Search

EPA Launches Central Hub to Collect Ideas for Environmental Projects

Posted on 1/11/2024 by Nick Waldron

Often, settlements with US EPA for alleged environmental violations comprise a civil penalty and a Supplemental Environmental Project (SEP). SEPs are projects that the settling company or companies opt in to resolve allegations of environmental noncompliance and/or damage—and they can cost a large sum. The key difference between civil penalties and SEPs is that, with an SEP, the money is directly invested into the local community, rather than paid to a government agency who may do the same later.

EPA has accepted ideas for SEPs from the public for years. There was never a central place to send ideas, however, because ongoing settlement discussions are confidential.

As of last month, EPA has created a central medium for you to communicate your SEP ideas to the Agency so it may offer them to a settling party or defendant during confidential settlement discussions.

Understanding Supplemental Environmental Projects (SEPs)

An SEP is a voluntary project included in an enforcement settlement that provides an environmental or public health benefit. Projects like these are developed and implemented by the defendant/respondent (i.e., company facing allegations).

To be included in a settlement, the project must be highly relevant to the case being resolved. EPA reserves the right to veto SEPs that it does not think are appropriate for the case.

EPA does not give preference to specific project ideas and does not manage projects. Some companies are interested implementing an SEP but don't have one mind. Many enter talks with an idea for a project.

Submitting Your Ideas

EPA asks that you send your ideas to SEPideas@epa.gov with this information:

  • Short Title
  • Detailed Description
  • Public Health and/or Environmental Benefits
  • Information about the Location
  • Cost Information

The Agency allows for your personal/contact information to be included in case a defendant/respondent would like to reach out and speak with you about your SEP idea.

Never Miss an EPA Enforcement Roundup

Sign up for Lion’s    free, weekly newsletter to ensure you won’t miss Enforcement Roundups, EH&S insights and updates, and even free regulatory resources such whitepapers, guides, and cheat sheets.

Find a Post

Compliance Archives

Lion - Quotes

The training was impressive. I am not a fan of online training but this was put together very well. I would recommend Lion to others.

Donnie James

Quality Manager

I like the consistency of Lion workshops. The materials are well put together and instructors are top notch!

Kevin Pylka

Permitting, Compliance & Environmental Manager

I love that the instructor emphasized the thought process behind the regs.

Rebecca Saxena

Corporate Product Stewardship Specialist

The instructor had knowledge of regulations and understanding of real-world situations. The presentation style was engaging and fostered a positive atmosphere for information sharing.

Linda Arlen

Safety & Environmental Compliance Officer

I think LION does an excellent job of any training they do. Materials provided are very useful to my day-to-day work activities.

Pamela Embody

EHS Specialist

The instructor was very engaging and helped less experienced people understand the concepts.

Steve Gall

Safety Leader

More thorough than a class I attended last year through another company.

Troy Yonkers

HSES Representative

As always, Lion never disappoints

Paul Resley

Environmental Coordinator

Lion Technology workshops are amazing!! You always learn so much, and the instructors are fantastic.

Dorothy Rurak

Environmental Specialist

Lion was very responsive to my initial questions and the website was user friendly.

Michael Britt

Supply Chain Director

Download Our Latest Whitepaper

In most cases, injuries that occur at work are work-related and must be recorded to maintain compliance with OSHA regulations. This report shows you the 9 types of injuries you don’t record.

Latest Whitepaper

By submitting your phone number, you agree to receive recurring marketing and training text messages. Consent to receive text messages is not required for any purchases. Text STOP at any time to cancel. Message and data rates may apply. View our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.