Born in the wake of elevated concern about environmental pollution, EPA was established on December 2, 1970 to consolidate in one agency a variety of federal research, monitoring, standard-setting and enforcement activities to ensure environmental protection. Since its inception, EPA has been working for a cleaner, healthier environment for the American people.

Origins of EPA. Learn about when and why the Agency began, how it was initially organized, and the origins of the EPA seal.

Historical Topics. Find resources about the history of environmental statutes and regulations; disasters and emergencies; and other environmental topics of historical interest, like DDT, Earth Day, and noise pollution.

Historical Photos and Images. View photos from EPA's Documerica Project (1971-1977) and from non-historical environmental photo collections.

Other sources of materials on EPA history.

Milestones in EPA and Environmental History

• You can also read reports, speeches and articles about EPA's achievements and anniversary celebrations on the EPA accomplishments page.