What is a key function of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)?

The key function of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is to regulate water quality standards. This role involves establishing and enforcing regulations that ensure the safety and cleanliness of water sources for public health and the environment. The EPA's responsibilities include setting limits on pollutants in water bodies, overseeing water treatment processes, and ensuring compliance with laws such as the Clean Water Act. This regulation is essential for protecting aquatic ecosystems, ensuring safe drinking water, and maintaining public health.

While improving energy efficiency, monitoring agricultural practices, and managing wildlife conservation are important environmental issues, they are not the primary focus of the EPA. Various other governmental and non-governmental organizations may address those areas, but water quality regulation is a fundamental aspect of the EPA's mission and core responsibilities.