EPA Releases Preliminary 2023 Toxics Release Inventory TRI Data

On July 30, 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) published preliminary 2023 Toxics Release Inventory (TRI) data, covering chemical releases, waste management, and pollution prevention from more than 20,000 facilities nationwide. This year, 21 new chemicals were added to the TRI list, including nine per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), following the requirements of 2020 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).

Introduction

The Toxics Release Inventory (TRI) monitors the disposal and management of hazardous chemicals to protect human health and the environment. U.S. facilities must annually report the quantities of these chemicals they release, recycle, or treat, along with their waste reduction practices. TRI tracks chemicals that have been linked to cancer, serious health issues, or major environmental damage. The current TRI list includes 794 chemicals and 33 chemical categories.

General Information on the 2023 Preliminary Data

The 2023 preliminary data were reported by facilities in relevant industries that manufactured, processed, or used TRI-listed chemicals in quantities exceeding threshold limits during the year. This data enables the public to:

• Determine the number of TRI facilities operating in specific areas, such as ZIP codes.
• Identify the types and quantities of chemicals managed by these facilities.
• Discover whether any facilities have taken pollution prevention measures in the past calendar year.

While the preliminary data have not yet been fully vetted through the TRI data quality process, the TRI-MEweb reporting software used by facilities includes automated checks to reduce errors. EPA is also performing additional quality reviews to address potential issues and will follow up with facilities as needed. A revised dataset incorporating late and updated submissions will be published in October. This updated data will be used to develop the 2023 TRI National Analysis, which is expected to be released in early 2025.

PFAS-Related Information from the 2023 Preliminary Data

Preliminary data show that facilities handled more than 1.5 million pounds of PFAS-related waste in 2023. In response, EPA has finalized a rule requiring more comprehensive reporting of PFAS by removing previous exemptions for low concentrations. The expanded reporting of PFAS quantities is expected to start with the 2024 TRI data.

Newly Reportable PFAS for the Reporting Year 2023 include: