April 4, 2013, National Advisory Council for Environmental Policy and Technology (NACEPT) Meeting Summary 1

National Advisory Council for Environmental Policy and Technology 

(NACEPT) Meeting

April 4, 2013

Ariel Rios North, Room 3530

1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW

Washington, D.C. 20460

MEETING SUMMARY

Welcome, Introductions and Overview of the Agenda

Mark Joyce, Associate Director of the Office of Federal Advisory Committee Management and Outreach 

(OFACMO) and Acting Designated Federal Officer (DFO) for the National Advisory Council for 

Environmental Policy and Technology (NACEPT), U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA); 

William Ross, Jr., NACEPT Chair, Visiting Professor of Environmental Sciences and Policy and Duke 

Cancer Institute, Duke University; and 

Cynthia Jones-Jackson, Acting Director, OFACMO, EPA 

Mr. William Ross, Jr. (NACEPT Chair; Duke University) welcomed the NACEPT members participating 

in person and by teleconference/videoconference and called the roll. He expressed his appreciation to the 

NACEPT members for their great efforts in preparing the second advice letter. Mr. Ross thanked the EPA 

leadership and staff for their support as the NACEPT advises on sustainability topics. He recognized the 

NACEPT workgroup chairs and commended them for their hard work: Ms. Sara Kendall (Weyerhaeuser 

Company) and Dr. Ronald Meissen (Baxter International, Inc.) who chaired the Strengths Workgroup, 

and Ms. Bridgett Luther (Cradle to Cradle Products Innovation Institute) and Dr. Olufemi Osidele 

(Southwest Research Institute) who chaired the Breakthrough Objectives Workgroup. Mr. Ross 

commented that the members who had drafted the letter, especially Ms. Kendall, had created a substantive 

advice letter that efficiently integrates the workgroup recommendations.

Mr. Ross explained that during the meeting, the NACEPT members will consider the substantive content 

of the draft advice letter and vote on approving the letter to move the process forward. Minor edits or 

issues will be addressed by a smaller group, including Ms. Kendall, Mr. Ross, and Mr. Howard Learner 

(NACEPT Vice-Chair; Environmental Law and Policy Center) following the meeting.

Mr. Ross then provided an overview of the agenda. Mr. Bob Perciasepe, Acting Administrator, Office of 

the Administrator (OA), EPA, will share his thoughts about EPA’s sustainability initiatives. Ms. Kendall 

will provide a description of the second advice letter and NACEPT recommendations as well as present a 

few key points for discussion. Ms. Bicky Corman, Deputy General Counsel, Office of General Counsel

(OGC), will discuss current EPA sustainability efforts, and several EPA staff, including Mr. Edward

Fendley, Program Manager, Office of Sustainable Communities (OSC); Ms. Lisa Garcia, Senior Advisor 

to the Administrator for Environmental Justice; Dr. A. Stanley Meiburg, Deputy Regional Administrator, 

Region 4; and Dr. Michael Slimak, Director, Sustainable and Healthy Communities Research Program

(SHCRP), Office of Research and Development (ORD), will speak about the social pillar of 

sustainability. A public comment period will be provided prior to adjournment. Ms. Cynthia JonesJackson (Acting Director, OFACMO, EPA) explained that Adobe® Connect, a videoconference terminal, 

and a teleconference line are being used to connect participants to the meeting. 
2 April 4, 2013, National Advisory Council for Environmental Policy and Technology (NACEPT) Meeting Summary

In referencing Mr. William Blake’s poem The Tiger, Mr. Ross encouraged the NACEPT members to 

seize the fire of sustainability to help move the Agency and Nation forward in that crucial direction. 

Mr. Ross then welcomed Mr. Perciasepe, stating that the Council was honored and delighted that he was 

present to share his thoughts about sustainability and the NACEPT’s advice letter. 

Opening Remarks

Bob Perciasepe, Acting Administrator, Office of the Administrator (OA), EPA

Mr. Perciasepe welcomed the NACEPT members and thanked them for all of their efforts to advise EPA. 

He remarked that his comments will be brief to allow adequate time for discussion. Mr. Perciasepe 

explained that he is evaluating EPA’s budget details in preparation for upcoming hearings. Congress 

passed a continuing resolution (CR) that will fund EPA through the end of the year. Sequestration 

requires a $425 million (M) reduction in EPA’s budget, and the Senate included an additional $106 M 

reduction for EPA. Mr. Perciasepe is evaluating numerous options within EPA’s operating plan to 

decrease the number of furlough days for EPA employees, and he expressed hope that the furlough would 

be reduced to fewer than 13 days. 

Mr. Perciasepe explained that the concept of sustainability is a promising way to address the budget 

limitations. Identifying areas for improvement can result in achievements beyond the usual and 

sometimes expensive processes. Mr. Perciasepe expressed aspiration and confidence that developing 

incentive-based programs or incorporating sustainability concepts into regulatory programs will help EPA 

achieve the goals mandated by Congress and expected by the American public. He asserted that it was a 

productive place to begin the discussion. 

Another area to evaluate for efficiency includes partnerships with state agencies, who themselves are 

experiencing broadly reduced budgets. Sustainability is a good place to talk about the role of each partner 

and how work can be accomplished more efficiently. Other technological tools can improve EPA’s 

overall efficiency. Mr. Perciasepe pointed out that Congress is asking the Agency to accomplish a great 

deal while limiting the funding for its services. He reminded participants that “necessity is the mother of 

invention.” EPA has a history of innovation and must continue to pursue opportunities for efficiency.

Mr. Perciasepe thanked the NACEPT for all of its efforts to advise EPA; the guidance to date has been 

very helpful. He explained that the Agency continues to address the value proposition for embracing the 

sustainability concept. For example, the case statement would explain why EPA should be involved with 

sustainability and how building sustainability concepts into EPA’s efforts facilitates great work through 

improved efficiency. Another key is to build a foundation for sustainability to facilitate and streamline 

future efforts. Mr. Perciasepe acknowledged that EPA was in a leadership transition. Ms. Lisa Jackson, 

the former EPA Administrator, supported sustainability efforts and communicated their importance with 

EPA staff. The recently nominated Administrator, Ms. Gina McCarthy, also is a supporter of 

sustainability concepts. Following confirmation, EPA leaders will convene to ensure that the continuity of 

sustainability is articulated clearly to staff by Agency leadership. Mr. Perciasepe remarked on the need for 

the NACEPT’s continuing observations and encouragement.

Mr. Perciasepe noted that stakeholders (e.g., industry, communities, tribes, states) benefit from 

discussions to share ideas and transform them into action. Sustainability provides a safe and intellectual 

foundation that might bring more comfort to stakeholders than regulation or oversight. The power of 

sustainability is to bring people together and expand partnerships. 

Discussion

Mr. Robert Kerr (Pure Strategies, Inc.) stated that encouraging relationships between entities is a useful 

way to exploit opportunities. Design for the Environment is an example of leveraging partnerships to 

accomplish important goals.
April 4, 2013, National Advisory Council for Environmental Policy and Technology (NACEPT) Meeting Summary 3

Mr. Ross explained that Ms. Kendall had led the drafting of the NACEPT’s second advice letter, and the 

group would appreciate Mr. Perciasepe’s comments and observations as she presents the draft letter.

