Endangered Species Act

The Endangered Species Act (ESA), enacted in 1973 in the United States, aims to protect and recover species at risk of extinction and their habitats. It identifies threatened and endangered species, prohibiting actions that harm them or their environments. The law requires federal agencies to consider the impact of their actions on these species and mandates recovery plans. By safeguarding biodiversity, the ESA seeks to ensure that future generations can enjoy a rich array of wildlife and ecosystems. The act represents a commitment to conservation and the protection of our planet’s natural heritage.