What does CERCLA stand for?

The Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act, commonly known as CERCLA, was enacted in 1980 in the United States. This federal law responds to the release or threatened release of hazardous substances that may endanger public health or the environment.

The primary purpose of CERCLA is to provide a federal "Superfund" program to clean up hazardous waste sites. It establishes a framework for the cleanup of sites contaminated with hazardous substances and holds responsible parties accountable for their cleanup costs. The emphasis on "Response" indicates the law's focus on addressing environmental emergencies, while "Compensation" ensures that costs associated with cleaning up these sites can be recouped from those responsible for the contamination. Lastly, "Liability" refers to the legal responsibility of potentially responsible parties (PRPs) for contamination, facilitating accountability in environmental stewardship.

Understanding the specific wording of CERCLA is crucial, as it reflects its comprehensive approach to managing hazardous waste and highlighting the importance of both response efforts and financial liability in addressing environmental disasters.