Environmental Law Enforcement

Environmental law is a combination of common law and legislation that works together in attempt to limit humans' negative impact on nature. Environmental law and policy is usually focused on two broad categories: reduction of pollution and conservation of natural resources. Pollution is broken down into air, water, and land pollution. Environmental law and policy will set limits for the amount of contaminants that are allowed to be released, and there are strict penalties for exceeding emission limits. Environmental law and policy that is focused on conservation will be centered on the protection of specific natural resources. There is legislation protecting natural forests, endangered animal species, and mineral deposits. There are limits set regarding the use, distribution, and commercial aspect of these resources. Sites that are particularly scenic in nature and relatively undisturbed by human intervention will also have specific laws governing their use.

Environmental law and policy is designed, not only to preserve the natural environment, but also to promote a healthy lifestyle for humans. Pollution laws, for example, protect nature, and protect humans from harmful toxins that could lead to health conditions. Environmental law enforcement has derived from legislation and the common law. There are federal statutes, such as the Natural Environmental Policy Act, that promote the protection of the environment. The U.S. government has established the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to oversee all activities concerning the environment and human health. This agency has developed a multitude of legislation concerning: endangered species, wilderness protection, hazardous waste disposal, safe drinking water, and air pollution control. Judge's decisions ruling on environmental tort cases have set precedent for how damages should be collected. Environmental law and policy allows for plaintiffs to collect from defendants who are guilty of environmental nuisance, trespass, and negligence. These cases usually force defendants to pay monetary damages, and can sometimes result in an injunction that will stop the harmful behavior. If an environmental violation is particularly severe, it may result in criminal penalties.

Environmental law enforcement is generally handled by a separate task force of an environmental agency. These individuals will be responsible for all environmental law enforcement, including: investigating businesses and other establishments suspected of violating regulations, issuing citations to those who commit an environmental violation, and closely monitoring citizens to ensure that regulations continue to be followed.