence. At the same time, they are saving money and improving productivity. The Performance Track defines what it means to be a top environmental performer and provides incentives to motivate further improvements. ------- Builds on Success The Performance Track builds on EPA's Common Sense Initiative, Environmental Leadership Program, Star Track, Partnership Programs and many state performance programs. Through these programs and other experiences, many companies have witnessed the business value of con- tinuous environmental improvement and of communicating progress to their stakeholders. The National Environmental Performance Track takes the next step in laying the groundwork for greater environmen- tal excellence. irman ------- As top environmental perform- ers, participants earn access to a unique package of incentives that reward and support continued environmental improvement. These include: • recognition * better information • administrative streamlining National recognition distinguishes a com- pany as an environmental leader. Access to better information can help lower costs and support further improvements. More flexible, streamlined procedures save time and money, a benefit that goes straight to the bottom line. ------- National Environmen The first level of the National Environmental Performance Track—the National Environmental Achievement Track—is open to facilities of all types, sizes, and complexity, public or private, manufacturing or service-oriented. Multi-facility corporations are encouraged to develop companywide policies supporting participation. The Achievement Track is designed for facilities with a solid environmental record and firm commitment to do even more. By doing more, they can earn valuable benefits including: • Recognition —Use of the Performance Track logo —Visibility in EPA publications, Web sites, and events —Special recognition for Charter Participants • Access to "State-of-the-Art" Information —Best practices database —Peer exchange networking opportunities —Informational briefings with senior EPA officials • Regulatory and Administrative Flexibility —Streamlined reporting requirements —Reduced monitoring —More flexible procedures ------- tal Achievement Track Companies like Lockheed Martin Corporation see value in the Achievement Track program and the benefits it provides. e ERA Pei cooperation ment an< ' Dotn art utu lance Track ind ?en gove '. We bel'- I I LIOI \*\J vv v_J 1 James O'Brien, Vice President, Corporate Energy, Environment, Safety & Health, Lockheed Martin Corporation ------- Requirements for Participation To qualify for participation, facilities must have a systematic approach to managing environmental responsibilities. They must have a strong record of environmental compliance, demonstrate a high level of achievement, and publicly report their progress. Specifically, facilities must: • Have an Environmental Management System that has completed at least one full cycle and includes: —Policies and Planning —Implementation and Operation —Checking and Corrective Action —Management Review • Commit to continuous improvement by: —Selecting specific areas for performance improvement (such as energy, water, and waste) —Demonstrating results through participation in EPA Partnership Programs • Commit to public outreach and performance reporting that is: —Tailored to the size, scale, and setting of operations —Designed to meet community concerns • Achieve a record of sustained compliance with environmental regulations. ------- How To Apply for the National Environmental Achievement Track Obtain an application by contacting us or visiting our Web site. Applications can be submitted electronically or in hard copy. All applications will be reviewed by an EPA panel, and qualifying facilities will be notified of the results of the review. The initial application and review process will occur in the phases outlined below. Thereafter, EPA will review applications semiannually; check the Web site for further details. Facilities that apply by September 1 and meet pro- gram requirements for selection will be considered Charter Participants and receive additional recognition benefits. Applications Received By EPA Notification By September 1 * November 2000 (*Charter Participants) September 30 December 2000 ------- Nationa Environmenta Stewardship Track The National Environmental Performance Track's second level—The National Environmental Stewardship Track- is for companies that are helping to define best prac- tices within their industries and leading the way in the protection of the environment. Because it focuses on exemplary performance, it will offer greater recognition and more valuable incentives than the Achievement Track. Moreover, it will allow for more tailored incentives that reflect participants' specific interests. Some of the qualifying criteria might include specific environmental performance goals and targets; a focus on environmental management and perform- ance among customers, suppliers and transporters; greater responsibility for product performance; and a higher level of community engagement. Still in the early stages of develop- ment, EPA expects to launch the Stewardship Track in 2001. ------- Contact Us For more Information, contact us via: Web: www.epa.gov/performancetrack E-mail: ptrack@indecon.com Phone: 888 339-PTRK ------- |