How Well Do You Know The EPA?

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1. What does VOC stand for?

Explanation

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) refers to a group of chemicals that easily vaporize at room temperature. These compounds are commonly found in various products and materials, including paints, cleaning agents, and fuels. VOCs can have harmful effects on human health and the environment, contributing to air pollution and the formation of smog. Therefore, it is important to minimize the use of products containing VOCs and ensure proper ventilation in indoor spaces to reduce exposure to these compounds.

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How Well Do You Know The EPA? - Quiz

Explore your knowledge of water usage with the 'How well do you know the EPA? ' quiz. Discover how much water is used in daily activities and industrial... see moreprocesses, and learn about the global distribution of freshwater. This quiz assesses your understanding of environmental impact and sustainability. see less

2. A running toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water per day.

Explanation

A running toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water per day because when a toilet is running, it means that water is continuously flowing into the toilet bowl and then draining out. This constant flow of water can add up quickly and result in a significant amount of water being wasted over time. In the case of a running toilet, the water wastage can reach up to 200 gallons per day, which is a substantial amount and can have a negative impact on water conservation efforts.

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3. At 50 gallons per day, residential Europeans use about half of the water that residential Americans use.

Explanation

Residential Europeans use about half of the water that residential Americans use because they consume 50 gallons per day, which is less than what residential Americans use.

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4. National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) are set standards for wide-spread pollutants from numerous and diverse sources considered harmful to public health and the environment.

Explanation

The explanation for the given correct answer is that National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) are indeed set standards for pollutants that are considered harmful to public health and the environment. These standards are established by regulatory agencies to ensure that the air quality meets certain criteria and to protect the well-being of the population and the ecosystem. Therefore, it is true that NAAQS are standards for widespread pollutants from various sources.

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5. In relation to EPA's regulations, PSD stands for:

Explanation

PSD stands for Prevention of Significant Deterioration. This term is related to the regulations set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA's PSD program aims to prevent or minimize the deterioration of air quality in areas that already have clean air. It requires permits for new major stationary sources of air pollution, such as power plants or factories, and sets emission limits for these sources to ensure they do not cause significant deterioration of air quality. The program helps protect and maintain the quality of air in areas that already have good air quality.

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6. In 1973, auto manufacturers agreed to adopt a plan that would help cut emissions by 85% by installing catalytic converters in cars.

Explanation

In 1973, auto manufacturers agreed to adopt a plan to reduce emissions by 85% by installing catalytic converters in cars. This statement is true because catalytic converters are a technology designed to reduce harmful emissions from vehicles. By installing these converters, auto manufacturers aimed to significantly decrease the amount of pollutants released into the environment, thus helping to improve air quality and reduce the impact of cars on climate change.

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7. More than ____ % of what we throw away comes from cardboard and plastic packaging.

Explanation

More than 30% of what we throw away comes from cardboard and plastic packaging. This means that a significant portion of our waste is generated by these materials, highlighting the need for proper recycling and waste management practices. Cardboard and plastic packaging are commonly used for various products, and their disposal contributes significantly to the overall waste stream. By reducing our reliance on these materials and promoting recycling, we can help minimize the environmental impact of packaging waste.

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8. Which EPA seal is currently being used?
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9. In order to submit a comment to EPA on a proposed rule, a commentor must have their congressman sign off on the comment.

Explanation

The statement is false. In order to submit a comment to EPA on a proposed rule, a commentor does not need to have their congressman sign off on the comment. The EPA accepts comments from the general public and does not require any specific endorsement or approval from a congressman.

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10. The establishment of the EPA was done in conjunction with what other US governmental organization?

Explanation

The correct answer is the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The EPA, or Environmental Protection Agency, was established in 1970 by President Richard Nixon in response to growing concerns about environmental pollution. The EPA works to protect human health and the environment by enforcing regulations and conducting research on various environmental issues. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is another US governmental organization that focuses on the study and conservation of the Earth's oceans and atmosphere. The establishment of the EPA and NOAA together demonstrates the US government's commitment to environmental protection and conservation.

