A more thorough explanation:

The National Response Center is a communication center located in Washington, D.C. that is responsible for receiving and relaying notices of oil discharges and other hazardous substance releases to appropriate federal officials. This center plays a crucial role in environmental law.

For example, if there is an oil spill in the ocean, the people responsible for the spill must report it to the National Response Center. The center will then notify the appropriate federal officials, who will take action to contain and clean up the spill. This helps to protect the environment and prevent further damage.

The National Response Center is an important part of the government's efforts to protect the environment and ensure that companies are held accountable for their actions. By reporting spills and releases of hazardous substances, we can work together to keep our planet safe and healthy.