The Aspen Institute has revealed a list of 10 ways that the EPA has strengthened America over the past 40 years, commemorating the 40th anniversary of the EPA.
The list of accomplishments was compiled by more than 20 environmental thought leaders, including several former EPA officials, with experience in government, non-profit organizations, and private sector companies.
“Over its 40-year history, EPA has evolved into the world’s preeminent environmental regulatory agency through a balanced, three-pronged strategy, combining excellent science, regulatory enforcement, and engagement of all stakeholders in developing new solutions to environmental problems. EPA’s balanced, multifaceted structure and operation sets the standard around the world for applying strong science, as well as economic incentives and disincentives, to achieve positive environmental outcomes while allowing businesses to grow and prosper,” says Aspen Insitute President and CEO Walter Isaacson.
The highlights of the EPA’s accomplishments are as follows:
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Removing lead from gasoline—and from the air
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Removing the acid from rain
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Clearing secondhand smoke
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Vehicle efficiency and emissions control
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Controlling toxic substances
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Banning widespread use of DDT
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Rethinking waste as materials
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A clean environment for all/Environmental justice
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Cleaner water
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The “Community Right to Know” Act
For more information about the EPA’s 40th anniversary, visit www.epa.gov/40th/.
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