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11. In 1979 the EPA published final rules to control noise which included restrictions on the following:

Explanation

The EPA published final rules in 1979 to control noise, and these rules included restrictions on air compressors, trucks/cars, and railroad engines. Therefore, the correct answer is "All of the above" because all of these items were subject to restrictions according to the EPA rules.

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12. The typical suburban lawn consumes 10,000 gallons of water above and beyond rainwater each year.

Explanation

The statement is true because suburban lawns require a significant amount of water to maintain their lush appearance. This water consumption includes the irrigation needed to keep the grass green and healthy, as well as any additional water used for tasks like washing off sidewalks or driveways. This high water usage contributes to overall water waste and can put a strain on local water resources.

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13. Roughly 634 gallons of water go into the production of one hamburger.

Explanation

This statement is true because the production of a hamburger involves various stages such as growing crops for animal feed, raising livestock, processing meat, and packaging. Each of these stages requires a significant amount of water, including irrigation for crops, drinking water for animals, and water used in processing and cleaning. Therefore, it is estimated that approximately 634 gallons of water are used in the overall production of one hamburger.

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14. Are you allowed to visit inside the EPA headquarters in Washington, DC?

Explanation

Yes, you are allowed to visit inside the EPA headquarters in Washington, DC. This suggests that the EPA headquarters is open to the public for visits and tours.

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15. Which EPA program makes previous polluters of a site pay for the site's clean-up?

Explanation

The SuperFund program is an EPA program that holds previous polluters responsible for the clean-up of contaminated sites. It was established in 1980 to address sites that pose a risk to human health and the environment due to hazardous waste. The program requires those responsible for the pollution to either clean up the site themselves or reimburse the government for the cost of the clean-up. This ensures that the financial burden of remediation falls on the parties responsible for the pollution, rather than taxpayers.

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16. What was the name of Rachel Carson's book that influenced public opinion about the dangers of DDT?

Explanation

Rachel Carson's book, "Silent Spring," influenced public opinion about the dangers of DDT. This book, published in 1962, exposed the harmful effects of the pesticide on the environment and human health. Carson's work sparked a national conversation about the use of chemicals in agriculture and ultimately led to the banning of DDT in the United States. "Silent Spring" is considered a landmark book in the environmental movement and played a significant role in raising awareness about the need for environmental protection.

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17. When pre-rinsing dishes before putting them in the dishwasher, one can use up to ____ gallon(s) of water.

Explanation

When pre-rinsing dishes before putting them in the dishwasher, one can use up to 20 gallons of water. This means that if someone chooses to rinse their dishes before loading them into the dishwasher, they may use as much as 20 gallons of water in the process.

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18. What does the symbol of the EPA look like?

Explanation

The symbol of the EPA is a representation of the sun and water wave inside the head of a flower. This symbol signifies the agency's focus on protecting and preserving the environment, as the sun represents energy and the water wave represents the importance of water resources. The flower symbolizes nature and the need to maintain a healthy ecosystem. Overall, the symbol conveys the EPA's mission to safeguard the environment and promote sustainability.

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19. The EPA's budget for expenses in fiscal year 2013 is lower than 2012.

Explanation

The EPA's budget for expenses in fiscal year 2013 is lower than 2012. This means that the amount of money allocated for expenses by the EPA in 2013 was less than what was allocated in 2012. This could be due to various reasons such as budget cuts, changes in priorities, or a decrease in funding.

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20. Which one is NOT an EPA office:

Explanation

The Office of Endangered Species is not an EPA office because it is actually a part of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, which is a separate agency under the Department of the Interior. The EPA focuses on protecting human health and the environment, while the Office of Endangered Species is responsible for conserving and protecting endangered and threatened species and their habitats.

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21. Which of these is NOT one of the Six Common Air Pollutants?

Explanation

Dihydrogen Monoxide is not one of the Six Common Air Pollutants. The Six Common Air Pollutants, also known as criteria pollutants, are Carbon Monoxide, Lead, Nitrogen Dioxide, Ozone, Particulate Matter, and Sulfur Dioxide. Dihydrogen Monoxide is not a recognized air pollutant and refers to water (H2O), which is not typically considered a pollutant in the context of air pollution.

