Environmental Issues – Key Words

These key words are helpful  when dealing with “Public Service” concerning environmental issues.

• FONSI – Finding of no significant impact.
• NEPA – National Environmental Policy Act
• ROD – Record of decision.  This is written up after the final Environment Impact Statement has been published.  It includes alternatives considered, the Environmental Impacts of the alternatives and reasoning used to determine final decision.
• Environmental Assessment – Similar to Environmental impact, but less comprehensive.Included short discussion for need of project.  Possible alternatives to the action including taking no action.  Opportunity for public comment at the study and proposed action.  EAch will have one of two results FONSI or ROD.
• Environmental Impact Statement – Accompanies every Federal recommendation or proposal for legislation. A document that describes the nature of the proposal, why needed, short/long term impacts of the proposal and possible alternatives to the proposed action that would create fewer adverse effects.  NEPA requires solicitation of public comments when preparing an EIS, generally provides a broader perspective on the proposal and likely effects.
• Environmental Justice – The right of every citizen regardless of age, race, gender, social class or to adequate protection from environmental hazards.
• Environmental Literacy – Environmental Education.
• Executive Branch – Headed by the President of the United States, also home to various administrative agencies.  They receive authority for the statutes adopted thru the legislative branch.  This agency is responsible for making the goal of the statute happen.
• Judicial Branch – Includes the Supreme and Lower Courts.  Responsible for interpretation of statutes.
• Legislative Branch – Responsible for recognizing an environmental issue that must be addressed and writing a bill that will be considered.  If passed, it becomes a statute or law.
• Precautionary Principle – Making new decisions about a new technology or chemical product by assigning the burden of proof of it’s safety to the developers of that technology or product.