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Administrator News Archives
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EPA Makes Fuel Economy Estimates Stick
December 11, 2006 - "EPA's new fuel economy sticker ensures American motorists won't be stuck with higher than anticipated charges at the pump," said EPA Administrator Stephen L. Johnson. "Consumers can get more bang for their buck by considering fuel use while shopping for cars and trucks – saving money on refueling costs while helping protect our environment."
To provide American consumers with improved information when shopping for cars and trucks, EPA is issuing new methods to determine the miles per gallon (MPG) estimates that appear on new vehicle window stickers. The new standards will take effect for model year 2008 vehicles, which may be available for sale as soon as next month.
For more information about fuel economy
Learn more about the new label
Related fuel economy information
Administrator Johnson Kicks off Energy Star’s “Change a Light, Change the World” Campaign
October 5, 2006 - "Change A Light, Change The World," which started October 4, is an annual campaign by EPA and the Department of Energy (DOE) that encourages Americans to replace a conventional bulb or fixture in the home or workplace with one that has earned the government's Energy Star label for energy efficiency. This year, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is joining the campaign to extend its reach.
"Through Energy Star, President Bush and EPA are brightening America's future – literally – one light at a time," said EPA Administrator Stephen L. Johnson. "Saving energy and saving money just makes sense. By encouraging smart energy decisions, we are getting these lights off the store shelves and into people's homes."
Transcript from “Ask the White House” online chat
Administrator's remarks at the Press Club
Administrator Johnson Announces National Cooperative Mercury Switches Program
August 11, 2006 - EPA announced a national program that will help cut mercury air emissions by up to 75 tons over the next 15 years. The National Vehicle Mercury Switch Recovery Program is designed to remove mercury-containing light switches from scrap vehicles before the vehicles are flattened, shredded, and melted to make new steel.
"President Bush understands that removing these little switches will lead to big mercury reductions," said Administrator Stephen L. Johnson. "This collaboration strengthens the United States' position as the worldwide leader in reducing mercury pollution."
Fact sheet on mercury switch program
Brown goes green: UPS hybrid truck cuts fuel, emissions
June 21, 2006 - "EPA and our partners are not just delivering packages with this UPS truck – we are delivering environmental benefits to the American people," said EPA Administrator Stephen L. Johnson. "President Bush is moving technology breakthroughs from the labs to the streets. We are doing what is good for our environment, good for our economy, and good for our nation's energy security."
The first of its kind, EPA and UPS partnered to develop a UPS truck that uses EPA-patented hydraulic hybrid technology that can achieve fuel efficiency by 60-70 percent in urban driving and lower greenhouse gas emissions by 40 percent.
Laboratory tests show that this hybrid technology has the potential to dramatically improve the fuel economy for package delivery vehicles, shuttle and transit buses, and refuse pickup. More than 1,000 gallons of fuel each year could be saved per vehicle.
Administrator's remarks at the press conference
Administrator Johnson Kicks Off New EPA Water Efficiency Program That Saves Dollars and Makes Sense
June 12, 2006 - "Efficient products and informed consumers lead to smart water use. EPA's WaterSense program will provide water solutions that are a win-win for our wallets, and our environment. WaterSense just makes sense," said EPA Administrator Stephen L. Johnson. "WaterSense advances President Bush's cooperative conservation goals through education not regulation - spreading the ethic of water efficiency and promoting the tools to make wise water choices."
The WaterSense program aims to raise awareness about the importance of water efficiency, ensure the performance of water-efficient products and provide good consumer information. The WaterSense label will be easily identified on products and services that perform at least 20 percent more efficiently than their less efficient counterparts.
More on the WaterSense program
Administrator's remarks at the WaterSense press conference
Clean Diesel Progress at 2007 Trucks and Buses Showcase
May 8, 2006 - "Together with the Diesel Technology Forum, EPA is meeting the president's call to get our nation off the treadmill of foreign oil dependency by advancing the technologies that are good for the environment, good for our economy, and good for our energy security," said EPA Administrator Stephen L. Johnson. "For the past century, diesel engines have been America's economic workhorse – reliable, fuel efficient, and long lasting. Through innovations in technology, this economic workhorse is expanding into an environmental workhorse."
