What is the Environmental Protection Agency?

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is a federal agency created to protect the environment by policing activities that have a negative impact upon the environment. Specifically, the EPA is charged with enforcement of the various federal environmental statutes, writing regulations, conducting environmental assessments, conducting environmental research, and educating the public on environmental standards. 

In carrying out its functions, the EPA works closely with state and local governments, as the environmental regulatory regimes are closely integrated. Particularly, much of the responsibility for enforcing environmental laws rests with the states. As part of its enforcement function, the EPA has administrative authority to levy fines, sanctions, and other punitive measures for failure to adhere to environmental law.

Related Topics

• Environmental Law (Intro)

• What are environmental laws?
• What is the structure of environmental protection law?
• What is the Environmental Protection Agency?
• How are environmental laws enforced?
• What is the National Environmental Policy Act of 1970?
• Environmental Impact Statement?
• What is the Clean Air Act?
• State Implementation Plan?
• New Source Performance Standards and New Source Review?
• Prevention of Significant Deterioration?
• Non-attainment Areas?
• Interstate Pollution?
• Enforcement?
• What is the Clean Water Act?
• Exceptions or Variances?
• What is the Endangered Species Act of 1973?
• What federal laws control pesticides?
• What laws govern solid waste disposal?
• What is the Toxic Substance Control Act of 1976?
• What is the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act?