What is the role of the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) brownfields program?

The role of the Environmental Protection Agency’s brownfields program is primarily focused on assessing and cleaning up contaminated properties to facilitate their redevelopment. This initiative aims to revitalize neighborhoods by promoting the cleanup of derelict and often abandoned sites that are perceived to be hazardous due to the presence of toxic substances or pollutants. By providing funding, technical assistance, and guidance, the program enables communities to transform these brownfields into productive, safe spaces, ultimately supporting economic growth and environmental health. This emphasis on redevelopment enhances local community resilience and sustainability, making it essential for a holistic approach to urban planning and environmental protection.

The other options, while related to environmental protection, address different areas of focus within the EPA's broader mission. Managing hazardous waste disposal, enforcing the Clean Air Act, and overseeing water quality testing in urban areas are critical activities, but they do not directly pertain to the specific goals and functions of the brownfields program.