Overview and Discussion/Approval of NACEPT’s Second Advice Letter on Sustainability and the 

U.S. EPA

William Ross, Jr., NACEPT Chair, Visiting Professor of Environmental Sciences and Policy and Duke 

Cancer Institute, Duke University;

Sara Kendall, Vice President, Corporate Affairs, Sustainability and EHS, Weyerhaeuser Company; and

NACEPT Members

Ms. Kendall presented the draft advice letter to participants using Adobe® Connect and teleconference 

line. She reminded in-person participants to use their microphones so that attendees participating via 

teleconference could hear the comments. Ms. Kendall explained that she would present a high-level 

framework of the advice letter and mention several points for discussion. She assumed that all participants 

had already received the letter, so only salient details will be presented and discussed. 

Ms. Kendall summarized the charges to the NACEPT and the work approach that was employed. The 

NACEPT began with two detailed charges and formed two workgroups that considered different aspects 

of the charge questions. The first charge was to describe the challenges, barriers, opportunities, 

stakeholder engagement needs and recommendations to help EPA implement a sustainability strategy, 

while the second charge was to recommend a vision, mission, measurement system, ways to share 

progress, tools and 3- to 5-year breakthrough objectives to propel EPA’s sustainability implementation. 

The two workgroups developed separate work products containing some content that was discussed at the 

prior NACEPT meeting in August 2012, and some that had not yet been discussed by the full Council. 

Ms. Kendall explained that as she received feedback from the NACEPT members and EPA, the work 

products evolved into one succinct advice letter with merged content. The content of both workgroups is 

represented within the letter, and the logic flow is maintained. She encouraged NACEPT members to 

indicate if the essence of any discussion point had been missed in the draft letter. 

The NACEPT’s recommendations in providing an implementation roadmap for sustainability address 

three areas: aligning EPA on its path to sustainability, engaging stakeholders and demonstrating 

sustainability leadership. Most of the recommendations address EPA’s internal alignment. Many 

stakeholders are on their own sustainability journeys and opportunities to leverage expertise would be 

beneficial. The NACEPT recognizes that EPA already has demonstrated visible sustainability leadership

and has achieved numerous accomplishments, as presented by Mr. Craig Hooks (Assistant Administrator, 

Office of Administration and Resources Management, EPA). It is clear that EPA has a solid foundation of 

sustainability leadership and the recommendations are intended to further that progression.

The first five recommendations address internal EPA alignment on its path to sustainability. EPA 

possesses significant strengths that can be built upon to develop and deploy a sustainability strategy. A 

compelling mission statement, vision statement and goals will help to move the entire organization along 

that path. Showing leadership creates internal alignment. 

The second group of recommendations addresses stakeholder engagement, which EPA already 

encourages. Throughout discussions with EPA, the NACEPT members sensed that one concern facing the 

Agency is how to address the social pillar of sustainability. The NACEPT recommends engaging with 

communities already working on sustainability or those that would necessarily be involved in 

implementing a sustainable approach. EPA should consider identifying opportunities to share 

information, developing partnerships to leverage resources and collaborating to find sustainable solutions. 

The third category recommends the demonstration of sustainability leadership. The NACEPT recognizes 

the One EPA culture and finds compatibility with the strong sustainability theme. EPA has developed 

technology, programs and outreach activities, and has a strong presence across the entire country. The 
4 April 4, 2013, National Advisory Council for Environmental Policy and Technology (NACEPT) Meeting Summary

NACEPT members believe that EPA could demonstrate leadership for businesses, communities and 

within the federal government. Partnering with other agencies could advance EPA’s objectives and 

leverage the Agency’s strong foundation of addressing the environmental and human health aspects of 

sustainability. Ms. Kendall explained that the NACEPT recognizes EPA’s statute and limitations 

boundaries, but acknowledges that the Agency has a lot of resources (e.g., knowledge, experience) to 

demonstrate sustainability leadership. 

The NACEPT’s second advice letter on sustainability provides details for the recommendations and 

several subrecommendations where appropriate. Ms. Kendall referred the meeting participants to three 

topics discussed in depth by the workgroups that required consideration by the full Council. 

The first topic for discussion relates to the proposed vision statement. The draft advice letter currently 

presents two vision statements, and the NACEPT members should consider whether both options should 

be provided or decide on one to include. Ms. Kendall noted that both statements incorporate elements of 

sustainability and intergenerational needs that are not reflected in the existing EPA statement. The first 

option contains specific details about sustainability elements and is longer, while the second option is 

shorter and presented at a higher level. 

The second discussion topic concerns Recommendation 3, the mission statement. The vision statement is 

a declaration indicating EPA’s objectives and how resources could be leveraged, but the mission 

statement details how EPA will achieve that vision. The three mission statement options developed by the 

NACEPT cover all aspects of sustainability; differences exist in how the economic pillar is described. The 

reference to quality of life in the first option infers economic vitality. The second option employs the 

terms “well-being” and “benefit,” which are less specific, and the third option specifies the importance of 

long-term economic viability. The NACEPT can elect to include all three options in the advice letter, 

choose one option or create a different formulation altogether.

The third discussion point involves breakthrough objectives posited by the NACEPT. Ms. Kendall 

commented that the Breakthrough Objectives Workgroup successfully identified criteria to help EPA 

determine which breakthrough objectives to select for implementation. Mr. Learner had suggested adding 

an explicit statement to indicate that breakthrough objectives must remain consistent with EPA’s statutory 

limitations, which will be included in the final draft of the advice letter. Ms. Kendall mentioned that the 

workgroup originally had included more explicit details in the breakthrough objectives, which she had 

softened because several members were concerned with EPA’s regulatory obligations and the budget 

constraints facing the Agency. She encouraged careful consideration of what the Agency could achieve 

given its limitations. 

Ms. Kendall explained that the Breakthrough Objectives Workgroup had created a spreadsheet containing 

25 objectives that was reviewed by the NACEPT; nine objectives were selected for inclusion in the letter. 

The NACEPT can elect to include all nine breakthrough objectives in the advice letter, providing EPA

with the opportunity to select the best options for the Agency, or the members can select three to include 

in the letter. 

Ms. Kendall presented a graphic, developed by Mr. Yalmaz Siddiqui (Office Depot), depicting EPA’s 

internal alignment. The graphic can be used to align the 2020 breakthrough objectives and their goals, 

indicators and metrics across EPA’s program offices and regions.

Ms. Kendall asserted that in addition to deciding and finalizing the recommendations during the meeting, 

the NACEPT members would like to receive feedback from EPA on the revised draft. The Council had 

engaged in discussions with EPA staff throughout the drafting of the advice letter, but it would be useful 

to receive feedback prior to submitting the letter to the Administrator. 
April 4, 2013, National Advisory Council for Environmental Policy and Technology (NACEPT) Meeting Summary 5

Discussion

Mr. Ross expressed appreciation for the visionary graphic and thanked Ms. Kendall for the presentation. 

He reminded participants to speak clearly and loudly when offering their comments.

Ms. Kendall clarified that the NACEPT recommends that EPA select one to three breakthrough objectives 

for implementation to allow proper focus and mobilization. Agency officials indicated a preference for 

the NACEPT to include all nine breakthrough objectives in its recommendations to allow EPA to evaluate 

program priorities and progress with the options that work well within EPA’s framework (e.g.,

greenhouse gas reduction). 

Mr. Perciasepe thanked Ms. Kendall for the well-organized presentation and asserted that the 

recommendations will be very helpful moving forward. Mr. Perciasepe noted the relation between his 

opening comments and the NACEPT’s ideas concerning EPA’s internal alignment around sustainability.

Under the Government Performance and Results Act (GPRA), EPA is required to revise its strategic plan 

every 4 years, an effort that has commenced. A draft of the updated strategic plan will be available in 

June 2013, and will include places where sustainability concepts can be built into the Agency’s structure. 

