Environmental protection agency
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmɛntəl prəˈtɛkʃən ˈeɪdʒənsi/ is a federal agency in the United States responsible for protecting human health and the environment by enforcing regulations based on laws passed by Congress.
Etymology
The term "Environmental Protection Agency" is derived from its role. "Environmental" refers to the surroundings in which an organism operates, including air, water, land, and the interrelationships among these elements. "Protection" signifies the agency's role in safeguarding these elements. "Agency" indicates that it is a branch of the federal government.
History
The EPA was established on December 2, 1970, by an executive order of President Richard Nixon. The agency was created in response to widespread public environmental concerns that emerged in the United States during the 1960s.
Functions
The EPA's responsibilities include the enforcement of environmental laws such as the Clean Air Act, the Clean Water Act, and the Endangered Species Act. The agency also conducts environmental assessment, research, and education. It has the responsibility of maintaining and enforcing national standards under a variety of environmental laws, in consultation with state, tribal, and local governments.
Related Terms
- Air Quality: The condition of the air within a specific area. The EPA sets standards for air quality under the Clean Air Act.
- Water Quality: The condition of water. The EPA sets standards for drinking water quality and oversees the states, localities, and water suppliers who implement those standards.
- Hazardous Waste: Waste that is dangerous or potentially harmful to our health or the environment. The EPA regulates hazardous waste under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA).
- Pesticides: Substances used to prevent, destroy, repel or mitigate any pest. The EPA regulates pesticides under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA).
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