When is an environmental impact statement required?

An environmental impact statement (EIS) is required for projects that may significantly affect the quality of the human environment. This requirement is grounded in the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), which mandates that federal agencies assess the environmental effects of their proposed actions before making decisions. The statement provides a detailed analysis of potential environmental impacts, alternatives to the proposed project, and any mitigation measures that could reduce adverse effects.

By focusing on projects that affect human environmental quality, the EIS serves as a critical tool in ensuring that decision-makers consider environmental consequences and promote sustainable practices. While urban development and public funding can involve environmental assessments, they do not universally trigger the necessity for an EIS unless they impact the human environment significantly. Therefore, the correct answer pertains directly to the broader principle of evaluating environmental effects in a variety of contexts, aligning with regulatory requirements.