Which federal requirement must CNIC meet to ensure environmental compliance?

The correct answer is that CNIC must meet federal and state regulations to ensure environmental compliance. This requirement is crucial because federal and state regulations set the legal framework within which all environmental activities must operate. These regulations encompass a wide array of environmental protections, including air and water quality standards, waste management practices, and habitat conservation efforts. Compliance with these laws is not optional and is assessed through various enforcement mechanisms.

Meeting these regulations ensures that CNIC operates in a manner that protects public health and the environment, thereby fulfilling its obligations under the law. It also serves to avoid penalties, legal action, or other repercussions that could arise from non-compliance. In contrast, while environmental impact studies, internal policies, and community assessments can support compliance efforts, they do not replace the need to adhere to established regulations. These elements may aid in identifying impacts and planning, but they are secondary to the necessity of following the law set forth by federal and state authorities.