National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 By: Phoebe Coffin

National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) Draft Year: 1969 Amendment Years: 1975 and 1982 National Legislation

The purpose of the act was to “encourage harmony between man and his environment”. The act helps outline national environmental policies and goals, how authorities can enforce these policies, and to ensure that all environmental factors are taken into consideration when making federal decisions regarding the environment. Some environmental issues the NEPA deals with is the construction of new highways, airports, or buildings that could have impact of the environment. It outlines how the federal government should handle environmental issues. Other issues include environmental health, environmental preservation, and resource use. The Council on Environmental Quality controls regulation of the act and the Federal Government is responsible for enforcement.