Understanding the facts as the EPA reconsiders regulations

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently announced a list of 31 regulatory actions under reconsideration. This development is sparking questions across multiple industries, as businesses seek to understand what this means for their compliance obligations and operations. 

What do these announcements mean? 

The EPA’s March 12 announcements outline an intent to change existing and proposed regulations and transfer certain responsibilities from federal oversight to the states. However, it’s crucial to note: 

• These announcements are not regulatory changes. They represent the EPA’s intent to revisit and potentially modify regulations. Actual changes will require formal rulemaking procedures. 

• No immediate changes are in place. Regulatory timelines, obligations and deadlines under current rules remain in effect unless officially updated. 

• Federal and state-level oversight remains. Even if federal regulations shift, businesses will still need to comply with other federal and state regulations on the same or overlapping areas of impact. 

Comprehending this context will help avoid misunderstandings and ensure ongoing compliance efforts remain on track. 

Key Considerations for businesses 

1. Regulations are staying put—for now.
   Despite announcements of reconsideration, most environmental regulations remain active. Businesses should maintain their compliance programs, continue accurate reporting and prepare for potential changes in the future.
2. Change will not happen overnight.
   Even if regulatory updates move forward, businesses can expect a structured process including public notices and timelines. Staying informed and ready to respond should be a top priority. 
3. Don’t just comply, innovate.
   Environmental data is more than a compliance necessity. By using this data strategically, companies can uncover opportunities to optimize processes, reduce costs, reduce waste, save energy and further sustainability goals. 

To effectively manage this evolving regulatory landscape, businesses should focus on these strategies: 

• Monitor regulatory updates. Use tools or services like Regulatory Compliance Software (CyberRegs) to stay abreast of proposed regulatory changes and their potential impacts on your industry. 

• Keep leveraging your environmental data. Transform environmental data into actionable insights. Identifying inefficiencies in processes or pinpointing areas for cost-saving improvements can add tangible value to business operations. 

Moving Forward 

Regulatory change is a complex but a natural part of environmental policy. Whether adjustments come at the federal or state level, businesses that remain proactive will be able to adapt and thrive.  

Beyond merely meeting compliance requirements, organizations can drive improvements in performance and sustainability and ultimately the overall bottom line by using purpose-built Environmental Accounting Software to harness their environmental data strategically.  

If you’re uncertain about how these developments might impact your organization, Sphera’s team of environmental experts is here to help.  

Contact us today to learn how you can manage regulatory risks, stay compliant and turn environmental data into a powerful business asset.