National Environmental Policy Act

What are NEPA Actions?

NEPA (National Environmental Policy Act) Actions, such as Environmental Assessments (EAs) and Environmental Impact Statements (EIS), are required by federal agencies, including the Air Force, to assess the potential environmental impacts of their proposed actions, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Air Force Installations use NEPA actions to comply with environmental regulations and ensure environmental considerations are factored into projects before making decisions. 

Testing planting techniques

Why is the Air Force involved with NEPA?

  • Compliance:

    Air Force installations, as federal entities, are subject to NEPA requirements for all actions they manage, regulate, or fund. 

  • Environmental Protection:

    NEPA actions are designed to prevent or minimize environmental impacts from Air Force activities. 

  • Informed Decision-Making:

    NEPA helps ensure that Air Force leaders make decisions with a clear understanding of the environmental consequences of their actions. 

  • Public Transparency:

    The NEPA process promotes public involvement and ensures that the public is aware of potential impacts. 

  • Types of Activities Requiring NEPA Review:

    • Construction and infrastructure projects. 
    • Land management decisions. 
    • Permit applications. 

What does NEPA Require?

  • NEPA requires federal agencies to assess the environmental consequences of their proposed actions before making decisions, using the Environmental Impact Analysis Process (EIAP). 
     
  • This process ensures environmental considerations are factored into project planning and decision-making. 
     
  • NEPA actions can include various levels of review, such as:
    • Categorical Exclusions (CATEX): Determine if a proposed action does not have a significant impact on the environment and is therefore exempt from detailed environmental analysis. 
    • Environmental Assessments (EA): Determine whether a proposed action could cause significant environmental effects, prompting further analysis if necessary. 
    • Environmental Impact Statements (EIS): Conduct a detailed analysis of a project's potential impacts, if a project is likely to have significant environmental effects. 
       
  • NEPA mandates public involvement to promote full disclosure of potential environmental impacts and to help decision-makers reach informed decisions. 

Environmental stewardship