U.S. Environmental Regulations

Catalog description

Credits 3. 3 Lecture Hours. This course provides an overview of the U.S. legal infrastructure regulating environmental impacts. Students will explore core legal and scientific terminology, historical developments and the core role of the EPA. Major regulations of key statutes addressing air and water quality, waste management, hazardous substances, energy and natural resources are examined in detail. Emphasis is placed on the rationale behind environmental regulations and the regulatory process. Additional topics include the role of science in shaping policy and the influence of international agreements and environmental justice. Through case studies and projects, students evaluate the effectiveness of environmental regulations in addressing real-world challenges. Prerequisites: BESC 201 , ENSS 105 or RWFM 308 .