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

If I need thorough training or updating, I always use Lion. Lion is always the best in both instruction and materials.

Bryce Parker

EHS Manager

Well designed and thorough program. Excellent summary of requirements with references. Inclusion of regulations in hard copy form, as well as full electronic with state pertinent regulations included is a great bonus!

Oscar Fisher

EHS Manager

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

Given the choice, I would do all coursework this way. In-person courses go very fast without the opportunity to pause or repeat anything.

Ellen Pelton

Chemical Laboratory Manager

The instructor does a great job at presenting material in an approachable way. I have been able to save my company about $30,000 in the last year with what I have learned from Lion!

Curtis Ahonen

EHS&S Manager

I can't say enough how pleased I was with this course! Everything finally makes sense.

Kim Graham

Lab Manager

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

Troy Yonkers

HSES Representative

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

Steve Gall

Safety Leader

The workshop covered a lot of information without being too overwhelming. Lion is much better, more comprehensive than other training providers.

George Alva

Manufacturing Manager

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

Download Our Latest Whitepaper

In-flight hazmat incidents can be disastrous. This guide gives 5 tips for first-time air shippers to consider before offering dangerous goods for transportation on passenger or cargo aircraft.

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.