Legal Definitions - major action

Definition: A major action is an undertaking that has the potential to significantly impact the environment. Under some state laws and the National Environmental Policy Act, an environmental assessment must be prepared before the action can be taken. This is to ensure that the potential environmental impacts are considered and addressed.

Examples:

• Building a new highway
• Constructing a new dam
• Drilling for oil in a sensitive ecosystem

These examples illustrate major actions because they all have the potential to significantly impact the environment. Building a new highway, for example, could lead to increased air pollution and habitat destruction. Constructing a new dam could alter the flow of a river and impact fish populations. Drilling for oil in a sensitive ecosystem could lead to oil spills and harm wildlife.