American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

What type of impact statements are required by the National Environmental Policy Act?

1. Environmental impact statements

2. Economic impact statements

3. Community impact statements

4. Risk assessment statements

The correct answer is: Environmental impact statements

The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) specifically requires Environmental Impact Statements (EIS) as a means to assess the potential environmental effects of proposed federal actions. An EIS provides detailed information about the anticipated environmental impacts and considerations, allowing for informed decision-making. This process involves evaluating feasible alternatives, assessing the potential environmental effects, and involving the public in the discussion. An Environmental Impact Statement is essential to ensuring that environmental factors are weighted equally when compared to other factors in the planning and decision-making process. Through this mechanism, NEPA aims to promote transparency and public involvement, as well as encourage the consideration of the environment in governmental planning. While economic, community, and risk assessment statements may play vital roles in certain planning contexts, NEPA's framework specifically mandates the preparation of Environmental Impact Statements to comprehensively analyze the environmental ramifications of significant federal actions.