Mr. Perciasepe acknowledged the importance of incorporating sustainability into ongoing work as 

opposed to creating different processes. EPA will decide how sustainability can be manifested given the 

current goals. Cross-cutting strategies were added to the previous strategic plan at the same stature as 

traditional statute-driven goals that EPA is mandated to implement. The inclusion of cross-cutting goals 

expanded the conversation of environmentalism to include the role of all Agency staff. Current 

discussions regarding sustainability involve how to build the concept as an independent strategy or 

include it within media-specific goals. 

Mr. Perciasepe noted the challenge of “stovepiping” within the Agency. Authorities granted by Congress 

tend to be problem-oriented and media-specific, not cross-cutting in nature. It is important that EPA be 

accountable to the responsibilities mandated by the U.S. Congress. A breakthrough concept was the 

creation of equally weighted cross-cutting issues that have been around for the past 4 years. NACEPT’s 

advice letter is timely given the revision of the Agency’s strategic plan. Mr. Perciasepe referred to the 

environmental justice (EJ) plan as an example of a cross-cutting strategy that was initiated in the previous 

strategic plan. The EJ plan identified high-level actions that were built into the strategic plan, including 

performance indicators. GPRA mandates the evaluation of key performance indicators. Mr. Perciasepe 

acknowledged that this is a good opportunity to integrate strategies, such as EJ and sustainability, into 

Agency management, and the Administration is working hard to achieve that goal. 

Mr. Perciasepe was intrigued by the breakthrough objectives and remarked that the ideas could be 

incorporated into the Agency’s structure. In his State of the Union Address, President Barack Obama 

called for a 50 percent improvement in energy productivity by 2030. A current federal program will 

double the fuel economy of automobiles by 2025. EPA’s ENERGY STAR program will advance similar 

objectives. The Alliance to Save Energy is a bipartisan, multistakeholder group that proposes to reduce 

greenhouse gases by 33 percent and create 1.3 M new jobs. Another breakthrough strategy pursued by 

EPA is to reduce the pollutants affecting public health. Mr. Perciasepe noted several other instances 

where EPA’s objectives and the NACEPT’s recommendations are aligned. 

Ms. Bicky Corman (Deputy General Counsel, Office of General Counsel, EPA) expressed appreciation to 

Ms. Kendall and the NACEPT members for their hard work in developing a great product. She 

commented that the softened language of the breakthrough objectives within this draft was preferable to 

the specific details that were included in previous drafts. Breakthrough objectives should not be too 

expensive or burdensome on the Agency. She also appreciated the inclusion of language indicating that 

EPA intends to work with stakeholders and promote others’ efforts to achieve the breakthrough 

objectives. Ms. Kendall pointed out that EPA’s achievements were reflected in the draft advice letter, and 

that breakthrough objectives could be achieved through incentives or traditional regulatory approaches.
6 April 4, 2013, National Advisory Council for Environmental Policy and Technology (NACEPT) Meeting Summary

Mr. Hooks commented that EPA is recognized as a leader in sustainability. He mentioned one challenge, 

which is to translate the sustainability efforts from the operational front into the programmatic front. This 

is even more challenging because budget constraints limit the Agency’s capacity to take on new tasks. He 

thanked the NACEPT for acknowledging these strengths and limitations within the draft advice letter. 

Mr. Hooks cautioned, however, that some of the breakthrough objectives might be worded too strongly. 

In particular, indicating percentages for actions that would impact the private sector might be interpreted 

as being too aggressive. EPA does not have the regulatory leverage to affect industry as desired.

Mr. Perciasepe commented that EPA is analyzing the employment potential of Agency sustainability 

efforts.

Dr. Alan Hecht (Director of Sustainable Development, Office of Research and Development, EPA)

commented that the NACEPT’s recommendations match similar business objectives, such as waste 

reduction. These similar objectives provide opportunities to partner and leverage resources.

Ms. Kendall expressed her appreciation for the input and remarked on the positive partnership between 

EPA and the NACEPT throughout the development of the advice letter. She acknowledged that the 

NACEPT understood the limitations imposed by GPRA and had an active discussion on whether 

sustainability should be a separate cross-cutting strategy. The Council ultimately decided that 

sustainability should be embedded in all cross-cutting strategies. Breakthrough objectives can be used 

efficiently to align programmatic goals and objectives across EPA. Ms. Kendall suggested that the 

Agency select several recommendations from the NACEPT letter for inclusion in the strategic plan.

Mr. Ross emphasized that NACEPT’s suggestion of a certain number of breakthrough objectives provides 

further flexibility for EPA. 

Dr. Osidele acknowledged the challenge of integrating sustainability into EPA’s next strategic plan. He 

pointed out that the advice letter addresses where sustainability could be included within the strategic 

plan. Dr. Fernando Abruña (Sustainable Architecture) praised Ms. Kendall’s efforts in softening the 

language and creating a more palatable advice letter. 

Mr. Learner recognized the opportunity and challenge in integrating cross-cutting issues given the 

statutory responsibilities of EPA under the Clean Air Act (CAA) and Clean Water Act (CWA). The 

challenge is to integrate sustainability in a way that is fully consistent with responsibilities under 

operating governing statutes. He suggested that responsibilities be layered within the existing statutory 

structure. Earlier conversations indicated that the OGC could make room for sustainability efforts under 

individual statutes on a program-by-program basis. Mr. Kerr concurred with the importance of indicating 

the aspects of statutes that relate to goal setting. 

Dr. Meiburg reiterated Mr. Perciasepe’s point about energy efficiency and the importance of linking 

recommendations to that sector to the extent possible. He suggested that breakthrough objectives and 

metrics are useful in focusing energy and attention, even if the Agency does not meet the goals. 

Mr. Siddiqui commented that breakthrough objectives are obtainable, measurable goals that advance an 

organization in a direction beyond its current capabilities. Given the complex economic climate and 

statutory constraints, breakthrough objectives should be prioritized based on the ability to deliver the most 

outcome in the shortest amount of time.

Dr. Dewitt John (Bowdoin College) explained that the advice letter includes language indicating that EPA 

should work with companies to set ambitious objectives. The business community should be engaged as 

partners in the process of implementing breakthrough objectives. Mr. Ross noted that page 5 of the letter 

contains text on goals set by companies. Mr. Hooks remarked that existing EPA programs (e.g.,

WasteWise, EnergyWise) collaborate with industry to achieve beneficial objectives.
April 4, 2013, National Advisory Council for Environmental Policy and Technology (NACEPT) Meeting Summary 7

Mr. Perciasepe noted that the 1972 CWA and subsequent policies set extensive goals within statutory 

mandates. Although the CWA set the goal to eliminate the discharge of toxic pollutants, the National 

Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) allows toxic pollutants to be discharged under certain 

circumstances. If the CWA had been implemented to the maximum extent, the goals would not have been 

achieved. Thus, one could argue that Congress must not be opposed to other incentive-based efforts that 

stretch beyond what the country can currently achieve. Mr. Perciasepe expressed no hesitation with 

partnering with industry and other stakeholders to develop “stretch” goals that move beyond EPA’s 

normal statutory authority efforts in a cooperative way. Creating space for innovation is imperative to 

achieve country-wide goals of no waste and water pollution. He cautioned, however, that EPA cannot 

force people to do things beyond its authority.

Mr. Ross expressed appreciation for the comments from Mr. Perciasepe and Mr. Hooks, who had other 

obligations and needed to leave the meeting. He solicited thoughts from the NACEPT members about the 

10-recommendation format and asked if that met the Council’s general approval. Dr. Osidele opined that 

10 is a good number and the condensation of the discussion into three groups of recommendations is 

appropriate. Mr. Learner agreed that the format of the advice letter works well. He approved of having 

several NACEPT members perform the final editing prior to delivering the advice letter to the Agency 

and suggested that any fundamental or substantive differences of opinion with regard to the content of the 

letter should be raised now by the NACEPT members. Dr. Edith A. Parker (University of Iowa) 

concurred with Mr. Learner and agreed that the draft is well done and the Council should proceed as 

suggested.

