Class 12

EPA’s job

Enforces federal environmental laws, sets regulations, and conducts environmental research.

NEPA

Requires Environmental Impact Statements (EIS) for major federal actions that may significantly impact the environment.

Clean Water Act

Discharges into “navigable waters,” point sources, water quality standards, and wetland protections.

A discrete, identifiable source of pollution—often litigated.

What’s a “point source”?

RCRA

Tracks hazardous waste “cradle to grave”—requires permits, monitoring, and formal closure of facilities.

CERCELA (Superfund)

Funds cleanup of old toxic sites; imposes joint and several liability on past/present owners, operators, and transporters.

Industrial chemicals new chemicals require safety testing.

What does TSCA regulate?

FIRFA

Requires EPA registration of pesticides—must not pose unreasonable harm; sets tolerance and residue levels.