What is SEPA?
The Washington State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) provides a way to identify possible environmental impacts that may result from governmental decisions. These decisions may be related to issuing permits for private projects, constructing public facilities, or adopting regulations, policies or plans. Information provided during the SEPA review process helps agency decision-makers, applicants, and the public understand how a proposal will affect the environment. This information can be used to change a proposal to reduce likely impacts. For more information about the SEPA process, visit the Washington State Department of Ecology.
What is NEPA?
The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) was enacted by Congress in December of 1969, and signed into law by President Nixon on January 1, 1970. Federal agencies must comply with the NEPA process, which examines the environmental impact of projects resulting from government decisions. The Port of Seattle works with Federal Aviation Administration and Environmental Protection Agency surrounding NEPA decisions. For more information on the NEPA process, visit the Council of Environmental Quality.
