What is the function of the Superfund program under CERCLA?

The Superfund program, established under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA), primarily aims to address the cleanup of contaminated sites and manage responses to environmental emergencies. This program is crucial for identifying and remediating sites that pose significant risks to public health and the environment due to hazardous substances. It ensures that these contaminated locations are cleaned up properly, thereby protecting the environment and communities from further exposure to toxic materials.

This initiative also emphasizes the importance of holding responsible parties accountable for the pollution they create, while the federal government may step in to manage cleanups when those parties cannot be identified or are unable to act. The overarching goal of the Superfund program is to restore contaminated properties to a safe condition for both current and future use, thereby advancing public safety and environmental health.