Environmental standards are guidelines and regulations set by governments and organizations to protect the environment and public health. These standards help control pollution, manage natural resources, and ensure that industries operate in a sustainable manner. They can cover various areas, including air quality, water quality, waste management, and the use of chemicals. Compliance with environmental standards is essential for businesses and industries to minimize their ecological footprint. Organizations like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the United States establish these standards, which often require regular monitoring and reporting to ensure that environmental goals are met and maintained.