EPA’s 2008 Report on the Environment demonstrates the importance of scientifically sound information to help us understand the state of the environment, identify areas of concern, and monitor progress. We can all celebrate the fact that our air is cleaner, our water is purer, and our land is better protected than it was just a generation ago. Today, we are beginning to measure just how much progress we have made. Though we once took our environment for granted, we now understand the importance of environmental quality for our future. Much work remains to be done, however, and we must continue to build on our record of progress.