Describe the purpose of the Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS).

The Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) serves a vital role in public health and environmental protection by providing comprehensive information on the health effects associated with exposure to various environmental contaminants. Developed by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), IRIS compiles and assesses toxicological data to inform decision-makers about the potential health risks posed by chemicals in the environment.

The information provided includes data on the types of health effects that exposure to specific substances may cause and helps in formulating regulatory standards and guidelines for safe exposure levels. This resource is crucial for risk assessment processes where understanding the health implications of environmental contaminants is necessary for protecting public health and the environment.

The other options focus on areas that are not the primary purpose of IRIS. While financial analysis, waste management, and sustainability initiatives are important considerations in environmental projects, they do not align with the core function of IRIS, which specifically addresses the health impacts of exposure to environmental contaminants.