Who We Are

The Office of Inspector General is an independent office within EPA that helps the Agency protect the environment in a more efficient and cost effective manner. We consist of auditors, program analysts, investigators, and others with extensive expertise. Although we are a part of EPA, Congress provides us with our funding separate from the Agency, to ensure our independence. We were created as pursuant to the Inspector General Act of 1978 [PDF 70KB].

What We Do

We perform audits, evaluations, and investigations of EPA and its contractors, to promote economy and efficiency, and to prevent and detect fraud, waste, and abuse. We also provide ombudsman and hotline services to review public complaints about EPA programs and activities. We discuss issues with EPA management and others, including Congress, and provide detailed reports. Twice a year, we provide a Semiannual Report to Congress that identifies significant EPA deficiencies and proposed corrective actions and profiles our accomplishments.

Why We Do It

We strive to serve as a catalyst for improving the environment. By helping the Agency operate more economically, effectively, and efficiently, we contribute to improved environmental quality and human health. We strive to provide solutions to problems that ultimately result in making America a cleaner and healthier place.