Methods of Conservation: Conservation Laws

Over the last five decades, leadership in environmental protection has allowed generations of Americans to benefit from dramatically improved air and water, reduced exposure to harmful chemicals, and conserved natural resources, wildlife, and fish. There are quite a few laws and statutes that have made profound contributions to help the environment. The Clean Water Act, National Environmental Policy Act, Endangered Species Act, Marine Mammal Protection Act, Lacey Act, and Clean Air Act are just a few to know.

Clean Water Act: Establishes regulations for pollution discharge in the U.S. and surface water quality standards

National Environmental Policy Act: Provides a national policy for the environment and established the Council on Environmental Quality

Endangered Species Act: Primary law for protecting imperiled species from extinction

Marine Mammal Protection Act: Restricts human actions that can affect marine mammals

Lacey Act: Prohibits trade in fish, wildlife, and plants that have been illegally obtained, transported, or sold

Clean Air Act: Limits national air pollution