Maintain Our Preparedness Level

In recent years the U.S. has faced challenges in responding to national significant incidents, including the Deep Water Horizon oil spill, the Japan nuclear emergency, and Superstorm Sandy.  These catastrophes and the possibility of similar events in the future make it clear that EPA must sustain our protection, prevention, mitigation, response and recovery capabilities.

EPA has worked diligently to achieve our current level of preparedness (e.g. number of responders, equipment procurement, proper training and exercising).  The resources and effort dedicated to improving our operational capabilities were a meaningful investment.  EPA will continue to pursue the most efficient and effective means to sustain our operational readiness for all hazards.

Fill Critical Knowledge and Technology Gaps

Scientific uncertainties will impede EPA's ability to prepare for and respond to major emergency events.  We must ensure that EPA's decision makers and field responders have the best available science and tools to do their jobs.  We must seek to advance and promote scientific research and technological innovation that enhances the Agency's, as well as our federal, state, tribal, and local partners', abilities to protect public health and the environment.   

Collaborate to Enhance Capability and Capacity

EPA needs the help of others in order to fulfill our mission of protecting human health and safeguarding the natural environment. Likewise, others need EPA's help to meet their respective missions.  EPA will continue to partner with other federal departments and agencies on homeland security-realted joint planning, research projects, technical demonstrations, field exercises, training and information sharing.  We will continue to collaborate with and seek input from our state, local and tribal counterparts, universities, industry and non-profit organizations.  This inclusive approach will facilitate the application of our collective capabilities and leverage each organization's unique body of knowledge, authorities, and assets to address common capacity and capability gaps.