Legal Definitions - NEPA

Term: NEPA

Definition: NEPA stands for National Environmental Policy Act. It is a law that was passed in 1970 to protect the environment by requiring federal agencies to consider the environmental impact of their actions before making decisions.

Example: If a federal agency wants to build a new road, they must first conduct an environmental impact assessment to determine how the road will affect the environment. This assessment will consider things like air and water quality, wildlife habitats, and the impact on local communities.

Explanation: The example illustrates how NEPA requires federal agencies to consider the environmental impact of their actions before making decisions. By conducting an environmental impact assessment, the agency can identify potential environmental issues and take steps to mitigate them. This helps to protect the environment and ensure that federal actions are sustainable and responsible.