What is the primary purpose of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)?

The primary purpose of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is to preserve the environment and keep the earth clean. Established in 1970, the EPA's mission is to protect human health and the environment by enforcing regulations based on laws passed by Congress. It works to ensure air and water quality is maintained, manages waste disposal, and regulates pollutants that can harm the environment and public health. This focus on environmental preservation encompasses a wide range of initiatives, from developing and enforcing regulations to encouraging sustainability practices among individuals and businesses. The agency prioritizes a clean environment as essential for public health and ecological integrity, reflecting its foundational goal of safeguarding both people and the planet.