What is the substantive goal of NEPA reform?

The substantive goal of NEPA reform is the protection of the environment. NEPA, which stands for the National Environmental Policy Act, was enacted to ensure that environmental factors are considered in federal agency decision-making processes. The goal of NEPA is to enhance public awareness and support for environmental protection by requiring federal agencies to prepare Environmental Assessments (EAs) and Environmental Impact Statements (EISs) for major federal actions significantly affecting the quality of the human environment. This focus on environmental preservation, while facilitating responsible development, underscores the importance of balancing individual actions with broader ecological impacts. By reforming NEPA, the intent is to strengthen the framework through which environmental considerations are integrated into federal planning and decision-making processes, ultimately leading to more sustainable outcomes.