EPA launched the Sustainable Industry (SI) Program in 1993 to explore a new approach to policy development. The approach is based on the premise that studying an industry in close cooperation with its decision-makers and other stakeholders gives government a better understanding of the sometimes subtle reasons why businesses embrace or resist actions to protect the environment. Once government agencies understand these reasons, they can shape policies that take advantage of incentives for exceptional performance and overcome obstacles to success. The results should be reduced costs for industry and better environmental performance.

NADCA began partnering with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency on the Metalcasting Sector Program in 1998. In order to better understand the die casting process, industry and issues, EPA staff visited several die casting facilities, participated in industry conferences, and conducted over 40 interviews with business owners and managers.  In 1999, expert panels provided feedback and identified priority issues that they would like to pursue through the SI Program. Larger stakeholder groups were organized, projects were identified and work began. 

• Comprehensive Environmental Assistance

• Environmental Management System (EMS) Project

• Performance Track and Environmental Characterization