Legislation Acts

Clean Air Act

A U.S. law enacted to control air pollution and establish ambient air quality standards.

1970

The year the Clean Air Act was originally enacted.

Carbon pollution

The most recent focus of the Clean Air Act, particularly from power plants.

Acid rain

A significant environmental issue addressed by amendments to the Clean Air Act.

Grandfathered facilities

Older facilities exempt from stricter emission standards under the Clean Air Act.

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

The agency responsible for establishing air quality standards under the Clean Air Act.

Clean Water Act

A U.S. law aimed at eliminating water pollution and protecting water quality.

Cuyahoga River

A river in Ohio that became a symbol of water pollution, leading to the Clean Water Act.

Discharge permits

Required permits for facilities to discharge pollutants into navigable waters.

Wetlands

Areas of land saturated with water, which have faced legal challenges regarding federal protection.

Kyoto Protocol

An international treaty aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions, adopted in 1997.

Emission reduction

The primary goal of the Kyoto Protocol, targeting a 7-10% reduction in emissions.

CITES Act

An international agreement to regulate trade in endangered species and prevent illegal wildlife trade.

Appendix 1

CITES classification for the most protected species.

Delaney Clause

A provision in the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act prohibiting cancer-causing food additives.

Montreal Protocol

An international treaty aimed at phasing out ozone-depleting substances.

Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)

Chemicals targeted by the Montreal Protocol for their role in ozone depletion.

Superfund (CERCLA)

A U.S. law for cleaning up hazardous waste sites and managing toxic waste.

Endangered Species Act

A law aimed at protecting endangered species and their habitats.

Safe Drinking Water Act

A law establishing standards for drinking water quality and safety in the U.S.