When the U.S. Congress writes an environmental law, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) implements it by writing regulations. Often, the EPA sets national standards that each of the states and tribes enforce through their own regulations. If states and tribes fail to meet the national standards, the EPA can help them. The EPA also enforces its regulations and helps businesses understand the requirements.

Businesses and industries with operations that may impact the environment are often subject to regulations written by the EPA. Some examples of businesses and industries subject to EPA regulations include:

• Agriculture

• Automotive

• Construction

• Electric Utilities

• Oil & Gas

• Transportation

• Dry Cleaning

• Education/Schools

• Forestry & Logging

• Health Care & Social Assistance

• Mining

• Manufacturing

• Water & Sewage Utilities

• Public Administration & Government

Businesses in these and other industries must comply with applicable environmental laws and EPA regulations—as well as state environmental laws and regulations. In addition to compliance with environmental laws and regulations, businesses in these industries often must address environmental matters when buying and selling their businesses and entering into transactions for products and services. For example, it is often important in such transactions to allocate risks and costs related to environmental cleanup, compliance, and other issues.

In Georgia, as in other states, businesses and industries are required to comply with both federal and state environmental laws and regulations. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is responsible for implementing federal environmental laws by creating regulations that set national standards. These standards are then enforced by state agencies, such as the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD), which may also have additional state-specific regulations. Industries such as agriculture, automotive, construction, utilities, and many others must adhere to these regulations to minimize their environmental impact. If businesses fail to meet these standards, they can face enforcement actions from both the EPA and state authorities. When businesses engage in transactions, environmental considerations, such as the allocation of risks and costs associated with environmental cleanup and compliance, are crucial. An attorney can help businesses navigate these complex regulations and ensure compliance to avoid penalties and facilitate smooth transactions.