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22. Who was EPA's first Administrator?

Explanation

William D. Ruckelshaus was the first Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). He served as the EPA Administrator from 1970 to 1973. Ruckelshaus played a crucial role in establishing the EPA and implementing key environmental policies during its early years. He was known for his dedication to environmental protection and his efforts to enforce regulations to improve air and water quality. Ruckelshaus's appointment as the first EPA Administrator highlights his significant contributions to the field of environmental protection.

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23. When was the EPA formed?

Explanation

The correct answer is December 2nd, 1970. This date is significant because it marks the formation of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA was established by an executive order signed by President Richard Nixon in response to growing concerns about environmental pollution and the need for a centralized agency to address these issues. Since its formation, the EPA has been responsible for regulating and enforcing environmental laws, conducting research, and implementing policies to protect human health and the environment.

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24. Black Carbon contributes to the warming of the atmosphere.

Explanation

Black carbon, also known as soot, is a type of fine particulate matter that is produced from incomplete combustion of fossil fuels, biomass, and biofuels. When released into the atmosphere, black carbon absorbs sunlight and heats the surrounding air. This leads to an increase in atmospheric temperature, contributing to global warming. Therefore, the statement that black carbon contributes to the warming of the atmosphere is true.

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25. There used to be an Office of Noise Pollution.

Explanation

The statement suggests that there was an Office of Noise Pollution in the past. This implies that at some point, there was a government organization or department dedicated to addressing and managing noise pollution.

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26. The four main greenhouse gases are carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide and fluorinated gases.

Explanation

The explanation for the correct answer is that carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, and fluorinated gases are indeed the four main greenhouse gases. These gases trap heat in the Earth's atmosphere, leading to the greenhouse effect and contributing to global warming. Carbon dioxide is the most abundant greenhouse gas and is primarily emitted through the burning of fossil fuels. Methane is released during the production and transport of coal, oil, and natural gas. Nitrous oxide is emitted through agricultural and industrial activities. Fluorinated gases are synthetic gases used in a variety of industrial applications.

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27. Who is the current EPA administrator?

Explanation

Gina McCarthy is the correct answer for the current EPA administrator.

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28. On average, how much water do we use to take a shower?

Explanation

The average amount of water used to take a shower is between 15 and 30 gallons. This range is considered typical for a standard shower, taking into account factors such as shower duration, water flow rate, and personal habits. It is important to be mindful of water usage and consider ways to conserve water while showering, such as using low-flow showerheads or taking shorter showers.

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29. In January 1971, a tribunal of the U.S. Court of Appeals in the District of Columbia ordered Ruckelshaus to begin the process of suspending DDT's registration, and to consider suspending its registration immediately. At the end of a sixty-day review process, the administrator reported that he had found no good reason to suspend DDT registration immediately. It and several other pesticides did not appear to constitute imminent health threats.  

Explanation

The explanation for the given correct answer is that in January 1971, the U.S. Court of Appeals ordered Ruckelshaus to begin the process of suspending DDT's registration. However, after a sixty-day review process, the administrator reported that there was no good reason to suspend DDT registration immediately. This suggests that the statement "In January 1971, a tribunal of the U.S. Court of Appeals in the District of Columbia ordered Ruckelshaus to begin the process of suspending DDT's registration, and to consider suspending its registration immediately" is true.

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30. How much of our electricity comes from burning fossil fuels, coal and natural gas?

Explanation

Over 70% of our electricity comes from burning fossil fuels, coal, and natural gas. This indicates that a significant majority of our electricity generation relies on non-renewable sources. Fossil fuels are known to contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change, making it crucial for us to transition to cleaner and more sustainable energy sources.

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31. It takes more water to fill an above ground swimming pool than to manufacture a new car.

Explanation

This statement is false. It takes significantly more water to manufacture a new car than to fill an above ground swimming pool. The manufacturing process of a car involves various stages that require large amounts of water, such as the production of steel, painting, and assembly. On the other hand, filling an above ground swimming pool typically requires a few thousand gallons of water, which is considerably less than the amount used in car manufacturing.

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32. On average, how much water do we use to brush teeth?

