Policies and Practices

EPA has many clearly articulated policies, procedures, and best practices in place that relate to scientific integrityscientific integrity The adherence to professional practices, ethical behavior, and the principles of honesty and objectivity when conducting, managing, using the results of, and communicating about science and scientific activities. Inclusivity, transparency, and protection from inappropriate influences are hallmarks of Scientific Integrity. [EPA 2025 Scientific Integrity Policy]. These enhance the culture of scientific integrity at EPA and protect against scientific misconduct by any Agency employees, including managers and other Agency leadership. You can find links for the Scientific Integrity Policy, statutes, and other resources below.

On this page

• Scientific Integrity Policy
• Procedures & Best Practices
• Other 

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Scientific Integrity Policy

• EPA's Scientific Integrity Policy

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Procedures & Best Practices

Coordination Procedures for Allegations

• Coordination Procedures between the Scientific Integrity Official and the Office of Inspector General Regarding Scientific Misconduct Allegations

Differing Scientific Opinions

• Approaches for Expressing and Resolving Differing Scientific Opinions 

Best Practices for Authorship

• Authorship Best Practices

Best Practices for Clearance of Scientific Products

• Best Practices for Clearance of Scientific Products at EPA

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Other

• Environmental Protection Agency Acquisition Regulation (EPAAR); Scientific Integrity (Contracts Clause)
• EPA General Terms and Conditions Effective October 1, 2018 (Scientific Integrity Language for Grants)
• Policy and Procedures for Addressing Research Misconduct EPA Order 3120.5
• Scientific Integrity Timeliness Standard Operating Procedures (pdf) (237.76 KB)