repair, store, and distribute MTE to internal and external Postal Service customers for processing, transporting, and delivering the mail. The Mail Transport Equipment Support System (MTESS), a redesigned Postal Service software application, integrates and manages the network. MTESS replaces an Operating Systems Integration and Management contract at a projected cost savings of $32 million. The MTESC network is undergoing transformation to streamline MTE processing and reduce operating costs. During 2003, the MTE redesign saved the Postal Service $97.9 million in operational and purchasing costs.

     The independent and externally administered Customer Satisfaction Measurement system consistently shows high marks, from both Premier and National accounts, for the availability of serviceable MTE.

     During 2003, environmental programs redefined strategies pursuing both long- and short-term planning efforts based on continuing national reviews. Under development are specific measurement tools and technology, such as WebEMIS (Environmental Management Information System), environmental management systems (EMS), emergency management, as well as compliance audits and surveys, to help the field evaluate compliance with applicable environmental requirements.

     Information and links to the national compliance data systems, the basis for reports and analysis, are also being strengthened. Special studies and in-depth analyses of specific aspects of the national programs and compliance assessment tools can be found on the Environmental Portal, which is accessible on the Internet.

     Nationally driven compliance helps the regulated community understand and meet environmental obligations. Designated statute-specific assistance includes compliance activities associated with regional and state statutes or regulations. Environmental Management Policy is exploring new and creative ways of achieving environmental results that include the following:

• Compliance Incentives - policies and programs that support initiatives that correct environmental problems.
• Innovations - new and creative ways of incorporating environmental results into day-to-day operational work activities.
• Auditing - the Auditing Policy, which provides incentives for regulated entities to voluntarily discover, disclose, and correct noncompliance, rendering formal Environmental Protection Agency investigation and enforcement action unnecessary.
• Environmental Management Systems - systems that focus on environmental management practices at large, "at risk" facilities.
• Pollution Prevention - programs intended to stop pollution and waste before it is created.

     A key factor to providing environmental protection is ensuring compliance by the regulated community with environmental laws and regulations through monitoring and assessing compliance. Unless there is compliance with requirements, the promulgation of laws and regulations has little impact.

     Environmental Management Policy provided leadership for the biological response and decontamination of the Curseen-Morris P&DC in Washington, DC. In coordination with multiple federal and city regulatory and elected officials, this facility was successfully decontaminated of anthrax in December 2002. Throughout 2002 and 2003, Environmental Management Policy also provided technical guidance and assistance