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Researchers: Information Sources
These resources provide links to various information sources to help students conduct research, collect data, and analyze environmental information.
Resources
Toxics Release Inventory (TRI)
The Toxics Release Inventory is a publicly available EPA database that
contains information on toxic chemical releases and other waste management
activities reported annually by certain industry groups. This inventory
was established under the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know
Act of 1986 (EPCRA) and expanded by the Pollution Prevention Act of 1990.
RCRA Online
This online database allows users to search publications and outreach
materials on a variety of waste related topics. Topics can be accessed
through a search of the database (click "Full Text Search"),
as well as by browsing through a list of topics (click "Topics Search")
ranging from batteries and chemicals, to hazardous waste and medical waste.
Major Environmental
Laws
This Web site provides an overview of many Federal laws affecting our
environment. This site is recommended for people interested in becoming
active in environmental, health, and community safety issues. A brief
description of the intent of each law is provided, as well as the requirements
of the law and what agencies enforce them. Laws related to solid waste
include the Pollution Prevention Act (PPA), the Resource Conservation
and Recovery Act (RCRA), and the Comprehensive Environmental Response,
Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA or Superfund).
Terms of the Environment
This comprehensive list defines in non-technical language the more commonly
used environmental terms appearing in EPA publications, news releases,
and other Agency documents. The list also includes acronyms and abbreviations.
Researchers
and Scientists
This Web site provides links to information demonstrating the role of
science at EPA, as well as links to scientific information that may be
useful in understanding and protecting our environment.
Office of Research and Development
This Web site describes the research that EPA conducts to safeguard both
human health and the environment. EPA's Office of Research and Development
(ORD) conducts research on ways to prevent pollution, protect human health,
and reduce risk. The work at ORD laboratories, research centers, and offices
across the country helps improve the quality of air, water, soil, and
the way we use resources.
Test Methods
Test
Methods and Guidelines
EPA has formulated hundreds of test methods that must be used by U.S.
laboratories when conducting analytical studies. Learn about specific
test methods for air, pesticides and toxic substances, solid waste, and
water.
ORCR Test Methods
EPA's Office of Resource Conservation and Recovery (ORCR) Methods Team provides expertise in analytical
chemistry and characteristic testing methodologies, environmental sampling
and monitoring, and quality assurance. Included on this Web site is information
on test methods
for evaluating solid wastes.