I recently ran across a very cool EPA website called My Environment-environmental information for my area. This easy to use, interactive site provides a cross section of environmental information for the user’s location.  Typing in the location of interest by zip code, city and state or even the name of a park or waterbody produces detailed information about the desired area.

The site provides specific environmental information for the quality of the air, water, land, health and ecological conditions where you live and work.

MyAir allows the user to view the UV index for the day as well as radon level maps, and that day’s ozone and particulate matter counts. 

MyHealth provides information on cancer risks for air toxin estimates, as well as infant mortality rates and low birth rates all by county.

MyLand supplies superfund and brownfield links. Perhaps most relevant in this section is the Cleanups in My Community link where users are provided with a map that details the cleanup activities in your neighborhood. 

MyWater gives information on water conditions for area water bodies, local drinking water info as well as the ability to learn about new and expiring EPA permits given to facilities that emit pollutants to water in your vicinity.
MY Ecological Conditions reports on the state of ecological indicators in your surrounding area.

Currently, the site contains a map of EPA regulated facilities in the area.  Air and water monitoring station info will eventually also be included. There is even a link to the official channel where the public can report violations

I encourage everyone to take a tour of this site; it is well laid out and extremely informative.  With knowledge comes power. Check out what the risks are in your area, and then help make the change to a healthier environment where you live and work.