Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Toxics Release Inventory (TRI)?
The TRI is an EPA program requiring industrial facilities above certain size and chemical-use thresholds to annually report their releases and transfers of listed toxic chemicals to air, water, land, and off-site locations. It is one of the most comprehensive public datasets on industrial chemical use in the U.S.
If a facility isn't listed in TRI, does that mean it releases no chemicals?
Not necessarily. TRI reporting is required only for facilities that meet specific size thresholds, fall within covered industry sectors, and use listed chemicals above threshold quantities. Many smaller operations, service businesses, and non-covered sectors are not required to report.
What is a Superfund site?
Superfund sites are heavily contaminated locations that qualify for the EPA National Priorities List (NPL) under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA). Placement on the NPL makes a site eligible for long-term federal remediation funding. Not all contaminated sites reach Superfund status.
What does a drinking water violation mean?
Drinking water violations tracked in SDWIS fall into two categories: health-based violations (exceeding Maximum Contaminant Levels or required treatment techniques) and monitoring/reporting violations (failure to test or report on schedule). Health-based violations are the more serious category and require prompt public notification.
How do I find out if my water system has violations?
PlainEnviro's state pages show water system violation data from SDWIS. You can also look up your specific public water system using the EPA ECHO tool at echo.epa.gov, or contact your water utility directly, they are required to mail an annual Consumer Confidence Report.
What do 'carcinogens' and 'PBTs' mean in TRI data?
Carcinogens are chemicals classified as known or probable causes of cancer. PBTs (Persistent, Bioaccumulative, and Toxic chemicals) are chemicals that do not break down in the environment, accumulate in the food chain, and are toxic at low concentrations. Both categories receive additional reporting scrutiny under TRI.
Is PlainEnviro affiliated with the EPA?
No. PlainEnviro is an independent data portal built by PlainEnviro. We present EPA public data without advocacy framing but are not affiliated with the EPA or any government agency. For regulatory guidance or site-specific inquiries, contact the EPA or your state environmental agency directly.