Mr. Ross solicited comments about the presentation of breakthrough objectives. A participant remarked 

that language should be added to indicate that the breakthrough objectives should be wholly consistent 

with the Agency’s statutes. 

Dr. Osidele requested clarification regarding Mr. Hooks’ comment about the recommendations being too 

strong. Mr. Derry Allen (Office of Environmental Policy Innovation, Office of Policy, EPA) explained 

that Mr. Hooks’ concerns were addressed in the current advice letter draft. Ms. Marian Pechmann Cooper 

(Office of Administration and Resources Management, EPA) elaborated that it is important to avoid 

placing constraints on industry in the form of indicator percentages that EPA might not achieve, although 

optimistic objectives provide a framework for program offices. Mr. Ross opined that the letter suggests 

numerous breakthrough objectives, and EPA can select the ones that are most appropriate for the Agency. 

A participant commented that the Agency is experiencing severe financial constraints, and the purpose of 

the NACEPT’s letter is to provide the best environmental policy and technology advice possible. EPA 

will decide how to act on the advice given the financial challenges. 

Ms. Kendall explained that she was taking notes during the discussion and will redraft some sections of 

the draft advice letter based on the NACEPT members’ and EPA’s comments. She called for any opinions 

regarding the inclusion of multiple options for the mission and vision statements within the letter. 

Ms. Kendall commented that the multiple versions were included in the draft to respect all of the 

NACEPT members’ input and to provide options for EPA to decide what works best for the Agency. Dr. 

Osidele suggested including all of the mission and vision statement versions to provide EPA with choices 

to suit its needs. The participants reached consensus and agreed that all of the mission and vision 

statement versions should be included in the advice letter. 

Mr. Mark Joyce (Acting DFO, NACEPT; Associate Director, OFACMO) provided a quote from 

Mr. Perciasepe to include for the placeholder on page 5 in the advice letter. The quote read, “The work 

EPA does today to protect human health and the environment is both critical and required by law. 

Embracing sustainability will ensure that work continues, but in new ways that enable the Agency to 

pursue its mission more efficiently, more cost-effectively and more successfully.” 
8 April 4, 2013, National Advisory Council for Environmental Policy and Technology (NACEPT) Meeting Summary

Mr. Learner moved to adopt the advice letter substantially as edited to reflect the NACEPT’s 

deliberations. The motion was seconded, and the motion to accept the advice letter passed unanimously.

Mr. Ross expressed appreciation to Ms. Kendall on behalf of the NACEPT members for her efforts in 

drafting the advice letter.

EPA’s Current Sustainability Efforts

Bicky Corman, Deputy General Counsel, Office of General Counsel (OGC), EPA

Ms. Corman emphasized that EPA is in a transition period that will continue until the nominated 

Administrator is confirmed. The Agency is continuing to move forward, however, on several fronts. Prior 

to departing, former Administrator Jackson sent a memorandum to staff stating her conclusion that the 

Agency should be embracing fully the principles of sustainability. 

Roundtable discussions were held in January 2013, to discuss the theme of sustainable manufacturing 

with representatives from industry, nongovernmental organizations and trade associations. The goal of 

hosting the discussions was to embrace sustainability more rigorously through Agency actions, and 

critical components include working with stakeholders to usher in a new era of collaboration and 

promoting the sustainability accomplishments of external organizations. Approximately 40 participants 

attended each roundtable discussion and expressed appreciation and interest in collaborating with EPA. 

Ms. Corman indicated that propelling sustainability through collaborative efforts enhances the objectives 

of partner organizations as well as those of EPA. The Agency is integrating sustainability into the 

fundamental cross-cutting strategies as well as other aspects of the strategic plan, core infrastructure and 

institutional components. Driving sustainability into EPA’s foundation will allow career employees and 

managers to provide consistency as political appointments depart the Agency.

Mr. Joel Makower (GreenBiz.com) published an interview with Administrator Jackson in January 2013,

describing her vision for the social component of sustainability within the Agency, given that it is not part 

of EPA’s mandate to protect human health and the environment. Ms. Jackson emphasized that EPA needs 

to be careful not to exceed its given authorities; the Agency is not responsible for increasing the social 

good of Americans. EPA is concerned with ensuring that the burden of environmental issues is borne 

equally and fairly. Many businesses have incorporated the social pillar into their visions and are 

evaluating EPA’s efforts. 

The Green Book, published in June 2012, indicated the need for a rigorous social sciences research 

portfolio. EPA has been considering what that means for the Agency. EPA has a solid record on EJ and 

has accomplished many successes in the community arena. Communities could drive the organization of 

sustainability approaches and application of the sustainability lens. 

Ms. Corman appreciated the NACEPT’s acknowledgement that the social aspect of sustainability is not 

expressly dictated in EPA’s statutory missions; other federal agencies are charged with the social aspect. 

It is important to identify where EPA can add value. 

Mr. Allen noted that the NACEPT meeting materials contain a document entitled, “Sustainability: The 

Social Pillar,” which outlines several questions that could inform the next charge question for the 

NACEPT. The document also lists several areas of current EPA involvement related to the social pillar of 

sustainability. Questions to consider include EPA’s suggested role and how the Agency might be more 

successful in incorporating elements of the social pillar into its activities. 

Discussion

Mr. Osidele asked Ms. Corman if the economic pillar garnered as much focus as the social pillar during 

meetings with the broad stakeholder community. Ms. Corman replied that lively discussions always 
April 4, 2013, National Advisory Council for Environmental Policy and Technology (NACEPT) Meeting Summary 9

surround the impacts of EPA activities on the economic arena; this has been occurring for decades. She 

expressed confidence that sustainable environmental interventions provide opportunities to increase the 

economic and social good. There has been less focus on the economic good of sustainability in 

stakeholder meetings. 

Ms. Corman disagreed that influencing the economic and social pillars was beyond EPA’s capability and 

statutory authority. EPA has a lot of scientific expertise related to economics, including cost-benefit 

analyses. Economic scientists, but not social scientists, are employed throughout EPA offices. One 

challenge to hiring social scientists in response to recommendations is the severe financial constraint 

currently imposed on the Agency.

Mr. Ross asserted that protecting public health is a strong social component. Ms. Corman explained that 

EPA has considered strongly whether health belongs under the environmental or social pillar. The statutes 

require protection of human health and the environment; EPA focuses on the impact of pollution in 

various media on human health, which might be a broader definition of health than that used by the 

Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). EPA could consider impacts of the environment on 

mental health (e.g., the effects of green infrastructure on mental health and productivity). Dr. Osidele 

remarked that identifying the transition line between EPA’s responsibility and that of other federal 

agencies is important.

Mr. Kerr mentioned that the University of Washington’s Department of Ecology evaluated epidemiologic 

health needs and linked them to environmental health factors. The interdependence of these

environmental and health factors explains the high prevalence of obesity, learning disorders and so forth. 

Mr. Allen agreed that this would be a relevant concept as the NACEPT embarks on its evaluation of the 

role of EPA within the social pillar. Mr. Ross remarked on the increasing interest and action at the 

intersection of the social and environmental aspects of sustainability. Ms. Corman agreed, noting that lead 

poisoning leads to intellectual degradation at an economic and health cost to society. Mr. Kerr 

commented that a broader application of the environmental-health interdependence would be useful. 

