Page 100 - Pipeline Pigging Technology

Environmental considerations and risk assessment

While all of the laws listed in Table 1 potentially may affect the day-to-day
operations of a pipeline, only a few have the proven potential to have a
significant operational or financial impact on companies with pipeline
systems. The following paragraphs describe these most significant laws, and
summarize their specific impacts on the pipeline industry.

NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT
(NEPA)

Synopsis: Signed into law on 1st January, 1970, NEPA represents the first
attempt by Congress to define an environmental policy for the United States.
The goal of NEPA was to develop practicable means to conduct federal
activities that will promote the general welfare of, and be in harmony with,
the environment.
The most significant provision of NEPA is contained in Section 102(2)(c).
This provision requires that a detailed environmental impact statement (EIS)
be prepared for every major federal action that may significantly affect the
quality of the environment. In particular, the following issues must be
addressed:

the environmental impact of the proposed action;
any adverse environmental effects which cannot be avoided should the
proposed action be implemented;
alternatives to the proposed action;
the relationship between local short-term activities and long-term
enhancement of productivity of man's environment; and
any irreversible and irretrievable commitments of resources that would
occur should the proposed action be implemented.

It is important to note that NEPA applies to federal agencies only, and that
the EISs must be prepared only by the responsible federal agency. However,
state and local agencies and private parties may assist or be required to assist
the responsible federal agency. The final analysis of the data, as well as the
conclusions reached, must be the responsibility of the appropriate federal
agency.
The major impact of NEPA is not found within the procedural require-
ments for federal agencies, but rather in the fact that its passage has resulted
in a new attitude and awareness toward environmental protection. NEPA

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