The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has published the preliminary 2023 data from its Toxics Release Inventory (TRI). The data covers chemical releases, waste management, and pollution prevention activities reported by over 20,000 federal and industrial facilities across the United States. This release includes the addition of 21 new chemicals, notably nine per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), following the requirements set by the 2020 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).
PFAS in Focus
This year marks the fourth consecutive year of PFAS reporting in the TRI. PFAS are a group of man-made chemicals widely used in various industrial applications due to their resistance to water, oil, and heat. However, these chemicals have come under scrutiny due to their persistence in the environment and potential adverse health effects. The preliminary data reveals that 56 facilities reported managing over 1.5 million pounds of PFAS-related waste in 2023.
The EPA has taken steps to enhance transparency and public awareness regarding PFAS. In October 2023, the agency finalised a new rule that eliminates exemptions previously allowing facilities to avoid reporting PFAS usage when present in small concentrations. This change is expected to provide a clearer picture of PFAS emissions and their environmental impact, starting with the 2024 data.
Access to Data and Future Updates
The preliminary dataset, accessible via the EPA's Envirofacts website, offers the public valuable insights into how TRI facilities manage chemicals, including which chemicals are present and in what quantities. The EPA is conducting thorough quality checks to ensure data accuracy, with a revised dataset expected in October 2024. This revised dataset will incorporate any late submissions and corrections, forming the basis for the 2023 TRI National Analysis to be published in early 2025.
Public Engagement and Environmental Impact
The release of this data provides a critical resource for the public, researchers, and policymakers to assess chemical management practices and environmental impacts across the country. The EPA encourages active public engagement and the use of this data to support efforts in reducing pollution and promoting safer chemical practices.
For those interested in a deeper dive, the TRI website offers tools to explore the data, including detailed facility-level information and the option to download datasets. Further updates and tools are anticipated to be available by 7 August 2024.
For more detailed information and to explore the data, visit the EPA's TRI webpage. The EPA continues to monitor and enforce compliance with TRI reporting requirements, ensuring that the data reflects a comprehensive and accurate overview of chemical management practices in the United States.
