Air Pollution: Improvements Needed in Developing and Managing EPA's Air Quality Models
RCED-86-94
Published: Apr 22, 1986. Publicly Released: Jun 18, 1986.
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Highlights
In response to a congressional request, GAO reported on the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) use of air quality models in carrying out the requirements of the Clean Air Act, specifically: (1) the accuracy, adequacy, and cost of the models; (2) the problems and limitations arising from uncertainties associated with the models; and (3) the appropriateness of an agreement between EPA and its contractor for developing a utility-sector air quality analysis model.
Recommendations
Recommendations for Executive Action
| Agency Affected | Recommendation | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Environmental Protection Agency | The Administrator, EPA, should implement a policy that provides guidance on what procurement mechanism should be used in various situations. The guidance should include the stipulation that, to the extent possible, contracts, rather than cooperative agreements, be used to obtain new computer models. |
Closed – Implemented
In a January 1988 follow-up report (GAO/RCED-88-57), GAO stated that EPA is revising its guidelines to clarify the type of legal instrument to be used for projects involving computer models. As of February 1988, this guidance has still not been published. On June 21, 1988, EPA issued its final guidance as an additional chapter to the Assistant Administration Manual.
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Topics
Air pollution controlAir qualityComputer modelingCost controlEnvironmental legislationEnvironmental monitoringEnvironmental policiesPollutantsPollutionAir pollution