The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Transportation are asking the public what information they need to make the best economic and environmental decisions when buying a new car. The two agencies are proposing changes to the fuel economy labels consumers see on the window of every new vehicle in dealer showrooms.

The new labels are designed to provide consumers with simple, straightforward energy and environmental information for all types of vehicles, including electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, and regular gas-powered vehicles.

Learn more and find out how you can view the proposed changes and offer your feedback.

This Sunday marks the five-year anniversary since Hurricane Katrina hit the Gulf Coast. Administrator Jackson traveled to New Orleans this week to commemorate this anniversary through a number of events with schools and community organizations that are focused on the city’s redevelopment.

She also wrote a few pieces including:

A WhiteHouse.gov blog post focuses on the importance of wetlands restoration in the Gulf.

A CNN piece discussing the history and rebirth of Administrator Jackson’s hometown neighborhood, Pontchartrain Park after Hurricane Katrina.

A New Orleans Times-Picayune op-ed on the importance of expanding the conversation on environmentalism.

MEMORANDUM

SUBJECT: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s International Priorities

TO: All EPA Employees

Today our world faces unprecedented environmental challenges ranging from making sure our air, water and land are healthy to facing down the growing threat of climate change. At the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, it is part of our mission to confront these challenges both at home and around the world.

While we have a long history of international collaboration on numerous global environmental issues, our bilateral and multilateral partnerships have taken on a renewed significance. The Commission for Environmental Cooperation is one of those vital partnerships. Since 1994, the Commission has been focused on developing innovative, collaborative solutions to reduce environmental impacts and promote mutual prosperity. Read More »»

Today, EPA released interim guidance to help agency staff incorporate environmental justice into decision making processes. Administrator Jackson has made it a top priority for EPA to work for environmental justice and protect the health and safety of communities disproportionately impacted by pollution. This marks an important and positive step towards those goals.

Historically, the low-income and minority communities that carry the greatest environmental burdens haven’t had a voice in our policy development or rulemaking,” Administrator Jackson said. “We want to expand the conversation to the places where EPA’s work can make a real difference for health and the economy. This plan is part of my ongoing commitment to give all communities a seat at the decision-making table.”

The Interim Guidance on Considering Environmental Justice During the Development of an Action, or the EJ in Rulemaking Guidance outlines steps for every EPA program office to better incorporate the needs of underrepresented and overburdened communities. The guidance also outlines the multiple steps that every EPA program office can take to incorporate the needs of overburdened neighborhoods into the agency’s decision-making, scientific analysis, and rule development. EPA is seeking public feedback on how to best implement and improve the guide to advance efforts toward environmental justice.

To view the interim guidance and submit feedback

For more information on environmental justice