Which environmental law was enacted in 1970?

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

Answer: (A)

This question tests recognition of a foundational federal environmental law that changed how agencies plan and decide on actions. In 1970, the National Environmental Policy Act was enacted, introducing a requirement for federal agencies to assess the environmental effects of their proposed actions before proceeding. NEPA established the Environmental Assessment process and, for actions with significant impacts, the Environmental Impact Statement, plus it created the Council on Environmental Quality to oversee these reviews. This emphasis on pre-decision environmental review distinguishes NEPA from other major environmental laws, which address specific issues like air or water pollution or species protection and were enacted in other years.