Certified in Public Health (CPH) Practice Exam

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What is the main objective of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969?

  1. To subject a proposed major project or action to an environmental review

  2. To ensure that an important industrial project or action is constructed

  3. To ensure that the environment is protected at all cost

  4. To achieve sustainable development while relieving community concerns

The correct answer is: To subject a proposed major project or action to an environmental review

The main objective of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) of 1969 is to ensure that all major federal projects and actions undergo a thorough environmental review process. This legislation requires federal agencies to assess the environmental effects of their proposed actions before making decisions, which is foundational in promoting informed decision-making. By mandating the preparation of an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) or Environmental Assessment (EA), NEPA serves to identify potential environmental consequences and consider alternatives, thus providing a framework for the public to have a voice in projects that could affect their community and environment. While other options touch upon elements related to environmental protection, they do not encapsulate NEPA's primary purpose, which is specifically focused on the review and disclosure process for major projects. This review aims to balance economic development with environmental integrity, but the crux of NEPA is the requirement for evaluation, making it fundamental to the environmental planning process in the United States.