Which Act, enacted in 1973, provides for the protection of endangered species?

• A. National Environmental Policy Act
• B. Clean Air Act
• C. Endangered Species Act
• D. CERCLA

Answer: (C)

The question tests knowledge of the federal law enacted in 1973 that protects endangered species. The Endangered Species Act is the one that provides that protection by listing species as endangered or threatened, prohibiting the taking or harming of listed species, and safeguarding their critical habitat. It also guides recovery planning and requires federal agencies to ensure their actions do not jeopardize a species’ continued existence or destroy its habitat. This emphasis on safeguarding specific species and their habitats is what sets it apart from the other acts: NEPA focuses on evaluating environmental impacts of federal actions through required impact statements; the Clean Air Act targets air pollutants and emissions; and CERCLA addresses cleanup of hazardous substances at contaminated sites.