What is the primary mission of the EPA?

The primary mission of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is to protect human health and the environment. This encompasses a broad range of activities aimed at ensuring that air, water, and land are safe and non-toxic, thereby fostering a healthy and sustainable environment for current and future generations. The agency implements and enforces regulations that limit pollution and manage the discharge of harmful substances, ultimately striving for overall public health and environmental preservation.

In contrast, while managing hazardous waste disposal, regulating workplace safety, and overseeing industrial compliance are important functions that may fall under the EPA's purview, they serve as specific components or means through which the overarching mission of safeguarding human health and the environment is achieved.