Your Voice for the Planet
A Citizen’s Guide to Using Federal Environmental Law for a Healthier, More Just World
Why Your Involvement Matters
Federal environmental laws are powerful tools designed not just for government agencies, but for you. They provide a legal framework to protect the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the communities we live in. This guide empowers you to understand these laws and take meaningful action, ensuring that environmental protection is a right for all, not a privilege for some.
The Legal Framework: Key Environmental Laws
National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)
Ensures federal agencies consider environmental impacts before making major decisions. Your key action is commenting on Environmental Impact Statements.
Clean Air Act (CAA)
Regulates air pollution from both stationary (factories) and mobile (cars) sources to protect public health.
Clean Water Act (CWA)
Governs water pollution, making it unlawful to discharge pollutants into navigable waters without a permit.
Resource Conservation & Recovery Act (RCRA)
Manages solid and hazardous waste from “cradle-to-grave,” ensuring safe handling and disposal.
Superfund (CERCLA)
Funds the cleanup of the nation’s most contaminated land and responds to environmental emergencies.
Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA)
Controls the distribution, sale, and use of pesticides through a national registration system.
Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA)
Protects the quality of drinking water in the U.S., including both surface and groundwater sources.
Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA)
Authorizes the EPA to regulate new and existing chemical substances that pose an unreasonable risk.
The Citizen’s Playbook: How to Take Action
From investigation to litigation, citizens have a variety of powerful tools at their disposal. This flowchart outlines the escalating steps you can take to make your voice heard and drive real environmental change in your community.
Public Participation
Access to Information
Notify Agencies of Violations
Request Specific Agency Action
Citizen Suits
Visualizing the Impact of Citizen Action
When citizens get involved, the results are tangible and multifaceted. This isn’t just about one outcome; it’s about creating a ripple effect of positive change. The donut chart illustrates the key areas where public participation makes a significant difference, from holding polluters accountable to empowering local communities and fostering environmental justice for all. Each segment represents a critical benefit of a more engaged and informed public.
Key Agencies
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
The primary federal agency responsible for developing and enforcing environmental regulations. Most citizen actions and petitions will be directed toward the EPA.
Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
Plays a crucial role alongside the EPA in areas concerning food safety, particularly regarding pesticide residues on food products.