Environmental Performance Track

On December 14, 2004 the Region hosted an annual networking meeting for members of the EPA's National Environmental Performance Track Program. Acting Regional Administrator (ARA) Kathy Callahan's opening remarks stressed the Agency's priority on strengthening the program by implementing new federal regulatory incentives that provide benefits to members and enhance the partnership with the States. The ARA also presented special certificates to the two newest members: Brookhaven National Lab and Pfizer Pharmaceuticals Vega Baja and to several renewing members attending the meeting. Members participating in the meeting included Baxter Healthcare, Johnson & Johnson, American Ref Fuel, Navy Lakehurst, National Energy and Gas Transmission, and IBM. Several prospective applicants, such as Schering Plough and Wyeth attended as well.

The program focused on national and state updates from EPA Headquarters, Region 2, and NYS DEC and on the delivery of member services and incentives. This year's "Member's Spotlight" featured Janssen Pharmaceutica's innovative use of renewable energy, stormwater management program, and on-site habitat preservation and restoration efforts. A representative from Baxter International spoke about Baxter's involvement in EPA's Green Suppliers Network, a voluntary program focused on lean and clean manufacturing. Finally, Steve Rinaldi of the NJ DEP shared information and successes of the New Jersey Waste Wise Business Network - a voluntary public-private partnership initiative in NJ in which several Performance Track members participate.