Protecting America’s Environment: Priorities of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for Water and Toxins

Abstract

In the mid-1900s, the environment in the United States was polluted and unhealthy for humans and other species. By the 1970s, it was clear that environmental laws and regulations were necessary to protect the public and preserve and rehabilitate lands and waters. A robust series of laws was enacted which are still in effect today. This paper focuses on the creation of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and regulatory impacts of laws directed at clean water and reducing toxins. It is clear that while passage of these laws and their related regulations has made a tremendous impact on the environment and human health, it is necessary for citizens to stay vigilant and ensure that these laws and regulations are enforced.