The move was designed to meet increasing demands in the performance of scientific reviews

In a move designed to meet increasing demands in the performance of scientific reviews, the EPA is reorganizing its Science Advisory Board (SAB). Established by Congress in 1978, the SAB is made up of leading scientific experts who assist the EPA administrator in making the best environmental decisions to protect human health and the environment.

The move marks the first major reorganization of the board in 25 years. "The SAB's original structure and functions have served EPA well through the beginning decades of environmental protection actions," the EPA stated. "As environmental challenges have become more complex, and the demands placed on the SAB have continued to increase, it has become important for EPA to adjust and realign the SAB's structure and functions."

The 30-member SAB will now be able to initiate more direct consultations and special workshops and form new ad hoc panels. The reorganization also brings other benefits, including improved objectivity and quality of SAB peer reviews, according to the EPA. The changes are set to take place in 2004 and 2005. See www.epa.gov/sab/reorg_of_epasab.html.