NPPE Environmental and Social Responsibilities 4

Question 1

Under NEPA, what is the threshold document required before a federal agency decides whether a full Environmental Impact Statement is necessary?

Accepted Answer

Environmental Assessment (EA)

Answer

An Environmental Assessment (EA) is the preliminary document used to determine whether a proposed federal action requires a full EIS.

Question 2

A licensed engineer discovers that a completed stormwater management design will likely cause downstream erosion in a protected wetland. What is the engineer's primary obligation?

Accepted Answer

Notify the client and recommend corrective measures

Answer

Engineers must hold public safety and environmental protection paramount and are obligated to inform the client and recommend remediation.

Question 3

Which federal law specifically governs the cleanup of contaminated soil and groundwater at abandoned hazardous waste sites in the US?

Accepted Answer

CERCLA (Superfund)

Answer

CERCLA (Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act), commonly known as Superfund, governs cleanup of hazardous waste sites.

Question 4

In a life-cycle assessment (LCA), which phase evaluates the environmental burdens associated with a product from raw material extraction through end-of-life disposal?

Accepted Answer

Impact assessment

Answer

The impact assessment phase in LCA translates inventory data into potential environmental impacts across the product's entire life cycle.

Question 5

A construction project in a US city requires a permit under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act. What activity does this permit regulate?

Accepted Answer

Discharge of dredged or fill material into waters of the US

Answer

Section 404 permits, administered by the Army Corps of Engineers, regulate the discharge of dredged or fill material into navigable waters and wetlands.

NPPE - National Professional Practice Examination Practice Test

NPPE - National Professional Practice Examination Practice Test

NPPE Environmental and Social Responsibilities 4