Collecting EPA Data
EPA collects data to understand what’s happening in the environment and to make science‑based decisions that protect communities. Data collection is done in accordance with EPA’s mission and regulatory responsibilities to protect human health and the environment. This includes, but is not limited to, collecting data to identify pollution risks, enforcing environmental regulations, understanding environmental impacts, and guiding regulatory policy.
Before collecting information from the public, EPA must obtain approval from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) through an Information Collection Request (ICR). Once an ICR is approved, EPA may move forward with collecting the data through systems such as the Central Data Exchange (CDX). Learn more about these examples of ways EPA collects data.
| System | Description |
|---|---|
| Central Data Exchange (CDX) | EPA collects regulatory data from states, tribes, industries, and other entities through the CDX in compliance with EPA’s Cross Media Reporting Rule (CROMERR). The Rule sets performance-based, technology-neutral system standards and provides a streamlined, uniform process for Agency review and approval of electronic reporting. |
| Information Collection Requests | The Paperwork Reduction Act requires federal agencies to obtain Office of Management Budget approval prior to collecting information from the public. EPA’s Information Collection Request processes ensure the agency’s data collection processes align with federal requirements. |