October 3, 2007—The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has modified procedures implementing the National Environmental Policy Act, which established the US government’s policy for environmental protection.
The final rule clarifies and consolidates technical requirements of EPA’s environmental review process and includes minor changes to EPA’s procedures for implementing Executive Order 12114, entitled “Environmental Effects Abroad of Major Federal Actions.” EPA says the revisions were necessary because the agency’s current NEPA regulations do not cover a number of EPA actions that have been put in place since the rule was originally written.
Established in 1969, NEPA’s basic policy is to assure that all federal agencies consider the environment prior to approving federal actions. Specifically, NEPA requires federal agencies to evaluate the potential environmental effects of their actions prior to approving them. Moreover, NEPA requires federal agencies to consider measures to minimize adverse effects of their actions, and to solicit and consider public input as part of the environmental review process.
To view the new rule in the Federal Register or for more information on NEPA, visit online.