Explanation

On average, we use 1 gallon of water to brush our teeth. This is because when we brush our teeth, we typically keep the faucet running, which leads to a continuous flow of water. This can result in using a significant amount of water if left running for an extended period of time. However, if we turn off the faucet while brushing and only use water to rinse our mouth and toothbrush, we can significantly reduce the amount of water used to just 1 gallon.

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33. When did the EPA issue Mandatory Reporting for Greenhouse Gases (GHGs)?

Explanation

The EPA issued Mandatory Reporting for Greenhouse Gases (GHGs) in 2009. This means that in 2009, the EPA implemented regulations that required certain facilities to report their greenhouse gas emissions. This was a significant step in addressing and monitoring the impact of greenhouse gases on the environment.

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34. Since 1990, U.S. greenhouse gas emissions have increased by about 10%.

Explanation

The given statement is true because it states that U.S. greenhouse gas emissions have increased by about 10% since 1990. This means that there has been a rise in the amount of greenhouse gases being released into the atmosphere in the United States over the past few decades.

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35. How many Regional Offices does the EPA have?

Explanation

The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) has 10 regional offices. These regional offices are responsible for implementing and enforcing environmental laws and regulations at the local level. Each region covers a specific geographic area and works closely with states, tribes, and local communities to address environmental issues and protect human health and the environment. Having multiple regional offices allows the EPA to have a presence and address environmental concerns across the country.

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36. In the first year of operation, how many industrial pollution cases did the EPA refer to the Department of Justice for prosecution?

Explanation

The correct answer is 152. This means that in the first year of operation, the EPA referred 152 industrial pollution cases to the Department of Justice for prosecution.

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37. On average, how much water do we use to produce one ton of steel?

Explanation

The correct answer is 62,600 gallons. This means that, on average, it takes 62,600 gallons of water to produce one ton of steel.

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38. Which one of these labels are put on products to ensure that they are environmentally safe?

Explanation

The correct answer is "Eco-friendly label". This label is put on products to ensure that they are environmentally safe. It indicates that the product has been manufactured with minimal impact on the environment and is designed to be sustainable throughout its lifecycle. The label helps consumers make informed choices and encourages businesses to adopt more environmentally friendly practices.

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39. In regards to the EPA, Bush declared 2003 the year of...

Explanation

Bush declared 2003 the year of water in regards to the EPA. This suggests that during that year, the focus and emphasis of the EPA's efforts were on water-related issues. It implies that the government aimed to address and improve water quality, conservation, and management. This declaration may have led to increased awareness, funding, and initiatives to protect and preserve water resources during that specific year.

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40. Approximately how many employees does the EPA have?

Explanation

The correct answer is 17,000. This suggests that the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) has approximately 17,000 employees.

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41. What year did the EPA propose noise rules for supersonic transports (SSTs) applying FAA's standards for subsonic jets to future SSTs?

Explanation

In 1975, the EPA proposed noise rules for supersonic transports (SSTs) by applying the FAA's standards for subsonic jets to future SSTs. This means that the EPA suggested using the same noise regulations that were already in place for subsonic jets for the new supersonic transports.

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42. How old was William D. Ruckelshaus when he was first appointed as EPA's administrator?

Explanation

William D. Ruckelshaus was 38 years old when he was first appointed as EPA's administrator.

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43. What percentage of the fresh water on Earth is trapped in glaciers?

Explanation

Approximately 68.7% of the fresh water on Earth is trapped in glaciers. Glaciers are large bodies of ice that form from the accumulation and compaction of snow over many years. They are found in polar regions and high mountainous areas. Due to their size and the slow melting process, glaciers store a significant amount of fresh water. This makes them an important source of freshwater for many rivers and lakes, as well as a crucial component of the Earth's water cycle.

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44. Under the current EPA's audit policy, how many days does an entity have to voluntarily disclose a violation once it has or may have occurred?

Explanation

Under the current EPA's audit policy, an entity has 21 days to voluntarily disclose a violation once it has or may have occurred.

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45. The Earth's temperature has risen by how much over the past century?

Explanation

The Earth's temperature has risen by 1.4°F over the past century.

