APES- Legislation

Clean Air Act (CAA)

An act created to limit air pollutants affecting American public health and establish National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). (December 17, 1963)

Clean Water Act (CWA)

Legislation that clarifies rules for releasing pollutants into water bodies and mandates limits on surface water quality. (October 18, 1972)

Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES)

An agreement among 184 parties to regulate the trade of endangered species and ensure their protection through permits. (July 1, 1975)

Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA)

An act that regulates hazardous material disposal and establishes accountability for hazardous materials handling and cleanup costs. (December 11, 1980)

Montreal Protocol (MP)

A treaty aimed at repairing the ozone layer by limiting substances harmful to it, protecting the Earth from ultraviolet radiation. (January 1, 1989)

Kyoto Protocol (KP)

A treaty requiring signatories to limit greenhouse gas emissions, assigning different responsibilities based on each country's contribution to climate change. (December 11, 1997)

Endangered Species Act (ESA)

Legislation that protects endangered wildlife and plants, creating a constantly updated list and recovery plans for these species. (December 27, 1973)

Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA)

An act that ensures the cleanliness of drinking water sources and regulates public water systems to comply with safety standards. (December 16, 1974)

Delaney Clause of Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act

An addendum preventing the FDA from labeling cancer-causing ingredients as safe, requiring the elimination of carcinogens in products. (1958)

Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA)

Legislation that gives the EPA authority over hazardous materials' management and establishes guidelines for waste site handling. (October 21, 1976)