Learn about the Environmental Information Exchange Network
Overview
The Environmental Information Exchange Network (EN) was launched in 2002 as an inter-governmental, collaborative partnership of EPA, states, territories, and tribes to foster better environmental management and decision-making through increased access to timely, high quality environmental information.
During its first years, EN implementation focused on transforming the regulatory reporting processes of eight national data flows, by moving them from out-of-date reporting methods to standardized electronic reporting approaches based on EN data standards and technology.
Phase 2, initiated in 2013, focused on expanding the availability of published data and making the process of sharing data more efficient. This was done by developing data analysis and display services; making those services available to all partners; implementing innovative data collection, monitoring and analytical systems; and enabling more electronic reporting.
With the release of the E-Enterprise Digital Strategy (EEDS), the EN is currently transitioning into Phase 3 of its implementation. The EEDS was commissioned to help environmental agencies coordinate and share their investments in new technologies to deliver better environmental protection services. The EEDS is a living document, built on the foundation laid by the EN, that will evolve in response to changing technologies and programmatic needs.
Value of the Environmental Information Exchange Network
The EIEN offers significant benefits to partners for both reducing operating costs and improving business processes by:
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providing access to high quality and timely data at lower cost;
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using robust security measures to control data access;
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supporting open government transparency goals;
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offering data access to professionals at different levels of government, resulting in improved decision-making; and
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helping to strengthen the requisite information management and technology capabilities for interested parties to fully participate in the EN.
EPA Supports Environmental Information Exchange Network Partners
EPA enhances implementation of the EIEN through the Exchange Network Grant Program, which provides funding for states, territories and tribes.
For more information, see: Exchange Network Grant Program
Learn More about the Environmental Information Exchange Network
More information is available about the EIEN, including news, policies, documentation, technical specificationsand governance information.