What Is the Government Doing to Stop Pollution?
The federal government is working to reduce pollution by enacting laws and policies related to recycling, greenhouse gases, waste management and sustainability. Acting presidents have the authority to write executive orders relating to these issues.
Since the Industrial Revolution, the rise of factories and cars have forever changed the environment. The government enacts certain legislation and acts in order to take control of pollution and to lower its impact on people and the environment. Although the changes take years, it’s well worth it in the long run. It’s hard to know the exact future of government oversight over pollution, but it’s safe to say it will remain the same, if not become more strict.
The Environmental Protection Agency The Environmental Protection Agency plays an important federal role in reducing pollution and protecting the environment. The EPA develops and enforces environmental regulations, educates people about pollution and other environmental issues, provides grants for community cleanups and studies environmental problems to determine potential solutions. The EPA also implemented a Pollution Prevention Program to reduce the use of natural resources, limit the use of hazardous materials and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
The Pollution Prevention Act The Pollution Prevention Act states that pollution should be prevented at the source whenever possible. George W. Bush signed an executive order requiring the use of environmental management systems to improve sustainable practices. The order also requires federal agencies to purchase products and services that are better for the environment than their less environmentally friendly counterparts.
The Clean Air Act The Clean Air Act was passed by Congress in 1970 to curb air pollution in the country. It imposes emissions standards as well as involves governments in both federal, local and state levels. The Act has effectively benefited air quality by ensuring less pollution. This includes factories and new cars using advanced emission controls, which cuts down on the air pollution. Another aspect of pollution that the Clean Air Act addressed is airborne lead pollution, which was done by banning lead in gasoline.
By imposing national air quality standards, Americans can enjoy cleaner air, which helps to curb pollution-related illnesses. Some of these pollution-related illnesses include lowered mortality, acute and chronic bronchitis, as well as asthma. Furthermore, cleaner air is better for the ecosystem and wildlife.
State-Level Legislation State governments also have agencies dedicated to enacting and enforcing pollution-related laws and policies. For example, the state of California is considered to have strict environmental laws. There are various state-level laws to curb pollution. This includes the California Air Pollution Control Laws. These laws address 35 air pollution districts through the state, each which is overseen by Boards. There are task forces and cooperation with the Federal government to ensure pollution is being addressed to the best of its abilities. From emissions control, monitoring to permitting, California actively strives to improve air quality.
Clean Power Plan The Clean Power Plan, which was born out of the Clean Air Act, focuses on carbon emission reductions. This would be done with renewable energy, natural gas and nuclear power. The aim of the Plan is to lower CO2 emissions, which would then aid in lowering the effects of global warming.
