Environmental laws

Atomic Energy Act (AEA)

A law that regulates the use of nuclear energy and materials to ensure safety and promote the peaceful use of atomic energy.

Clean Water Act (CWA)

A law that governs water pollution in the United States, setting standards for water quality and regulating discharges of pollutants into waterways.

CERCLA / Superfund (1980)

A federal law aimed at cleaning up hazardous waste sites and holding responsible parties accountable for cleanup costs.

CITES (1973)

An international agreement aimed at ensuring that international trade in wild animals and plants does not threaten their survival.

Endangered Species Act (ESA, 1973)

A U.S. law designed to protect critically endangered species from extinction and their habitats. It provides for the conservation of species at risk and aims to recover populations.

Kyoto Protocol (1997)

An international treaty that commits countries to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in order to combat climate change. First major climate agreement

Montreal Protocol (1987)

A global agreement to phase out substances, like CFCs, that deplete the ozone layer, protecting human health and the environment.

Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA, 1974)

A U.S. law that ensures the quality of Americans' drinking water by setting regulations for water suppliers and establishing safety standards.

Food Quality Protection Act (FQPA, 1996)

A U.S. law that establishes safety standards for pesticide residues in food, aiming to protect public health, especially for vulnerable populations such as children.

Federal Land Policy and Management Act (FLPMA, 1976)

A U.S. law that governs the management of public lands and their resources, promoting multiple use and sustainability.

Proposition 65 (California, 1986)

California law requiring warning labels on products containing harmful chemicals to protect public health.

Clean Air Act (CAA, 1970; amended 1990)

U.S. laws aimed at regulating air emissions from stationary and mobile sources to protect public health and the environment.