Environmental protection is the process of preventing, controlling and remedying environmental harm. It is a long-term effort that requires a commitment to both policy and science.
The environmental protection industry has developed as an important part of the global economy. However, its growth and development should not come at the expense of human health and natural ecosystems. To ensure a sustainable future, the world needs to rethink its approach to environmental protection, including promoting renewable energy sources, implementing strict fossil fuel emission standards, and providing incentives for businesses that invest in these technologies.
EPA continues to work with states and tribes to decrease the emissions that contribute to interstate transport of air pollution, thereby improving regional air quality and making it easier for many areas to attain federal air standards. In particular, EPA will continue to implement cost-effective multistate regional programs to control power plant and other stationary source emissions of sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx), which contribute significantly to nonattainment of PM2.5 and ozone NAAQS in downwind states and regions.
EPA works with tribal and local governments to improve community participation in land cleanup decisions, and provides technical assistance to enhance state, tribal, and local capacity for environmental emergency response. EPA also helps communities adapt core clean water and drinking water programs to the impacts of climate change. Lastly, EPA continues to maintain the capability and equipment readiness of the Nation’s radiological response program by continuing to operate RadNet and by maintaining personnel expertise, resources and capabilities at the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP). These activities help to protect people from exposure to radiation.
About the Author
