What is the role of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)?

The role of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is primarily focused on protecting human health and the environment through the enforcement of regulations. This includes regulating emissions from various sources, overseeing the management of hazardous waste, ensuring that water quality meets safety standards, and implementing policies to reduce pollution. The agency works to create and enforce standards that help prevent environmental degradation and safeguard public health, making its mission critical in achieving a sustainable and safe environment.

While other options relate to significant functions within government and society, such as business development, labor laws, or international trade, none pertain directly to the EPA's primary mandate. Therefore, the emphasis on enforcing environmental regulations as a means to protect both people and ecosystems underscores the essential role the EPA plays in ensuring a healthier planet.