Ms. Kendall cautioned EPA to refrain from viewing the social and economic pillars as independent 

elements; rather, the Agency should seek holistic solutions. Although EPA’s authorizing statutes might 

not dictate the creation of social good or economic development, the Agency has a strong history of 

incorporating these elements into its programs. Ms. Kendall explained that the NACEPT specifically 

refrained from recommending sustainability as a separate cross-cutting issue in favor of infusing the 

strategy throughout all programs. She mentioned that many businesses, including her own company, are 

trying to achieve the same goal. Ms. Corman agreed that viewing the sustainability elements of economic, 

social and environment as “pillars” might be counterproductive because they are in fact holistic systems. 

She emphasized that capitalizing on EPA’s strengths is important to accomplish the greatest impacts

given the available tools. 

Mr. Ross welcomed and introduced the panelists to discuss EPA’s efforts related to the social pillar of 

sustainability. He expressed appreciation for their efforts in preparing for and attending the meeting. The 

presentations were sent via email to NACEPT members participating by teleconference.

The Social Pillar of Sustainability I

A. Stanley Meiburg, Deputy Regional Administrator, Region 4, EPA

Dr. Meiburg described a regional view of EPA and social sustainability. He remarked that the term

“sustainability” is applied in different ways depending on the speaker. Sustainability can be viewed 

through a community lens, ecosystem lens, or within an industrial and manufacturing context. These 

related perspectives all present different aspects, which can create uncertainty. Dr. Meiburg encouraged 

clarity when discussing sustainability and explained that his presentation would address the community 

lens as it relates to the social pillar.
10 April 4, 2013, National Advisory Council for Environmental Policy and Technology (NACEPT) Meeting Summary

Dr. Meiburg acknowledged that the social pillar has not been EPA’s core historic focus. The Agency’s 

prescribed work already is overdetermined given all of its statutory obligations. The historic skill set of 

EPA includes scientists, engineers and attorneys, and its historic tools involve regulation and 

enforcement. The social pillar matters, however, because EPA’s mission is to protect human health and 

the environment, which requires many tools in addition to statutory ones. Core tools are essential but not 

sufficient, and voluntary actions are as important as required actions in achieving the Agency’s mission. 

Dr. Meiburg asserted that the mission statement should be changed, but its broad perspective is a strength. 

EPA is challenged by the social pillar because communities constantly request actions (e.g., Superfund, 

enforcement context) that exceed EPA’s authority and/or resources. For example, a zoning requirement 

may be an underlying issue in addressing a community problem, but EPA does not control local zoning. 

Although EPA has 17,000 employees, the Agency still must partner with state and other entities when its 

resources are exceeded (e.g., stationing people in a particular location). 

Dr. Meiburg noted that another challenge is that EPA’s technical standards and regulations do not 

promote community trust. It is important, therefore, that EPA correct misunderstandings and 

communicate effectively to communities. 

The final social pillar challenge involves community problems, such as environmental issues, that are 

outside of EPA’s jurisdiction (e.g., provision of street lighting). Communities might think that EPA is 

being nonresponsive, when in actuality the Agency cannot address the issue as requested. Dr. Meiburg 

acknowledged the significant challenge for the NACEPT in evaluating EPA’s role relating to the social 

pillar.

Importantly, EPA’s partners possess additional tools that can be leveraged to achieve greater 

effectiveness, so the way to move ahead is to forge strong collaborative partnerships. Partnerships 

accomplish many objectives, including reframing issues, providing additional tools, leveraging resources, 

translating bureaucratic language (e.g., decoding acronym-heavy terms), educating communities and 

fostering a common understanding. A successful collaboration such as the Partnership for Sustainable

Communities between EPA, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and the U.S. Department of 

Housing and Urban Development (HUD) leverages resources, funding and technical expertise to 

accomplish the program objectives. Partnerships can build on a foundation of trust (e.g., local universities 

or health care providers) to engage communities in EPA’s efforts. 

Pursuing partnerships requires that EPA operate as a convener and facilitator in addition to its historic 

role as a regulator. The role of facilitator is consistent with EPA’s mission to protect human health and 

the environment. Facilitation requires augmented skill sets, including improved communication as well as 

social and behavioral science research to produce insights about how to produce real change in a 

community. As a social scientist, Dr. Meiburg asserted that increasing the numbers of social scientists at 

the Agency would be useful.

EPA’s statutory mandates pose a challenge to incorporating the social pillar into Agency efforts because 

resources already are oversubscribed. Another challenge is the acceptance of a broader perspective of 

EPA responsibilities, which might conflict with the mandated responsibilities and what must be done to 

achieve the mission. The final obstacle to incorporating the social pillar is limited resources. Despite these 

challenges, it is important for the Agency to consider implementing the social pillar of sustainability to 

achieve its objectives. 

Discussion

Dr. Abruña stated that, in his experience as an architect, he has observed the inherent difficulty engineers 

have in understanding the community design process. 
April 4, 2013, National Advisory Council for Environmental Policy and Technology (NACEPT) Meeting Summary 11

In response to a question from Ms. Corman, Dr. Meiburg explained that his foundation as a social 

scientist allows him to ask questions from a different perspective and understand the government 

framework. This perspective also is useful in understanding how communities organize, where the center 

of influence is located, and how to communicate effectively. Social science also seeks understanding for 

effective communication and how to ensure that communities hear and understand EPA messages. For 

example, in a Superfund site community, samples may be taken from many different yards, but only some 

require remediation; effective communication reduces confusion within the community about the process

and the actions. Explaining the resource constraints and science underlying the contamination standards 

requires a high level of skill. 

Dr. Parker asked if social scientists should be integrated within ORD. Dr. Meiburg explained that social 

scientists are helpful in regional offices that work directly with communities. Project managers who can 

assess contaminant risk and understand the dynamics of communicating to a community forum are most 

useful. 

Dr. John commented that the NACEPT’s prior advice letter, which addressed EPA’s workforce, 

emphasized the need for EPA to hire individuals with different types of expertise, including social 

scientists. He remarked that scientists trained in the past 10 years have been exposed to interdisciplinary 

training that incorporates technical as well as social aspects. Dr. John acknowledged that EPA is in a 

difficult position, given the sequestration, temporary lack of a confirmed Administrator and loss of faith 

by some environmental groups. He asked if there were actions that could strengthen EPA’s capacity at the

regional level. Dr. Meiburg responded that EPA’s statutes are quite constrained and have existed for 25 

years without a major reevaluation. The statutes were created with the perspective of a different era; they 

work well in some areas but are less effective with communities. A thoughtful revisitation of the statutes 

might allow the Agency more flexibility to pursue the broader mission of protecting human health and the 

environment. Dr. John expressed concern with the complication of revisiting statutes through Congress 

and suggested approaching the issue using a bottom-up approach. Identifying successful regional 

activities might be useful. 

The Social Pillar of Sustainability II

Lisa Garcia, Senior Advisor to the Administrator for Environmental Justice, EPA

Ms. Garcia focused her remarks on EPA’s EJ priority and the desire to integrate EJ into all EPA activities. 

The concept of sustainability embraces EJ and much synergy exists. The first principle of EJ is 

meaningful engagement and outreach. Meaningful engagement of stakeholders (e.g., industry, 

government) in processes—such as pollution management planning—allow the development of 

innovative ideas and holistic solutions that accomplish sustainability objectives. Ms. Garcia asserted that 

the NACEPT provides an understanding of all possible ways to inform decision making and advance 

sustainability in all EPA actions. 

Another principle of EJ speaks to the fair treatment of all people, focusing on low-income minority and 

tribal populations, which tend to experience disproportionately high rates of conditions such as obesity.

