ABOUT IEA

The Industrial Environmental Association was formed in 1983 to promote responsible, cost-effective environmental laws and regulations, facilitate environmental compliance among member companies and provide related education activities for the community at large.

The IEA's evolution, however, has included an expanding role as the "voice" for manufacturing and associated companies in San Diego, not only on legislative matters but on a variety of environmental issues that affect the quality of life of businesses in the region.

The influence of the organization -- and therefore its member companies -- has increased with its visibility. It is recognized by local government and, increasingly, by state and federal officials, as a viable, objective, measured resource for input and expertise on industrial/environmental matters.

As important, however, are the information and education activities that keep member companies advised on environmental issues and responsibilities. Information exchanges, technical workshops and written papers all represent specific efforts to provide member companies with practical information to improve their operations and ensure environmental compliance.

As part of this commitment to education, the IEA sponsors an annual conference and exposition on environmental compliance and cosponsors workshops on compliance with the California Environmental Protection Agency (CAL-EPA), the County Department of Health Services (DHS) and the County Air Pollution Control District (APCD). The organization also works with the County Department of Education and with university and public schools' secondary science curriculum offices.

A Policy of Responsibility

The Industrial Environmental Association actively insists on strong environmental compliance efforts among member companies as a matter of written policy.

IEA member companies also share a commitment to create a positive perception of industry in San Diego. In the past a lack of information may have colored the perceptions of regulators and other audiences about industry and its processes.

IEA activism, however, is reversing those perceptions by proving, with deeds as well as words, that industrial companies care about the community, both environmentally and economically.IEA believes that industry must be involved in the process of environmental policy-making.

The IEA urges reliance on scientific, analytical data to evaluate the regulations necessary to protect the public and the environmental. Such data must be melded with public policy, in public forums, to determine safe chemical uses in manufacturing and to education the public about real versus perceived community risks.

For this reason, IEA endorses government bodies, such as the City of San Diego Quality of Life Board, and San Diego County's various agency advisory committees that seek to understand the real environmental needs of the community and make recommendations accordingly.

The IEA willingly works closely with city and county government officials in an effort to realize environmental and community health protection. Business goals and sound environmental safeguards are one and the same.