What does the acronym NEPA stand for?

The acronym NEPA stands for the National Environmental Policy Act. This landmark legislation was enacted in 1969 and is a cornerstone of U.S. environmental law. NEPA requires federal agencies to assess the environmental impacts of their proposed actions before making decisions. This assessment is typically conducted through an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) or an Environmental Assessment (EA). The Act underscores the importance of considering environmental factors and involving the public in the decision-making process, promoting transparency and accountability in federal actions that may affect the environment. Understanding NEPA is crucial for compliance officers and environmental professionals as it lays the foundation for integrating environmental considerations into federal agency planning and decision-making.