What are the legal requirements related to environmental protection?

In California, local government law requires that local governments take actions to protect and maintain the environment. Environmental protection measures can include regulating air and water quality, controlling noise, and maintaining natural resources. Local governments should also strive to minimize waste production and encourage the use of renewable energy sources. They should also ensure that local development projects do not damage the environment or threaten public health. The California Coastal Commission is responsible for protecting the state’s 1,100-mile coast from development and pollution. The commission is empowered to implement open space plans, review development plans for compliance with the Coastal Act, and protect public access to coastal areas. The California Department of Transportation is authorized to approve highway construction plans that abide by laws set forth in the California Air Resources Board and the California Environmental Protection Agency. These laws ensure that new highways do not create significant air pollution and that the environment is protected. In addition, local governments in California must abide by the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), which requires local governments to consider the potential environmental impacts of their decisions and actions. For example, they must consider the potential impacts that a new residential development might have on water resources, land, animals, and plants. Finally, local governments must make sure that businesses follow environmental regulations. Businesses must obtain special permits or licenses before they can pollute the environment or build facilities that could damage it. California also has laws that protect endangered species, regulate the logging industry, and set standards for oil and gas production.

What are the legal requirements related to environmental protection?

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