When considering the levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5), EPA evaluates levels across the Nation but 

also considers the location of PM2.5 “hotspots” because pollution loading in certain populations poses a 

greater burden. For example, Prevention of Significant Deterioration (PSD) Permits evaluate the level of 

pollutant in addition to asthma rates of the local population. A further evaluation of low-income, minority 

areas with a high burden of asthma rates encourages the consideration of what can be done within EPA’s 

authority to develop alternative solutions. 

Community benefits should be considered when evaluating alternative sustainability efforts. Encouraging 

community engagement of the public and academia will provide better alternatives than would be 

identified by an isolated laboratory scientist. An example of this occurs during the siting of a power plant. 

Different interest groups advocate for either water or air cooling of the plant. One group opposes water 
12 April 4, 2013, National Advisory Council for Environmental Policy and Technology (NACEPT) Meeting Summary

cooling because of its effects on marine life, while another group of citizens opposes air cooling because 

it is very loud and produces disruptive steam. In this situation, alternatives need to be analyzed carefully 

in consideration of the effects on all stakeholders.

When considering EJ principles from the context of the social pillar, evaluating community-based 

priorities and including everyone “at the table” is important. Ms. Garcia noted that the advice letter 

effectively speaks to stakeholder engagement, as well as improving community-based outreach and 

coordination throughout the Agency. Especially in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy, community 

resiliency and adaptation is an important avenue of research, in addition to topics of climate change, EJ 

and innovative technology.

Discussion

Dr. Osidele asked about social science research priorities for EPA’s ORD. Ms. Garcia commented that 

given the Agency’s financial constraints, it is difficult to choose between hiring a toxicologist or social 

scientist, but an individual who understands the cumulative effects of pollution on overburdened areas can 

be helpful in addressing relevant social science issues. EPA scientists are beginning to investigate 

cumulative risk assessments. Historically, analysts would monitor the emissions of one smokestack in one 

facility, but it is important to evaluate the cumulative effect of emissions from all smokestacks in the area, 

as well as the traffic burden and other potential sources in that area. Social scientists can assess why obese 

individuals who lack health care access are more vulnerable and how that information can be incorporated 

into risk assessments.

Mr. Kerr remarked that other federal agencies possess social science expertise that EPA could potentially 

tap. He mentioned an example in which an agency collaborated with the Centers for Disease Control and 

Prevention (CDC) to obtain the epidemiological expertise needed for a project. Doing so leveraged 

resources and was more efficient and cost effective. One idea would be to collaborate with the HHS to 

obtain data on health disparities and correlate the information with locations of polluting facilities. 

Mr. Ross added that universities, particularly their schools of public health and the environment, also 

could be of service to EPA by supplying social science and other expertise not available within the 

Agency.

Dr. Parker informed participants that the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) 

collaborated with EPA on a project to conduct extensive exposure assessments near roads to examine 

particulate matter and associated health effects. Thinking strategically and encouraging participatory 

research will elicit great dividends. 

Ms. Corman asked for suggestions for breakthrough objectives for social science that would be the most 

effective. Dr. Parker replied that cumulative exposure is one such avenue for research, as well as 

embracing participatory approaches. A recent application of the community participatory approach in 

Detroit, Michigan, allowed community members to direct the location of monitors. Dr. Parker cautioned 

against hiring many social scientists without first exploring the expertise available through EPA partners. 

Dr. Osidele agreed that it would not be a good use of EPA’s financial resources, as much social science 

research is being performed already. In response to an earlier comment by Ms. Garcia, Dr. Osidele stated 

that the best EPA staff member would be an individual with broad systems thinking who can cross 

disciplinary borders, as the NACEPT recommended in its first advice letter. 

Dr. Hecht suggested that EPA consider the driving forces behind EJ as it considers communicating and 

implementing sustainability concepts. Identifying lessons learned from the EJ movement will enable EPA 

to propel sustainability forward.
April 4, 2013, National Advisory Council for Environmental Policy and Technology (NACEPT) Meeting Summary 13

The Social Pillar of Sustainability III

Michael Slimak, Director, SHCRP, ORD, EPA

ORD is the research arm of EPA that serves all programs and regions. Regional research programs are 

designed and organized to support regional decision making. Several years ago, former EPA Assistant 

Administrator, Dr. Paul Anastas, requested that ORD be reorganized around a sustainability paradigm. As 

a result, ORD created six national programs that all contain a sustainability focus. The SHC is at the 

forefront of adopting sustainability concepts. Dr. Slimak presented a conceptual framework for a 

sustainable community, which leads to the conservation of natural capital, community-level economic 

resilience, and better health outcomes and increased well-being. Economically resilient communities are 

able to overcome the effects of natural disasters, which relates to the economic pillar. Whether human 

health is part of the social or environmental component of sustainability has generated an intense debate. 

It is clear, however, that all three sustainability pillars are inextricable and interdependent. 

A community that achieves sustainable environmental quality will result in positive outcomes in 

economic and social pillars. This hypothesis will be tested within the SHC, focusing on the environmental 

pillar and resulting health outcomes and improved social well-being. Although ORD is not conducting 

research on the economic pillar, available data can be used to support or disprove the hypothesis. The 

SHC will address questions such as whether forms of governance of a community or geophysical location 

are important variables in achieving sustainability. New Orleans, Louisiana, for example, is significantly 

different than Denver, Colorado, and understanding the different approaches to achieve sustainable 

outcomes is important.

EPA needs to conduct more social science research, yet is limited by resources and human capital. Many 

new scientists possess a more transdisciplinary research background. Researchers seek to understand 

human behavior and individual value systems. For example, they might try to understand why some 

participants brought a plastic bottle of water to the meeting while others brought a reusable bottle. 

Understanding human behavior will help address the social pillar. EPA is required to implement 

enumerated and limited statutes, and individual or collective behavior research is viewed as outside of the 

Agency’s mission. 

Working with the conceptual framework, a community that is sustainable will protect and improve the 

health and well-being of all residents, provide opportunities for public and private investments, enhance 

social equity, conserve its natural resources and promote open space. Communities rarely focus on all of 

the principles, but a systems-based approach will improve a community’s ability to simultaneously 

address all of the objectives. 

Dr. Slimak explained that the SHC has identified the sectors most important to community decision 

making, including land use, transportation, infrastructure, drinking water and waste management. 

Communities spend a lot of time thinking about these issues, but tend to consider them independently.

The SHC is designed to help communities develop tools to better understand the community decision 

sectors from a systems perspective. Dr. Slimak commented that the SHC’s detailed research plan can be 

found on ORD’s website. 

Discussion

Dr. Osidele and Ms. Corman asked what social science research efforts would be most valuable to the 

Agency. Understanding and categorizing human behavior enables the development of tools to address 

technology and decision making. Dr. Osidele referred participants to a cartoon depicting people drawing 

water out of a well: the person with the powerful pump does not support limits on water use, while the 

other individuals support such limits. Dr. Slimak suggested developing tools to identify and understand 

human behavior and determine what is needed to adjust the behavior. He mentioned that newly hired 

social scientists would be asked to evaluate the conceptual framework and identify research questions to 
14 April 4, 2013, National Advisory Council for Environmental Policy and Technology (NACEPT) Meeting Summary

understand why certain individuals are more interested in sustainable issues (e.g., green technologies, roof 

gardens) and to identify what drives individual behavior. Other research questions might address 

education or EJ issues. There are many questions in the realm of the social science arena that are 

important to understanding and achieving sustainability.

Dr. Parker asked if university research provides a source of information that EPA could leverage. 