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46. How long can Carbon Dioxide stay in the atmosphere?

Explanation

Carbon dioxide can stay in the atmosphere for almost a century. This is due to its long atmospheric lifetime, which is influenced by various factors such as chemical reactions and physical processes. Carbon dioxide is a greenhouse gas, meaning it traps heat in the atmosphere and contributes to global warming. Its long lifespan in the atmosphere allows it to have a lasting impact on the Earth's climate system, leading to long-term changes in temperature and weather patterns.

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47. The third annual EPA Greenhouse Gas Emissions Data from Large Facilities showed an increase in greenhouse gas emissions.

Explanation

The given statement is "The third annual EPA Greenhouse Gas Emissions Data from Large Facilities showed an increase in greenhouse gas emissions." The correct answer is False. This means that the third annual EPA Greenhouse Gas Emissions Data from Large Facilities did not show an increase in greenhouse gas emissions.

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48. How many gallons of water does an average dishwasher use per cycle?

Explanation

An average dishwasher uses 6 gallons of water per cycle. This indicates that during one complete cycle of the dishwasher, 6 gallons of water are consumed.

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49. Match the different sources of GHG emissions to their percentage of emission contribution in the U.S.
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50. When was the Clean Air Act law first created?

Explanation

The Clean Air Act law was first created in 1963.

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51. On average, how much water do we use to manufacture a car and its four tires?

Explanation

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52. Match the different sources of GHG emissions to their percentage of contribution in the U.S.
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What does VOC stand for?
A running toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water per day.
At 50 gallons per day, residential Europeans use about half of the...
National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) are set standards for...
In relation to EPA's regulations, PSD stands for:
In 1973, auto manufacturers agreed to adopt a plan that would help cut...
More than ____ % of what we throw away comes from cardboard and...
Which EPA seal is currently being used?
In order to submit a comment to EPA on a proposed rule, a commentor...
The establishment of the EPA was done in conjunction with what other...
In 1979 the EPA published final rules to control noise which included...
The typical suburban lawn consumes 10,000 gallons of water above and...
Roughly 634 gallons of water go into the production of one hamburger.
Are you allowed to visit inside the EPA headquarters in Washington,...
Which EPA program makes previous polluters of a site pay for the...
What was the name of Rachel Carson's book that influenced public...
When pre-rinsing dishes before putting them in the dishwasher, one can...
What does the symbol of the EPA look like?
The EPA's budget for expenses in fiscal year 2013 is lower than...
Which one is NOT an EPA office:
Which of these is NOT one of the Six Common Air Pollutants?
Who was EPA's first Administrator?
When was the EPA formed?
Black Carbon contributes to the warming of the atmosphere.
There used to be an Office of Noise Pollution.
The four main greenhouse gases are carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous...
Who is the current EPA administrator?
On average, how much water do we use to take a shower?
In January 1971, a tribunal of the U.S. Court of Appeals in the...
How much of our electricity comes from burning fossil fuels, coal and...
It takes more water to fill an above ground swimming pool than to...
On average, how much water do we use to brush teeth?
When did the EPA issue Mandatory Reporting for Greenhouse Gases...
Since 1990, U.S. greenhouse gas emissions have increased by about 10%.
How many Regional Offices does the EPA have?
In the first year of operation, how many industrial pollution cases...
On average, how much water do we use to produce one ton of steel?
Which one of these labels are put on products to ensure that they are...
In regards to the EPA, Bush declared 2003 the year of...
Approximately how many employees does the EPA have?
What year did the EPA propose noise rules for supersonic transports...
How old was William D. Ruckelshaus when he was first appointed as...
What percentage of the fresh water on Earth is trapped in glaciers?
Under the current EPA's audit policy, how many days does an entity...
The Earth's temperature has risen by how much over the past century?
How long can Carbon Dioxide stay in the atmosphere?
The third annual EPA Greenhouse Gas Emissions Data from Large...
How many gallons of water does an average dishwasher use per cycle?
Match the different sources of GHG emissions to their percentage of...
When was the Clean Air Act law first created?
On average, how much water do we use to manufacture a car and its four...
Match the different sources of GHG emissions to their percentage...
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