ABSTRACT
This chapter describes the use of benefits estimates by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). It focuses on the use of environmental benefits estimates to evaluate and justify new regulations. The chapter addresses in particular the degree to which environmental benefits estimates have actually influenced decision making, and the factors that contribute to greater or less reliance on such estimates. Federal agencies are required by Presidential Executive Order to assess the costs and benefits of major regulations. Environmental legislation sometimes requires that the EPA prepare studies of particular environmental problems, which may involve environmental benefit or damage estimates. The chapter also describes the criteria for decision-making established in four of the major statutes implemented by the EPA, as examples. These include: Clean Air Act; Clean Water Act; Toxic Substances Control Act; and Resource Conservation and Recovery Act. The land disposal restrictions and sludge rule cases illustrate the substantial data collection needed to support benefits analyses for many rules.
