The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) is a landmark piece of environmental legislation enacted in 1969 that requires federal agencies to assess the environmental effects of their proposed actions before making decisions. This act laid the groundwork for an environmental review process that includes the preparation of Environmental Assessments (EAs) and Environmental Impact Statements (EISs), ensuring that environmental factors are considered alongside economic and technical considerations. NEPA has been a crucial tool in promoting environmental justice by allowing public participation and transparency in the decision-making process, especially for marginalized communities often disproportionately affected by environmental degradation.
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