MUIRNet-News Glossaries

NEPA - The Basics

by: John Stewart
Natural Resources Consultant
California Association of 4 Wheel Drive Clubs

The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) assures that federal agencies will consider the impact of an action on the human environment before decisions are made and the action is taken. It requires that NEPA documents concentrate on issues that are significant to the action in question. The NEPA process is intended to help public officials make better decisions based on an understanding of environmental consequences, and take actions that protect, restore, and enhance the human environment.