In his first speech since being sworn in as EPA Administrator, former Utah Governor Mike Leavitt outlined his guiding principles, conveyed his plans and aspirations for the agency, and previewed a 500-day action plan to significantly improve the nation's air quality. Leavitt pledged to "replace conflict with common sense and collaboration."

Leavitt follows an environmental protection philosophy called "Enlibra," which he co-authored with former Governor John Kitzhaber of Oregon. Enlibra, a Latin-based word meaning, "to move toward balance," is based on eight principles that Leavitt said emphasize collaboration instead of polarization, national standards and neighborhood solutions, markets instead of mandates and solutions that transcend political boundaries.

The plan Leavitt described provides a road map for how he will direct the EPA to achieve what he called "the most productive period of air quality improvement in American history." Action steps include supporting the president's Clear Skies cap and trade initiative, acting on eight-hour ozone non-attainment and working to ensure compliance with ozone and particulate standards, addressing mercury emissions from power plants, and placing additional controls on off-road diesel engines.

Leavitt said he envisions "a new wave of national environmental productivity beginning in America … emerging not from legislative initiatives but from people joining together in collaborative networks for environmental teamwork." He also challenged the EPA "to step forward boldly as a convener of such collaborative networks."

To view Levitt's Dec. 22 speech and to learn more about Enlibra, visit www.epa.gov/adminweb/leavitt/.