Dr. Slimak asserted that much research exists in academia and the literature, regarding environmental 

quality, public health, and ecosystem goods and services, and the SHC intends to utilize those resources

to develop testable hypotheses. It is conceivable that EPA might not need to conduct much original 

research because of the wealth of available information. Some of that research, however, might be 

conducted in a way that is not relevant to the concept of sustainability that is being developed in the SHC. 

The Social Pillar of Sustainability IV

Edward Fendley, Program Manager, OSC, EPA

Mr. Fendley presented the OSC’s sustainability perspective on smart growth and the social pillar of 

sustainability, which inherently cuts across media of land, air and water. He explained the OSC’s efforts 

to address the environmental, economic and social pillars of sustainability. The OSC applies tools to 

assist communities with their implementation of sustainable approaches rather than dictate regulations. 

Mr. Fendley noted that the approach has been successful, resulting in friendships and increased trust of 

EPA in communities. 

Smart growth generates compact, mixed-use communities that are beneficial to community sustainability, 

and EPA Smart Growth technical assistance contributes directly to participation and social cohesion in 

recipient communities. Smart growth contributes to each of the social pillar elements, including 

awareness of sustainability, participation, equity and social cohesiveness. Social cohesiveness contains an 

element of community integration and is related to the notion of equity. The smart growth approach 

allows for people of different income levels, professions and ethnicities to live together and interact 

through walkable neighborhoods and choices in housing and transportation. In this respect, the smart 

growth built environment increases equity, community engagement and diversity. 

Mr. Fendley remarked that humans lived in sustainable community settlements for 10,000 years. Only in 

the latter part of the 20th century have communities deviated from that strategy in the form of dispersed 

housing, shopping and jobs. Evidence indicates that the traditional approach is rising in favor. Compact, 

mixed-use communities have cleaner air and water, better human health and a smaller carbon footprint.

Describing how the built environment affects environmental sustainability builds awareness, and 

communicating these concepts contributes to engagement with the social pillar of sustainability. 

Community engagement and participation include the propensity to form associations. Traditionally, this 

occurred in the form of a town meeting, but the participatory model changed in the 20th century. A quote 

from a 1964 newspaper indicated that, “When the highway engineers have concluded that a highway 

should be built, then experts should be satisfied and permit the program to go ahead,” indicating that the 

decision, which affected communities, would not be subjected to community debate. This results in 

severe consequences, including the separation of residential zones from shopping areas and challenges in

traveling between them. Current participation models encourage community engagement in decision 

making, and the OSC has experienced much success with the model. For example, in Brownsville, 

Pennsylvania, community members, including youth, participated in a community visioning process to 

develop a community park. Young people are optimistic and have fresh ideas. 

Smart growth and EJ have overlapping goals with regard to equity, including the importance of investing 

in existing communities and the provision of transportation and housing choices. Transportation choices 

are not equitable if people who are unable to drive (e.g., due to age or lack of a vehicle) cannot get to their 
April 4, 2013, National Advisory Council for Environmental Policy and Technology (NACEPT) Meeting Summary 15

destinations. Affordable housing is very important. People feel welcome where these equitable principles 

are applied. 

Social cohesiveness includes “infrastructure planning that supports social integration and environmental 

sustainability,” and is the suggested lens to analyze the social pillar. Smart growth provides public and 

quasi-public spaces to promote incidental interaction, which is beneficial for the social pillar of 

sustainability but also encourages innovation and improves the economy.

Discussion

Dr. Abruña concurred with the importance of architecture, public space, transportation and infrastructure 

design in promoting the social component of sustainability. New urbanism and traffic-oriented 

development are current concepts pursuing the ideals of smart growth. 

Public Comments

Mr. Ross called for public comments and none were offered.

Next Steps

Ms. Corman expressed appreciation for the opportunity to learn about how environmental interventions 

yield a social impact. A corollary is how EPA can influence the social arena to accomplish particular 

environmental objectives. Dr. Slimak agreed with the importance of modifying human behavior to favor 

sustainable actions; effective communication will play a large role. 

Mr. Allen opined that an exploration of the social pillar is an excellent subject for the NACEPT to address 

next, and the OP is willing to help the Council organize around the topic. The first step will be to develop 

a charge question for the NACEPT. The questions provided in the “Sustainability: The Social Pillar” 

document, provided in the meeting materials, comprise a starting point, and additional questions could 

evolve as the process continues. There is potential for the NACEPT to explore additional dimensions of 

sustainability beyond the social pillar. EPA might value broader advice during the transition period.

Ms. Jones-Jackson expressed appreciation to Ms. Corman and Mr. Allen for developing questions for the 

NACEPT to inform the next charge question addressing the social pillar. Mr. Ross concurred that the 

questions provide a good starting point. He suggested that several interested Council members participate 

in an exploratory discussion to formulate a path forward. Mr. Kerr and Drs. John, Parker and Osidele 

agreed to participate in the exploratory meeting. The invitation to participate in a preliminary discussion 

will be extended to NACEPT members who did not attend the meeting.

Ms. Kendall commented that it would be useful to consider how EPA can demonstrate resiliency in the 

face of budget constraints by creatively assessing opportunities to do things differently. For example, 

EPA can leverage social science resources at external organizations, which might be more complicated 

than doing the work in-house, but also might be more robust. EPA has thoughtfully addressed issues of 

environmental justice and risk assessment even when not specifically mandated by statutory authorities. 

Dr. Osidele suggested that the charge question include an investigation and inventory of resources 

available outside of EPA. A literature review would be a useful place to begin to identify available 

resources in the research community and industry. Dr. John commented that an analysis of EPA’s needs 

could be correlated with the external resources.

Mr. Joyce reiterated the two tasks facing the Council: complete the second advice letter on sustainability 

and further refine the next charge question. He suggested that Council members send any specific word

changes for the advice letter to Ms. Kendall by April 12, 2013, and she will incorporate them into the 

final draft. Ms. Kendall also will modify the draft to reflect the Council’s deliberations during the meeting 
16 April 4, 2013, National Advisory Council for Environmental Policy and Technology (NACEPT) Meeting Summary

and add the quote from Mr. Perciasepe. Ms. Kendall stated that she preferred to receive comments and 

revisions in the form of an edited, redlined document. The final draft will be reviewed by Mr. Ross and 

Mr. Learner prior to distribution.

Mr. Joyce solicited comments on how the charge questions could be further refined to provide greater 

direction to the NACEPT. Ms. Corman clarified that the NACEPT is being asked to provide guidance on 

the social pillar of sustainability. Mr. Allen stated that the Council should address the social pillar, and 

additional topics might be added as the deliberations proceed. 

The participants discussed the format of future NACEPT meetings, which most likely will occur via 

teleconference/videoconference given the current budget limitations. Ms. Jones-Jackson mentioned that 

there might be a face-to-face meeting scheduled in August or September 2013, but it is not definite. 

Mr. Joyce said he expected the format of future meetings to be the same as this meeting, at least for the 

remainder of the fiscal year. Ms. Kendall opined that working on a targeted charge is preferable; 

organizing the process by teleconference will be more complicated.

In response to a question, Ms. Jones-Jackson explained that teleconferences can be scheduled monthly or 

at any other interval deemed necessary by the Council. Mr. Ross stated that the NACEPT will conduct 

one or two exploratory calls to refine the charge and then will develop an effective plan and schedule to 

accomplish the objectives.

