Much of that information is found on this ECOS Web page. The development of the Exchange Network is not just another new technology initiative, but instead, represents a change in the way environmental agencies do business. For more information on this exciting initiative, click on the Info. The States are the laboratories of innovation. This is, in part, because a particular environmental situation is uniquely presented and addressed at the state level.
Creative problem solving can often lead to a better way of environmental protection.
It frequently capitalizes on regulatory flexibility so that new techniques, novel approaches and creative solutions can be applied to environmental problems. When this is successful, it is always interesting to test its applicability to similar situations in other locations. So instead of designing a broad strategy that fits all situations, the States are continually trying to find specific solutions which can be applied more broadly. This is the heart of state innovation. This agreement set the ground rules under which States could submit innovative ideas to the EPA regions and expect a fast review.