Looking Forward & Conclusion

Looking Forward: Plans for Fiscal Year 2022

OSTP Scientific Integrity Task Force

In May 2021, the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP)
launched a Task Force on Scientific Integrity that will develop a framework to inform and
support the improvement of agency scientific integrity policies and practices. In FY
2022, the Task Force is expected to publish its report and release the Framework, while
the Agency will finish requirements set forth by the Memo.

Updated Policy

In accordance with Executive Memorandum on Scientific Integrity, the Scientific Integrity
Policy (the Policy) at the EPA will be thoroughly updated. The OSTP Framework will
provide assessment criteria that OSTP and agencies can use to inform, review, and
improve the design and implementation of agency scientific integrity policies.

Survey Results

In the fiscal year 2021, the Scientific Integrity Program (the Program) sent out an
agencywide survey to all federal employees to assess the state of scientific integrity at
the Agency. During fiscal year 2022, the Scientific Integrity Program will release an in-
depth analysis of the survey results to inform forthcoming updates to the Scientific
Integrity Policy and enhance the culture of scientific integrity at the Agency.

EPA 2022-2026 Strategic Plan

Throughout the coming fiscal years (2022-2026), each office and region will submit a
plan on how they will implement the scientific integrity cross agency strategy.

Training and Whiteboard Videos

The Scientific Integrity Program currently uses an online platform to provide mandatory
scientific integrity onboarding training. A new onboarding training and whiteboard video
will be created to reflect the updated Scientific Integrity Policy.

Conclusions & Closing Remarks

FY 2021 marked a significant year in scientific integrity across federal agencies. The
executive action set forth in January 2021 make it evident that the Biden-Harris
Administration is putting scientific integrity at the forefront of its policies. The Program
matched the tone set by having both a record number of attendees at the Agencywide
Scientific Integrity Meeting and the highest number of employees complete the scientific
integrity onboarding training since its initiation. The Agency will strengthen these efforts
through continued training, updating the Policy, assisting employees with scientific


-------
integrity concerns, conducting Scientific Integrity Committee meetings, and
implementing actions in response to the Office of Inspector General's
recommendations. By making scientific integrity not only seen, but understood
throughout the Agency, EPA is able to foster a culture in which we increase trust in
each other and the public increases trust in us. The Agency continues to make sure
scientific integrity is at the forefront when conducting, utilizing, managing, and
communicating science.

Upholding a culture of scientific integrity is the responsibility of all EPA employees and
works best when everyone understands the Policy and how they contribute. The
Scientific Integrity Official, Deputy Scientific Integrity Officials, and Office of Inspector
General will continue to be available for any scientific integrity concerns. For nine years,
implementation of the Policy has increased visibility and understanding of scientific
integrity at the Agency. In the upcoming years, the Program will continue to ensure
scientific integrity is upheld and prioritized by all employees, contractors, grantees,
interns, and volunteers.


-------