Which of the following best describes the function of the EPA?

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is primarily tasked with enforcing environmental laws designed to protect human health and the environment. This includes the regulation of pollutants and the management of natural resources, all aimed at ensuring safe and sustainable interactions between humanity and the environment. By enforcing compliance with established environmental regulations, the EPA plays a crucial role in safeguarding air and water quality, controlling hazardous waste, and overseeing the safe use of chemicals.

In contrast, promoting public education, conducting genetic research, and monitoring healthcare practices, while important in their own contexts, do not fall within the core responsibilities of the EPA. Public education efforts related to environmental issues may be part of the EPA's outreach but are not the agency's primary function. Genetic research is more aligned with biological and medical research institutions, and monitoring healthcare practices usually pertains to health agencies and organizations responsible for public health, rather than environmental protections. Thus, the function of the EPA is best captured by its role in enforcing environmental laws.