What is the primary goal of the Council on Environmental Quality?

The primary goal of the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) is to assess the impacts of development on the environment, which encompasses a broad range of factors including ecological, economic, and social considerations. Established by the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) of 1969, the CEQ oversees the federal government's approach to environmental assessments and reviews, ensuring that all significant environmental effects of proposed federal actions are considered. This role includes facilitating the environmental review process and guiding federal agencies in adhering to sustainable development practices.

By focusing on the assessment of impacts, the CEQ plays a critical role in promoting informed decision-making and transparency in environmental management. This process is essential for balancing development needs with environmental preservation, thereby fostering sustainable growth. The efficacy of environmental policy requires thorough evaluations of potential effects, which is exactly what the CEQ is designed to facilitate.