EPA assesses the corrective action program using environmental indicators. All of the following are the indicators, except:

• A. Risk reduction
• B. Risk identification
• C. Risk communication
• D. Resource protection

Answer: (B)

Environmental indicators measure the results and effectiveness of the corrective action program, focusing on outcomes rather than planning steps. They look at what the program achieves: how much risk is actually reduced by cleanup efforts, how well information about risks and actions is communicated to the public and stakeholders, and how resources are used to protect the environment and health. Risk reduction shows a change in exposure or threat after actions are taken, risk communication reflects the effectiveness of sharing that information, and resource protection assesses efficient use of funds and assets to safeguard the environment. Risk identification, however, is about spotting and assessing potential hazards—a preparatory activity in risk assessment rather than a measured outcome of the corrective action program. Because indicators are tied to showing progress and impact, risk identification does not fit as an environmental indicator.