National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) Studies
The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) was signed into law in 1970. NEPA requires
federal agencies to assess the environmental effects of their proposed actions prior to making
decisions. The range of actions covered by NEPA is broad and includes:
- making decisions on permit applications,
- adopting federal land management actions,
- and constructing highways and other publicly-owned facilities.
Using the NEPA process, agencies evaluate the environmental and also the related social and
economic effects of their proposed actions. The process is comprehennsive and provides
opportunities for public review and comment on those evaluations.
What is the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)
The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), enacted in 1970, is a foundational environmental law in the United States that mandates federal agencies to comprehensively assess the environmental impacts of their proposed actions before making decisions. This law applies to a wide range of federal activities, including decisions on permit applications, federal land management actions, and the construction of highways and other public facilities. Central to NEPA is the requirement for Environmental Assessments (EAs) and, if necessary, more detailed Environmental Impact Statements (EISs). These assessments are designed to evaluate not only the environmental consequences but also the related social and economic effects of proposed federal actions. A hallmark of NEPA is its emphasis on public involvement, offering opportunities for review and comment on environmental evaluations. This process ensures an interdisciplinary approach, considering a spectrum of environmental, social, and economic factors, and aims to balance environmental protection with other societal needs. While NEPA does not dictate specific outcomes, it ensures informed decision-making and integrates environmental considerations into federal project planning and execution. Additionally, certain routine actions with minimal environmental impact may be categorically excluded from detailed NEPA review. NEPA’s influence extends beyond the United States, serving as a model for environmental policies globally.
Our Work
Our expertise is vital in ensuring that projects comply with NEPA's requirements. Here's how we can help!
Conducting (EAs) and (EISs)
Public Involvement and Communication
- Alternatives Analysis & Mitigation Strategies
- Regulatory Compliance and Documentation
- Risk Assessment and Management
Our Services
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Frequently Asked Questions
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NEPA covers a wide range of federal actions, including but not limited to, issuing permits, adopting land management policies, constructing public facilities like highways, and other significant federal actions that may impact the environment.
The NEPA process typically involves an initial assessment to determine if the proposed action will have significant environmental impacts. If significant impacts are identified, an Environmental Assessment (EA) or a more detailed Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) is prepared. The process includes public involvement, where feedback is solicited on the environmental reports.
An EA is a concise document that briefly discusses the purpose and need for an action, alternatives to the proposed action, and the potential environmental impacts. If an EA determines that the impacts are not significant, a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) may be issued.
An EIS is a more detailed document required when a proposed federal action is likely to have significant environmental impacts. It includes a thorough analysis of potential impacts, alternatives to the proposed action, and possible mitigation measures.
While NEPA itself does not have the authority to halt projects, the findings from NEPA studies can lead to changes in project plans to mitigate environmental impacts, or in some cases, may result in the selection of alternative actions that have less harmful environmental effects.
NEPA works in conjunction with other environmental laws and regulations. While NEPA itself does not impose environmental standards, it requires federal agencies to consider environmental impacts in accordance with other environmental statutes and regulations.