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AbstractThe definition of sustainable development is meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Components of sustainable development include economic profitability, environmental quality, and community well‐being. For federal agencies, sustainable development is critical to their mission. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has always embraced a linkage between economic and environmental goals. However, integration of these elements into its internal operations is a new concept.This article provides a general discussion of sustainable development principles and approaches to incorporating these principles internally, and specific sustainable development initiatives at NOAA. To meet the demands of NOAA's mission requirements—including sustainable development—and the many environmentally related Presidential Executive Orders, NOAA is developing an environmental, health, and safety management information system (MIS). One element of the MIS, the chemical inventory management system, used to track laboratory chemicals to ensure the safety of employees and protection of the environment, is described in more detail. Additional modules on elements such as Asbestos and Underground Storage Tanks are planned.