What is the National Environmental Quality Act (NEQA)?

The National Environmental Quality Act (NEQA) is a federal law passed in 1970 that is designed to ensure that the federal government takes responsibility for protecting and maintaining the environment. NEQA requires that any federal agency that is involved in a project which could affect the environment must perform an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). An EIS is a detailed analysis of a project’s potential impacts on air and water quality, land use, wildlife, public health, and cultural resources. The EIS must identify any potential negative impacts and suggest ways to reduce or eliminate those impacts. In Washington State, the Department of Ecology is the primary agency responsible for ensuring compliance with NEQA. They review and approve EISs for any proposed project that could affect the environment. The Department of Ecology also enforces air and water quality standards, reviews proposed land use projects, and monitors hazardous waste sites. The NEQA is considered the cornerstone of environment protection law in the US. It has been used to protect water quality, prevent damage from oil spills, and protect wildlife habitats and endangered species. It has also been used to protect public health by limiting air and water pollution and by enforcing strict environmental regulations.

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What is the National Environmental Quality Act (NEQA)?

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