Environmental Impact Review (NEPA)

The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), signed into law on January 1, 1970, is the federal government’s foundational framework for protecting the environment. It requires federal agencies to assess the environmental, social, and economic effects of major federal projects before decisions.

How Environmental Reviews Work

NEPA is a procedural law that mandates thorough, transparent evaluations but does not prohibit projects. For major federal actions, agencies prepare a Categorical Exclusion (CATEX), Environmental Assessment (EA), or Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). These documents cover the purpose and need, alternatives, environmental impacts, and consultations. Agencies disclose findings publicly and seek community input before proceeding.[1][2]

NEPA in Action

NEPA applies government-wide, from the Department of Energy to Interior. It shapes projects like environmental reviews before building a massive data center or how offshore oil drilling rights are decided. Locally, NEPA reviews empower communities to influence federal actions affecting neighborhoods, water, and air quality.