The Environmental Protection Agency is an independent federal agency established in the United States to protect the environment and improve public health. Established by President Richard Nixon in 1970, the Environmental Protection Agency adopts a holistic approach to environmental issues, carrying out regulatory, supervisory, scientific research, and educational activities to improve environmental quality and support sustainable development.

Mission and Objectives

The Environmental Protection Agency's primary mission is to reduce environmental risks by protecting human health and ensuring the sustainable use of natural resources. In this context, it develops policies and standards in areas such as air, water, and soil quality protection, management of toxic chemicals, safe disposal of waste, pollution prevention, and combating climate change. While the agency undertakes the supervisory duty in the implementation of environmental law, it also prioritizes the protection of communities in line with environmental justice principles.

Historical Development

Following an increase in environmental awareness in the US and severe environmental pollution incidents in the 1960s, the Agency was established as a federal agency on December 2, 1970. Its establishment reflected the necessity for a comprehensive intervention regarding environmental issues. The Agency ensured the implementation of important laws such as the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, and Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, leading to significant improvements in air and water quality in the US. The agency plays a central role in setting environmental standards and enforcing sanctions against violators.

Organizational Structure and Management

The Environmental Protection Agency is an organization managed by an Administrator and consists of various main offices and regional offices. Main offices include units such as the Office of Air and Radiation, Office of Water, Office of Waste Management and Emergency Response, and Office of Chemicals and Toxic Substances. The agency's 10 regional offices carry out on-site inspection, enforcement, and technical support duties nationwide. Furthermore, the agency is involved in scientific data production and policy development through its scientific research centers and advisory bodies.

Research and Scientific Support

The Environmental Protection Agency places great importance on scientific research in the fields of environment and health. The agency's research centers collect and analyze data on topics such as air quality, water pollution, toxicology, ecosystem health, biodiversity, and climate change. These studies enable the use of scientific evidence in environmental policy-making. The agency also provides scientific guidance in decision-making processes through its scientific advisory boards and committees of independent experts.

Budget and Planning

The Environmental Protection Agency's budget is approved annually by the U.S. Congress and planned by the agency's strategic objectives. The planning process includes the identification of environmental priorities, resource allocation, and the setting of performance targets. During this process, effective and efficient programs are developed to achieve environmental protection goals. The budget is used for environmental inspections, educational activities, research projects, and strengthening emergency response capabilities.

Environmental Issues and Programs

The Environmental Protection Agency operates in the following main environmental areas:

• Air Quality: Setting and monitoring air pollution limits, reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
• Water Resources: Protecting drinking water quality, wastewater management, and pollution prevention.
• Waste Management: Safe collection, transportation, and disposal of solid waste and hazardous waste.
• Chemicals and Toxic Substances: Identification, risk assessment, and management of chemicals harmful to human health.
• Climate Change: Promoting emission reduction, renewable energy, and environmental sustainability programs.
• Environmental Justice: Protecting socioeconomically disadvantaged communities from environmental risks.

The Environmental Protection Agency increases environmental awareness through public information campaigns, educational programs, and collaborations with industries. It also aims to encourage public participation in the implementation of environmental laws.