What is the main goal of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)?

The main goal of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) is to ensure high-quality environmental standards by identifying significant impacts. CEQA mandates that state and local agencies consider the environmental impacts of their proposed projects and decisions before moving forward with them. This process includes conducting thorough environmental reviews and assessments to identify potential adverse effects on the environment, which can lead to informed decision-making and enhanced public awareness about environmental issues.

By requiring the evaluation of an array of environmental considerations, CEQA aims to promote sustainable development practices and protect California’s unique natural resources. The focus is on minimizing negative impacts rather than eliminating environmental oversight, promoting exclusive urban development, or deregulating specific environmental activities such as wetland management. Thus, the chosen answer aligns perfectly with the core intent of CEQA to balance development and environmental protection comprehensively.