Environmental laws were written in an effort to protect our resources for future generations and although these laws to the general public seem as if they are rarely enforced, they can carry hefty fines or even jail time for many corporations or individuals who choose to breech them. Maryland has many laws and acts on the books for the protection of its resources and while they all cannot be addressed in this forum they are extremely important for everyone to know.
Water quality laws
The water quality laws in Maryland were made to protect "clean water". This law protects the environment from the mismanagement of agricultural sediment, solid waste dumping and oil pollution. Overall it protects the environment against any kind of illegal dumping of waste into state drains and bodies of water not designated for dumping.
Groundwater laws
Groundwater laws in Maryland or in any other state or country should always be taken seriously. Groundwater is often the source of water in our homes, schools, churches and otherwise. Pollution of wells and water tables are prevented by these laws.
Air quality laws
These laws are mainly geared towards industries. It requires that industries practice safe ways of waste emissions into the air. Some industries release gases that contribute to acid rain, smog and global warming. The purpose of these laws is to ensure that measures are taken to neutralize some of these pollutants before they enter into the atmosphere.
Solid and hazardous waste laws
In Maryland like in most other states this law deals with everything from burying waste to dumping it into the sea. There are certain protocols for dealing with specific solid and hazardous waste and these rules are clearly stipulated in the laws and are to be followed strictly. Illegal dumping of these types of waste can carry hefty fines.
Laws pertaining to pesticides and chemigation.
These laws are mainly geared towards those in the agricultural industry and deals with everything from storage of the chemical to how and when they are applied to crops.
Laws protecting wildlife
Wildlife in Maryland, as in any other state, is very important. These laws designate certain areas as green spaces and some animals as endangered. This law applies mainly to hunters. It regulates the quantity of wildlife that can be hunted by any one person as well as designates specific periods for hunting. Protecting wildlife is very important and these laws are strictly enforced.
Many more environment laws exist in Maryland -this is only a synopsis of what Maryland has done to protect its environment.