All Flashcards
What is the process of Superfund cleanup?
Identification of site, assessment of contamination, development of cleanup plan, implementation of cleanup, long-term monitoring.
What is the process of listing a species under the Endangered Species Act?
Petition, review by USFWS, determination of status (endangered or threatened), designation of critical habitat, development of recovery plan.
What is the process for regulating a pollutant under the Clean Air Act?
EPA identifies a pollutant, sets air quality standards, states develop plans to meet standards, monitoring and enforcement.
What is the effect of ozone depletion?
Increased UV radiation reaching Earth's surface, leading to skin cancer, cataracts, and harm to ecosystems.
What is the effect of releasing criteria pollutants into the air?
Respiratory problems, smog, acid rain, and damage to ecosystems.
What is the effect of water pollution from point sources?
Harm to aquatic life, contamination of drinking water, and reduced recreational opportunities.
What is the effect of habitat destruction on endangered species?
Loss of food sources, breeding grounds, and shelter, leading to population decline and extinction.
What is the effect of greenhouse gas emissions?
Global warming, climate change, sea level rise, and extreme weather events.
What is the effect of improper hazardous waste disposal?
Soil and water contamination, human health risks, and ecosystem damage.
What is the effect of lead in the atmosphere?
Neurological damage, especially in children.
What is the 'cradle to grave' concept?
Managing hazardous waste from its creation to its disposal; associated with RCRA.
What is the Superfund program?
A program under CERCLA to clean up abandoned toxic waste sites.
Why is international cooperation important for environmental protection?
Many environmental problems are global and require coordinated efforts to address effectively (e.g., climate change, endangered species trade).
What is the significance of setting limits for criteria pollutants?
It helps to protect human health and the environment from the harmful effects of air pollution.
Why is regulating point source pollution important?
It prevents pollutants from entering waterways and harming aquatic ecosystems and human health.
Why is protecting endangered species important?
Endangered species play important roles in ecosystems, and their loss can have cascading effects.
Why is phasing out ozone-depleting substances important?
It allows the ozone layer to recover, protecting life on Earth from harmful UV radiation.
What is the significance of the Delaney Clause?
It sets a strict standard for food safety by prohibiting the addition of carcinogens to food and drugs.
What is the importance of protecting drinking water sources?
Ensures public health by providing access to safe and clean drinking water.
Why is tracking hazardous waste important?
Ensures proper disposal and prevents environmental contamination and health risks.