The Environment Division specifies a standard method of expressing those aspects of a data processing problem that are dependent upon the physical characteristics of a specific computer. This division allows specification of the configuration of the compiling computer and the object computer. In addition, information relative to input-output control, special hardware characteristics and control techniques may be given.
The Environment Division is optional
in a COBOL source element.
ENVIRONMENT DIVISION. [configuration-section][input-output-section]