Potential Benefits to Program Participants

Examples

(Drawn from review of EPA National Environmental Performance Track Program

and 12 similar state programs)

Recognition

- in local community

- by consumers

- special recognition (awards, plaques, flags, certificates)

- visibility in agency publications, web sites and events

- public announcements/ advertisements

- use of performance program logo

- window decals/ posters

- citation as example of best management practices

- preferred vendor status for government procurement

- recognition of trade associations that have 10% participation in program

Partnership Approach to Regulation

- permit streamlining/ consolidation

- “smart permits”/ “green permits” negotiated with agency to incorporate flexibility

- single point-of-contact within agency

- enforcement discretion/ problem-solving approach

- informational briefings with senior agency officials

- participation in development of new environmental performance programs

Regulatory Flexibility

- streamlined reporting requirements (for individual programs)

- consolidated reporting (for multiple programs)

- reduced monitoring requirements

- expedited review of certain types of new activities/ permit applications

- extension of permit terms

- low priority for inspection targeting

- participation in program considered in assessing civil penalties

- expedited review process for innovative technology

Financial Incentives

- emissions trading

- credits to be used for permit and emissions fees

- credits to be applied against future obligations under state environmental law (excluding fines or penalties)

- up to 10% reduction in fees for next two years (to be allocated to pollution prevention activities at facility)

- permit fee rebate up to 10% (capped at $5,000/facility)

- up to 25% reduction in hazardous waste trust fund/ Toxic Release Inventory fees paid to state for up to three years (to be allocated to pollution prevention activities at facility)

- product and service discounts offered by other program participants

Technical Assistance

- access to best practices database

- peer exchange networking opportunities

- technical assistance newsletters for participants

- free on-site pollution prevention assessment

- access to private sector environmental mentors

- access to information on financial incentives for pollution prevention