Abstract |
During FY 2011, the EPA made significant advancements in protecting human health and the environment. At the same time, we took several steps to develop innovative improvements to the way the agency does business in order to eliminate waste and reduce costs. Over the past year, the EPA achieved numerous results under each of the five environmental goals and five cross-cutting fundamental strategies presented in our new FY 20112015 Strategic Plan. In FY 2011, for example, the EPA improved the countrys ability to measure greenhouse gas emissions through implementation of the agencys Greenhouse Gas Mandatory Reporting Rule. We increased enforcement actions to reduce pollution in waters which do not meet water quality standards. In addition, the agency initiated a new area-wide planning program to assist underserved and economically disadvantaged communities in addressing and redeveloping brownfields sites. We continued to meet our financial stewardship responsibilities, striving to use the resources entrusted to us as effectively and efficiently as possible. In FY 2011, the EPA became the first government agency to receive the U.S. Treasurys Award for 100% Electronic Funds Transfer for Collections and Cash Management, an effort that resulted in faster payment times and reduced mailing and storage costs. We achieved an exceptionally low improper payment rate of 0.01% and, for the 12th consecutive year, earned a clean opinion on our audited financial statements, indicating that the EPAs programs and resources are protected from fraud, waste, abuse and misappropriation. In addition, the agency began a new Policy Verification Compliance Initiative to assess the overall efficiency, effectiveness and consistency of financial activities. This initiative allows us to identify best practices and potential improvements to strengthen our financial management. |