Mr. Ross extended his gratitude to the EPA staff members for their assistance in planning the meeting and 

providing input on the substance of the advice letter. He congratulated the NACEPT members, especially 

Ms. Kendall, for their hard work in responding to the charge question and drafting the second advice 

letter on sustainability. Ms. Jones-Jackson expressed appreciation to the NACEPT members under the 

leadership of Mr. Ross for their efforts and invaluable advice. She also thanked the EPA personnel for 

their assistance and contributions.

Mr. Ross asked for any final thoughts or observations. There being none, he adjourned the meeting at 

4:00 p.m. EDT. 
April 4, 2013, National Advisory Council for Environmental Policy and Technology (NACEPT) Meeting Summary 17

Action Items

 Ms. Kendall will incorporate the discussion comments and revisions, as well as the quote from Acting 

Administrator Perciasepe, into the draft advice letter.

 NACEPT members will send any additional suggestions for specific word changes for the draft 

advice letter to Ms. Kendall by April 12, 2013. These comments/revisions should be in the form of a 

tracked changes document.

 Ms. Kendall, Mr. Ross and Mr. Learner will review the final draft of the advice letter prior to 

submission to the Agency.

 NACEPT members who are interested in exploring the social pillar of sustainability will participate in 

an exploratory discussion to formulate a path forward to address the topic. The invitation to 

participate in a preliminary discussion will be extended to NACEPT members who did not attend the 

meeting.
18 April 4, 2013, National Advisory Council for Environmental Policy and Technology (NACEPT) Meeting Summary

National Advisory Council for Environmental Policy and Technology (NACEPT)

Meeting Participants

NACEPT Members

Dr. Fernando Abruña

Architect

Sustainable Architecture Abruña and Musgrave,

Architects

San Juan, PR

Dr. Patricia M. Gallagher

Associate Professor

Provost’s Fellow in Sustainability

Department of Civil, Architectural and

Environmental Engineering

Drexel University

Philadelphia, PA 

Dr. Dewitt John 

Thomas F. Shannon Distinguished Lecturer in

Environmental Studies

Bowdoin College

Brunswick, ME

Ms. Sara Kendall

Vice President

Corporate Affairs

Sustainability and EHS 

Weyerhaeuser Company

Federal Way, WA

Mr. Robert Kerr

Co-Founder and Principal 

Pure Strategies, Inc.

Reston, VA

Mr. Howard Learner (NACEPT Vice-Chair)

Executive Director

Environmental Law and Policy Center

Chicago, IL

Dr. Olufemi Osidele

Senior Research Engineer

Geosciences and Engineering Division

Southwest Research Institute 

San Antonio, TX

Dr. Edith A. Parker

Professor and Head

Department of Community and Behavioral

Health

College of Public Health

University of Iowa

Iowa City, IA

Mr. William G. Ross (NACEPT Chair)

Visiting Professor of Environmental Sciences

and Policy and Duke Cancer Institute

Nicholas School of the Environment

Duke University

Durham, NC

Mr. Yalmaz Siddiqui

Senior Director

Environmental Strategy

Office Depot

Boca Raton, FL

NACEPT Acting Designated Federal Officer

Mr. Mark Joyce

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Office of Federal Advisory Committee

Management and Outreach (OFACMO)

1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW (1601M)

Washington, D.C. 20460

Phone: (202) 564-2130

Email: joyce.mark@epa.gov

EPA Participants

Derry Allen

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Ariel Rios Building (CHL)

1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW

Washington, D.C. 20460

Phone: (202) 566-2167

Email: allen.derry@epa.gov

Daniel Amon

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Ariel Rios Building (3204R)

1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW

Washington, D.C. 20460

Phone: (202) 564-7509

Email: amon.dan@epa.gov
April 4, 2013, National Advisory Council for Environmental Policy and Technology (NACEPT) Meeting Summary 19

Denise Benjamin-Sirmons

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Ariel Rios Building (3903R)

1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW

Washington, D.C. 20460

Phone: (202) 564-6771

Email: benjamin-sirmons.denise@epa.gov

Marian Pechmann Cooper

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Ariel Rios Building (3101A)

1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW

Washington, D.C. 20460

Phone: (202) 564-0620

Email: cooper.marian@epa.gov

Bicky Corman

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Ariel Rios Building (2310A)

1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW

Washington, D.C. 20460

Phone: (202) 564-4332

Email: corman.bicky@epa.gov

Edward Fendley

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Ariel Rios Building (1807T )

1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW

Washington, D.C. 20460

Phone: (202) 566-9555

Email: fendley.ed@epa.gov

Ann-Marie Gantner

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Ariel Rios Building (1601M)

1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW

Washington, D.C. 20460

Phone: (202) 564-4330 

Email: gantner.ann-marie@epa.gov

Lisa Garcia

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Ariel Rios Building (1101A)

1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW

Washington, D.C. 20460

(202) 564-1259

Email: Garcia.lisa@epa.gov

Eugene Green

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Ariel Rios Building (1601M)

1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW

Washington, D.C. 20460

Phone: (202) 564-2432

Email: green.eugene@epa.gov

Alan Hecht, Ph.D.

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Ariel Rios Building (8101R)

1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW

Washington, D.C. 20460

Phone: (202) 564-4772 

Email: hecht.alan@epa.gov

Craig Hooks

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Ariel Rios Building (3101A)

1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW

Washington, D.C. 20460

Phone: (202) 564-4600

Email: hooks.craig@epa.gov

Yvette Jackson

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Ariel Rios Building (3204R)

1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW

Washington, D.C. 20460

Phone: (202) 564-7231 

Email: jackson.yvette@epa.gov

Cynthia Jones-Jackson

Acting Director, OFACMO

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Ariel Rios Building (1601M)

1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW

Washington, D.C. 20460

Phone: (202) 564-2321

Email: jones-jackson.cynthia@epa.gov
20 April 4, 2013, National Advisory Council for Environmental Policy and Technology (NACEPT) Meeting Summary

Stephanie McCoy

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Ariel Rios Building (1601M )

1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW

Washington, D.C. 20460

Phone: (202) 564-7297

Email: mccoy.stephanie@epa.gov

A. Stanley Meiburg, Ph.D.

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Region 4

61 Forsyth Street, S.W. (9T25)

Atlanta, GA 30303

Phone: (404) 562-8357 

Email: meiburg.stan@epa.gov

Bob Perciasepe

Acting Administrator

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Ariel Rios Building (1101A)

1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW

Washington, D.C. 20460

Phone: (202) 564-4700

Email: perciasepe.bob@epa.gov

Aditi Prabhu

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Ariel Rios Building (2355A)

1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW

Washington, D.C. 20460

Phone: (202) 564-2473

Email: prabhu.aditi@epa.gov

Nadia Rhazi

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Ariel Rios Building (2723A)

1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW

Washington, D.C. 20460

Phone: 202-564-1883

Email: rhazi.nadia@epa.gov

Michael Slimak, Ph.D.

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Ariel Rios Building (8601P)

1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW

Washington, D.C. 20460

(703) 347-8524

Email: slimak.michael@epa.gov

Pamela Swingle

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Region 4

61 Forsyth Street, S.W. (9T25)

Atlanta, GA 30303

Phone: (404) 562-8482

Email: swingle.pamela@epa.gov

Beth Termini

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Region 3

1650 Arch Street (3EA40)

Philadelphia, PA 19103

Phone: (215) 814-5683

Email: termini.beth@epa.gov

Other Participants

David Cooper

Public

Jenny Hopkinson

Inside EPA

Washington, D.C.

Email: jhopkinson@iwpnews.com

Contractor Support

Jennifer McCulley

The Scientific Consulting Group, Inc.

656 Quince Orchard Road, Suite 210

Gaithersburg, MD 20878

Phone: (301) 670-4990

Email: jmcculley@scgcorp.com