The latest news and top stories on US Environmental Protection Agency. A prominent Washington DC-based independent agency of the United States federal government, the US Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) is dedicated to protecting human health and the environment. Its main areas of focus include developing and enforcing environmental regulations, conducting research and education and setting national standards for clean air, land and water. The agency is recognised for its significant contributions to improving air and water quality, managing hazardous waste and promoting environmental sustainability across the nation.