EPA's clean diesel program uses a "systems approach," in which cleaner fuels help enable cleaner engine technologies. The program is nearing a key milestone. On June 1, 2006, refiners and importers must ensure that the sulfur content of at least 80 percent of the volume of the highway diesel fuel they produce drops from the current level of 500ppm to 15ppm. Lowering the sulfur content will enable modern pollution-control technology to be effective on the 2007 trucks and buses.
Information on EPA's clean diesel campaign
Administrator's remarks at the Showcase
2005 President's Environmental Youth Awards (PEYA)
April 20, 2006 - President George W. Bush and EPA Administrator Stephen L. Johnson welcomed 49 students from across the nation to the White House to honor their achievements in environmental protection.
"From revived prairies to restored stream banks, the innovative projects of our future leaders are proving that environmental responsibility is everyone's responsibility," said EPA Administrator Stephen L. Johnson. "As President Bush and EPA invite Americans to renew the commitment to the environment this Earth Day, it is good to know we are handing down a cleaner, healthier environment to enthusiastic, capable hands."
Information on the PEYA Program, the 2005 award winners and their project descriptions
Transcript of President Bush's speech at the awards ceremony
Celebrating Earth Day, 2006
April 19, 2006 - "Our nation's environmental accomplishments are rooted in our goal to leave the Earth a better place than when we found it. President Bush and I invite you to nurture the health of our global environment by renewing your environmental ambitions this Earth Day." - Administrator Stephen L. Johnson
Earth Day Photos from Rock Creek Park, Washington, D.C. - April 21, 2006
Administrator Johnson's memo: Celebrating Earth Day, 2006
EarthDay.gov - U.S. Government Earth Day Portal
U.S. and China to Partner for a Better Global Environment
April 7, 2006 - Marking a new era of global environmental cooperation, Administrator Johnson travels on the first trip to China in seven years by an EPA administrator. Johnson will meet with top Chinese environmental officials to discuss opportunities for increased cooperation and to observe progress on existing collaborative initiatives.China has committed to have a Green Olympics by working to improve Beijing air quality, using recyclable materials, and building sustainable structures that will have immediate commercial uses following the Olympics.
Air and Climate Programs in China
Administrator's remarks at Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
Administrator Johnson Attends Governor's Summit for Pandemic Flu, Salt Lake City, UT
March 24, 2006 - Administrator Johnson attended the Governor's Summit in Salt Lake City to discuss EPA's role under the National Response Plan, in both avian flu and pandemic influenza preparedness.
EPA’s responsibilities are:
- A support role to USDA and the Department of the Interior in the event of an avian influenza outbreak in the poultry industry or among wild bird populations;
- A support role to HHS in the event of a human pandemic; and
- A lead federal role in supporting the protection of drinking water and wastewater critical infrastructure.
Administrator Johnson's remarks
The Administrator's Action Plan
"Accelerating the pace of environmental progress while maintaining our nation's economic competitiveness."
As Administrator of the EPA, I have had the privilege of meeting with managers and staff throughout the Agency - from every Region, program office, and many of our labs and research facilities. During this time, I have frequently expressed the principles that guide my efforts to accelerate the pace of environmental protection.
These principles, as well as the five priority policy areas that will be the focus of my Administration, are laid out in my Action Plan. I hope this document will be helpful in understanding how I intend to lead our Agency's efforts in providing our children and grandchildren a cleaner, brighter future.
- Administrator Stephen L. Johnson
Action Plan
PDF version (1 p., 140 KB, About PDF)
EPA’s FY 2007 Budget Reflects Efficiency, Collaboration and Sound Science
February 6, 2006 - President Bush’s 2007 budget for the Environmental Protection Agency reflects the need for spending restraint while accelerating environmental protection, maintaining economic competitiveness and strengthening homeland defenses.
