All Flashcards
What is the effect of lead regulation under the Clean Air Act?
Dramatic decrease in atmospheric lead levels.
What is the effect of ozone depletion?
Increased UV radiation reaching the Earth's surface.
What is the effect of point source pollution?
Contamination of water bodies and harm to aquatic life.
What is the effect of habitat destruction?
Loss of biodiversity and increased risk of species extinction.
What is the effect of climate change?
Rising global temperatures, altered weather patterns, and sea level rise.
What is the effect of unsustainable international trade?
Endangerment or extinction of species.
What is the effect of hazardous waste contamination?
Soil and water pollution, posing risks to human and environmental health.
What is the effect of the Montreal Protocol?
Reduction in ozone-depleting substances and recovery of the ozone layer.
What is the effect of the Endangered Species Act?
Protection and recovery of listed species and their habitats.
What is the effect of the Clean Water Act?
Improved water quality and protection of aquatic ecosystems.
Define 'criteria pollutants'.
Common air pollutants with set limits under the Clean Air Act.
Define 'point source pollution'.
Pollution from a single, identifiable source.
Define 'endangered species'.
A species in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range.
Define 'threatened species'.
A species likely to become endangered in the foreseeable future.
Define 'ozone-depleting substances (ODS)'.
Substances that deplete the stratospheric ozone layer.
Define 'carcinogen'.
A substance capable of causing cancer in living tissue.
Define 'hazardous waste'.
Waste that is dangerous or potentially harmful to human health or the environment.
Define 'Superfund site'.
A contaminated site identified for cleanup under CERCLA.
Define 'primary standards' (CAA).
Air quality standards set to protect human health.
Define 'secondary standards' (CAA).
Air quality standards set to protect property, visibility, and crops.
What is the 'cradle to grave' concept?
Managing hazardous waste from generation to disposal.
Explain 'Best Practicable Technology' (BPT).
Pollution control standard for point sources under the Clean Water Act.
Explain 'Best Available Technology' (BAT).
Pollution control standard for toxic substances under the Clean Water Act.
What is the significance of international agreements in environmental protection?
Global cooperation is essential for addressing transboundary environmental problems.
Explain the importance of regulating international trade in endangered species.
Prevents species extinction due to unsustainable trade practices.
What is the role of the EPA in environmental legislation?
Enforces environmental laws and sets standards.
Why is tracking hazardous waste important?
Ensures proper disposal and prevents environmental contamination.
What is the significance of the Delaney Clause?
Strict standard for food safety, preventing carcinogenic additives.
Why are recovery plans important for endangered species?
Provide a roadmap for bringing species back from the brink of extinction.
What are the goals of the Clean Water Act?
Make all waters 'fishable and swimmable'.