Role and Use of Science at EPA

The role and use of science at EPA are determined by the nature of scientific information and how it fits within the context of Agency decision-making. Scientific information--whether it comes from EPA, other agencies, academia, the regulated community, or other sources--always includes some degree of uncertainty and is subject to varying interpretations. For example, assessments of risks to humans from exposure to chemicals are often based on tests in which laboratory animals are given high doses of a chemical. Effects seen in the animals may or may not appear in humans, who are typically exposed to much lower doses and whose bodies may metabolize the chemicals differently. In addition, there are often different scientifically justifiable ways to conduct risk assessments, and the method chosen by the assessor can significantly impact the risk estimate.

Scientific knowledge is not only uncertain, but also dynamic. Through research that is designed to reduce uncertainties, our understanding increases and, as a result, we change our assumptions about the impacts of environmental problems and how they should be addressed. For example, for many years we have been concerned mainly with removing large particles of toxic pollutants from airborne emissions. Now, however, research indicates that small particles of air pollutants may cause greater damage to human lungs than larger particles. This new information not only changes our understanding of the effects of

Science does not drive EPA's policy and regulatory decisions, but rather, along with other relevant factors, informs and supports those decisions. Implementation costs and technological feasibility, local autonomy versus federal control, and justice and equity--all of which impact our quality of life and standard of living--are among the considerations that need to be factored into EPA's decisions without compromising scientific integrity, the Agency's mission, or statutory mandates. The impacts or limitations of these non-science factors, as well as the current state-of-the-science, will influence how scientific considerations are brought to bear on a particular environmental problem facing the Agency.

Role and Use of Science at EPA

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