American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

Which agency was established in 1970 to administer the Clean Air Act?

1. Federal Environmental Protection Agency

2. Environmental Quality Commission

3. National Resources Conservation Service

4. Occupational Safety and Health Administration

The correct answer is: Federal Environmental Protection Agency

The agency that was established in 1970 to administer the Clean Air Act is the Federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The Clean Air Act is a comprehensive federal law that regulates air emissions from stationary and mobile sources. The establishment of the EPA was a significant step in the United States toward environmental protection, allowing for the development and enforcement of national air quality standards. The creation of the EPA enabled more focused and effective administration of air quality regulations, as it centralized various environmental responsibilities that were previously scattered among different federal agencies. The agency's primary mission includes protecting human health and the environment by ensuring that the air quality meets established standards. Other options do not align with this specific purpose. The Environmental Quality Commission generally deals with state-level environmental management rather than federal air quality regulations. The National Resources Conservation Service primarily focuses on land and water conservation. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is concerned with workplace safety and health rather than environmental air quality. By understanding the distinct roles of these agencies, it becomes clear why the Federal Environmental Protection Agency is the correct answer.