Definition of "environment" | US EPA (2024)

FAQs

How does the EPA define environment? ›

CERCLA section 101(8) defines "environment" as "(A) the navigable waters, the waters of the contiguous zone, and the ocean waters of which the natural resources are under the exclusive management authority of the United States under the Fishery Conservation and Management Act of 1976, and (B) any other surface water, ...

According to Section 2(a) of the Environmental Protection Act, 1986, 'Environment' includes water, air and land and the inter-relationship which exists among and between water, air and land, and human beings, other living creatures, plants, micro-organism and property.

EPA defines “environmental justice” as the fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people regardless of race, color, national origin, or income with respect to the development, implementation, and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, and policies.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) protects people and the environment from significant health risks, sponsors and conducts research, and develops and enforces environmental regulations.

1. : the circ*mstances, objects, or conditions by which one is surrounded. 2. a. : the complex of physical, chemical, and biotic factors (such as climate, soil, and living things) that act upon an organism or an ecological community and ultimately determine its form and survival.

In the context of TRI, a “release” of a chemical generally refers to a chemical that is emitted to the air, discharged to water, or disposed of in some type of land disposal unit.

The components of the environment are: Atmosphere or air. Lithosphere or soil and rocks. Hydrosphere or the water bodies. Biosphere or the living beings.

It is a complex web of regulations, policies, and statutes designed to address issues such as air and water quality, waste management, and pollution control. The purpose of environmental law is to protect human health, preserve the environment for present and future generations, and ensure sustainable development.

April 2022) Environmental protection is the practice of protecting the natural environment by individuals, groups and governments. Its objectives are to conserve natural resources and the existing natural environment and, where it is possible, to repair damage and reverse trends.

An environmental incident is an event that is a departure from standard operating conditions that can or does have an impact on human health or the environment.

What is the EPA definition of sustainable? ›

Sustainability is based on a simple principle: Everything that we need for our survival and well-being depends, either directly or indirectly, on our natural environment.

Section 15 of the Act establishes the objective of the EPA (Authority): It is the objective of the Authority to use its best endeavours: (a) to protect the environment; and (b) to prevent, control and abate pollution and environmental harm.

According to Section 2 of E.P.A.

“Environment” includes water, air and land and the inter-relationship which exists among and between water, air and land, and human beings, other living creatures, plants, micro-organism and property.

Environmental information or data is defined as any measurements or information that describe environmental processes, location, or conditions; ecological or health effects and consequences; or the performance of environmental technology.

Natural resources include “land, fish, wildlife, biota, air, water, ground water, drinking water supplies, and other such resources.” What Is A Trust Resource? CERCLA Section 101 (16) defines trust resources to include:…

The EPA has 14 environmental factors, organised into five themes: Sea, Land, Water, Air and People. The EPA has identified an environmental objective for each environmental factor.

What is Sustainability? Sustainability is based on a simple principle: Everything that we need for our survival and well-being depends, either directly or indirectly, on our natural environment.