United States Environmental Protection Agency

Published: July 30, 2017 | Last updated: July 5, 2023

What Does United States Environmental Protection Agency Mean?

The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is an agency of the United States federal government that is charged with the protection of the environment and human health by writing and enforcing regulations in accordance with laws passed by Congress. The EPA was created through an executive order by President Richard Nixon in 1970. The leader of the EPA is appointed by the president, approved by Congress, and reports directly to the president. Although the EPA is in charge of enforcement of its regulations, it does delegate some responsibility to the states such as some permitting, monitoring and enforcement procedures.

Trenchlesspedia Explains United States Environmental Protection Agency

The EPA ensures that environmental protection is an important consideration in American policies regarding energy, transportation, agriculture, natural resources and international trade. Some of the major laws and statutes the EPA enforces include the Clean Air Act of 1970, Clean Water Act of 1972, Safe Drinking Water Act, Pesticide Control Act of 1972 and the 1996 Food Quality Protection Act.

The EPA's role in government makes it a key player in regulating wastewater management. The methods and materials used in trenchless construction and rehabilitation are regulated by the EPA to ensure that construction methods do not degrade the natural environment, such as polluting ground water and disrupting wildlife, and that they maintain the quality of drinking water. Thus, in addition to the main objectives of trenchless technology to develop and build fluid transport systems, the EPA ensures that it is implemented in a safe manner.

Synonyms

Environmental Protection Agency

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