“EPA shares in the responsibility of being good stewards of our nation’s environment, and good stewards of our nation’s tax dollars,” said EPA Administrator Stephen L. Johnson. “This budget fulfills every presidential environmental commitment and maintains the goals laid out in EPA’s Strategic Plan, while spending less.”
The president’s budget requested $184 million for EPA Homeland Security efforts, an increase of $55 million over the FY 2006 enacted budget. This funding includes:
• $33 million to protect our drinking water from terrorist attack, including additional Water Sentinel pilots;
• $10 million to develop Environmental Laboratory Preparedness and Response capability; and,
• $10 million to provide for environmental decontamination, including related research and development.
FY 2007 budget request for EPA
Administrator Johnson's remarks
EPA Administrator Briefs Reporters on EPA Efforts in Gulf Coast
September 14, 2005 - EPA Administrator Stephen L. Johnson discussed the agency's work including rescues and testing for various pollutants or toxics following Hurricane Katrina.
Joint News Conference With CDC Director On Preliminary Floodwater Samples From New Orleans
September 7, 2005 - EPA sampled floodwaters from multiple locations across the New Orleans area and analyzed for chemicals and bacteria. These initial results represent the beginning of extensive sampling efforts and do not represent the condition of all flood waters throughout the area. Preliminary information indicates that bacteria counts for E. coli in sampled areas greatly exceed EPA's recommended levels for contact. At these levels, human contact with water should be avoided.
Administrator Johnson's Remarks
Audio of joint news conference (Administrator Johnson and CDC Director Dr. Julie Gerberding) (runs 21:22 file size: 20.5 MB)
Emergency fuel waiver issued nationwide
August 31, 2005 - In order to increase the supply of gasoline and minimize potential gasoline supply disruptions caused by Hurricane Katrina, EPA is waiving the requirement to sell “summer gasoline” which contains a lower volatility limit. This action has the effect of allowing early use of wintertime gasoline. EPA is also allowing the use of diesel fuel which exceeds 500 ppm sulfur content. Both waivers are effective immediately and will continue through September 15th of this year and are applicable throughout all 50 states, U.S. territories and the District of Columbia.
Administrator's speech on waiver of EPA Standards for Gasoline and Diesel Fuels
Remembering September 11th
September 9, 2005 - "Just as “Nine-eleven” recalls my pride in being an American, it also recalls my pride in being a part of the team that makes up the United States Environmental Protection Agency. The September 11th attacks and the anthrax contamination of government buildings showcased what it truly means to be the world’s experts in the field of protecting human health and the environment." - Administrator Stephen L. Johnson
"Good Samaritan" initiative to address acid mine runoff
August 30, 2005 - EPA Administrator Steve Johnson announced a new conservation partnership, the "Good Samaritan" initiative, at the White House Conference on Cooperative Conservation in St. Louis, Missouri. Good Samaritan is a new Agency-wide effort to foster greater collaboration to accelerate restoration of watersheds and fisheries threatened by abandoned mine runoff.
Good Samaritan Initiative Fact Sheet
Administrator Johnson Participates in White House Conference on Cooperative Conservation
August 29 - 31, 2005 - Administrator Stephen L. Johnson and Deputy Administrator Marcus Peacock went to St. Louis, MO to participate in the White House Conference on Cooperative Conservation. As a co-host of the Conference, EPA showcased examples of successful partnerships to clean up brownfields and the Great Lakes.
EPA web site on Cooperative Conservation
Stephen Johnson Celebrates Adirondack Council's 30 Years of Park Protection
August 4, 2005 - EPA Administrator Steve Johnson, lauded the organization as a steadfast advocate for the six million-acre park, and highlighted EPA’s involvement in cleaning the nation’s air.
