Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Business Law Practice Exam

What is the role of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)?

1. To manage the United States' economy

2. To oversee government infrastructure projects

3. To protect the environment and enforce regulations related to environmental conservation

4. To regulate international trade agreements

The correct answer is: To protect the environment and enforce regulations related to environmental conservation

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is primarily tasked with protecting human health and the environment. Its role encompasses creating and enforcing regulations that are designed to ensure environmental conservation. This includes regulating pollution, overseeing hazardous waste management, and implementing laws that protect air and water quality. The agency also conducts environmental assessments and research to inform policy decisions and promote sustainability. The focus on environmental preservation directly ties to the EPA's purpose, which is to ensure that the environmental health of communities is preserved and that natural resources are used responsibly. The agency operates through the enforcement of various environmental laws, including the Clean Air Act and the Clean Water Act. This clear and defined purpose distinguishes the EPA from other government entities that may focus on economic management, infrastructure projects, or international trade—the responsibilities of which do not align with environmental oversight and protection.