Legal Definitions - EPA

The EPA, which stands for the Environmental Protection Agency, is an independent agency of the United States federal government. Its core mission is to protect human health and the environment. The EPA achieves this by developing and enforcing environmental regulations based on laws passed by Congress, conducting environmental research, and providing assistance to states, tribes, and local communities to address environmental challenges.

Here are some examples illustrating the role of the EPA:

• Scenario: Regulating Industrial Emissions

  A large power plant is planning to expand its operations, which would increase its emissions of certain air pollutants. Before the expansion can proceed, the EPA requires the plant to install advanced pollution control technology to ensure that its emissions remain within federal air quality standards. The agency also mandates regular monitoring and reporting of these emissions.

  Illustration: This demonstrates the EPA's authority in setting and enforcing limits on industrial pollution. By requiring specific technologies and ongoing oversight, the EPA works to prevent harmful levels of air pollution and protect public health in surrounding communities.

• Scenario: Ensuring Safe Drinking Water

  Following reports of elevated lead levels in the drinking water of a particular city, the EPA launches an investigation. The agency provides technical assistance to the city's water utility, helps identify the sources of contamination, and mandates a plan for replacing old lead pipes and improving water treatment processes to meet federal Safe Drinking Water Act standards.

  Illustration: This example highlights the EPA's role in safeguarding public health by ensuring the quality and safety of drinking water. The agency sets national standards for contaminants and intervenes to ensure local water systems comply, protecting citizens from waterborne health risks.

• Scenario: Cleaning Up Hazardous Waste Sites

  An abandoned chemical manufacturing facility has left behind drums of hazardous waste and contaminated soil, posing a significant environmental risk to nearby residents and wildlife. The EPA designates this location as a "Superfund" site and initiates a long-term cleanup project, overseeing the removal of toxic materials and the remediation of the polluted land and groundwater.

  Illustration: This showcases the EPA's critical function in identifying, investigating, and cleaning up the nation's most contaminated hazardous waste sites. Through programs like Superfund, the EPA works to mitigate severe environmental damage and restore affected areas for safer use.