Senate confirms Marcus Peacock as EPA Deputy Administrator
August 2, 2005 – "Marcus's extensive environmental background and his capable leadership will reinforce the Agency's commitments to the sound science that provides the American people with lasting results. I look forward to working together as the Agency continues to fulfill its mission of improving the nation's environment and protecting public health." - EPA Administrator Stephen L. Johnson.
Marcus Peacock was confirmed by the U.S. Senate to be the EPA's Deputy Administrator on July 29, 2005.
Stephen Johnson's statement to employees.
Administrator Stephen Johnson meets with EPA Interns
August 2, 2005 – A career EPA scientist who began his career as a summer intern, Administrator Johnson took time last week to praise this year's group of summer interns, thank them for their service, and encourage them to set their goals high.
Administrator's photo with summer interns.
Oath of Office Ceremony of the 11th EPA Administrator, Stephen Johnson
May 23, 2005 – Stephen L. Johnson was formally sworn-in by President George W. Bush during a ceremony in the Rachel Carson Room at EPA headquarters in Washington D.C. This was an historic event for two reasons: it is the first time a career scientist has become the Administrator of the EPA, and President Bush is the first President to visit EPA's new headquarters. To better accommodate the interest of EPA employees, the ceremony was broadcast on closed-circuit TV.
Remarks of President George W. Bush
Remarks of Administrator Stephen L. Johnson
View (streaming video) the Oath of Office Ceremony at WhiteHouse.gov
Administrator discusses budget priorities before Senate Subcommittee
May 19, 2005 – "Mr. Chairman and Members of the Committee, I am pleased to be here to discuss the Fiscal Year (FY) 2006 budget request for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and I look forward to working with the members and staff of the Subcommittee on Interior and Related Agencies under which EPA has recently been placed. This is my first time appearing before you as the Administrator of EPA and I am happy to be here."
Written Statement of Stephen Johnson
Steve Johnson becomes EPA Administrator
May 2, 2005 – Steve Johnson was sworn in as the 11th Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency.
Statement upon being confirmed by the U.S. Senate
"I am both honored and humbled that President Bush has given me the opportunity to lead the Environmental Protection Agency. Together, we have made great strides in cleaning the air, water and land. The success of EPA is inseparable from the productivity and creativity of the Agency's professional staff and I look forward to our work ahead." - Stephen L. Johnson
Acting Administrator Steve Johnson testifies before the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee
April 6, 2005 – The Senate Environment and Public Works Committee asked Steve Johnson to testify during his confirmation hearing to become the next administrator of the EPA. During his testimony, Johnson vowed to use his experience and science background to accelerate the progress of environmental protection. On April 13, Johnson was overwhelmingly approved by the committee and his nomination was sent to the full Senate for approval.
Confirmation testimony before the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee:
President Bush nominates Steve Johnson as EPA Administrator
March 4, 2005 – President George W. Bush nominated EPA Deputy Administrator Stephen L. Johnson to be the next administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency. Johnson committed to advance the President’s environmental agenda while maintaining economic competitiveness. A long-time career employee of the EPA, Johnson expressed gratitude to his EPA colleagues; he also thanked President Bush, former EPA Administrators Mike Leavitt and Christie Todd Whitman, and his family.
Steve Johnson’s remarks on being nominated
Full transcript and video
Statement of former EPA Administrator Mike Leavitt
FY 2006 budget request is announced
February 7, 2005 – President George W. Bush announced his budget request for the fiscal year 2006. Acting Administrator Steve Johnson explained that the $7.6 billion requested for the Environmental Protection Agency will allow EPA to continue its pace of protecting public health and the environment.
Budget message and highlights
February 9, 2005 - Budget testimony before the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee: Oral | Written
May 19, 2005 - Budget priorities presented before Senate Subcommittee: Handout
The full budget can be found at http://www.epa.gov/budget
Steve Johnson becomes EPA’s Acting Administrator
January 28, 2005 – Deputy Administrator Steve Johnson became the EPA’s Acting Administrator after Administrator Mike Leavitt was nominated by President Bush to lead the Department of Health and Human Services.