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EPA's Environmental Indicators Initiative

Photograph of a vast farming landscape.
What is the quality of the nation's air, water and land?

Science Question

What is the quality of the nation's air, water, and land? Have environmental conditions improved over the long term?

The Research

Environmental indicators are scientific measurements that track environmental conditions over time. Indicators help measure the state of our air, water, and land resources, the pressures on them, and the resulting effects on ecological and human health. Indicators show our progress in making the air cleaner, the water purer, and in protecting our land.

Launched in November 2001, EPA's "Environmental Indicators Initiative" improves the Agency's ability to report on the status of, and trends in, environmental conditions and their impact on human health and the nation's natural resources. Environmental Indicators identify where additional research, data quality improvements, and information are needed. EPA's long-term goal is to improve the indicators and data that are used to guide the Agency's strategic plans, priorities, performance reports, and decision-making.

These environmental indicators can be used to report on environmental conditions at national regional, state, and local levels. Key elements of this Initiative are regular reports on the state of the environment; focusing on improving indicators to report on conditions using measurable results; data partnerships with other federal, tribal, state, and local governments; and technology solutions to enable efficient exchange and access to indicator data.

In June 2003, EPA published our first national "Draft Report on the Environment," using available national level data and indicators to describe conditions and human health concerns. The report covers five "theme areas:" Cleaner Air, Purer Water, Better Protected Land, Human Health, and Ecological Condition. The draft report provides a frank discussion of what we know and don't know about the condition of our nation's environment. Following publication, EPA sought and received much feedback from interest groups, industry, and the public. While most everyone had suggestions for future versions, there was a very positive overall response.

Contribution to Environmental Outcomes

Through our outreach efforts, EPA invites governmental entities and non-governmental organizations to be our partners in the Environmental Indicators Initiative. Data from other federal agencies and departments, EPA regional offices, state and local government, tribes, and other sources will be vital to sustaining a long-term effort to improve the way we measure and report on the nation's environmental conditions.

Further information at www.epa.gov/indicators

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