Which act ensures that environmental considerations are taken into account before significant actions are taken by government agencies?

The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) is the correct answer because it mandates that federal agencies assess the environmental impacts of their proposed actions before making decisions. NEPA requires federal agencies to produce detailed environmental impact statements (EIS) for projects that may significantly affect the environment. This process involves public involvement and the consideration of alternatives, ensuring that environmental factors are actively considered in the decision-making process.

In contrast, the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act focuses on waste management practices; the Clean Air Act is primarily concerned with regulating air emissions from stationary and mobile sources to protect air quality; and the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act addresses the cleanup of hazardous waste sites. While all these acts play important roles in environmental protection, NEPA specifically emphasizes the evaluation of environmental considerations before significant government actions are initiated.