The U.S. Federal Government expects to spend $140,000,000,000.00 on Natural Resources and Environment in 2025. This represents 2% of all Federal spending in 2025.
Natural resources and environmental programs at the U.S. federal level focus on conserving natural ecosystems, managing public lands, addressing climate change, and ensuring the sustainable use of resources. These initiatives aim to protect the nation’s air, water, forests, and wildlife while supporting activities like energy development, scientific research, and disaster mitigation. Agencies like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Department of the Interior (DOI), and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) play key roles in implementing federal environmental policies and managing programs such as the National Parks system, water pollution control, conservation grants, and renewable energy initiatives. These efforts are vital to safeguarding the environment for future generations while balancing economic and recreational use.
Funding for natural resources and environmental programs comes primarily from federal general revenues, derived from individual and corporate income taxes and other federal tax sources. Additional funding is generated through fees, fines, and revenues from federal land use, including leases for oil, gas, and mineral extraction, as well as recreational fees for national parks and other public lands. Grants and cooperative agreements also provide funding for state and local governments, nonprofits, and private organizations to carry out environmental and conservation projects. Some programs, such as those related to energy development and disaster mitigation, may receive support from specialized trust funds or revenue-sharing agreements with states.
Spending on natural resources and environmental programs is classified as discretionary and is determined annually through the federal appropriations process. In fiscal year 2023, the federal government allocated approximately $50 billion to these programs, which represents about 1 percent of total federal spending. This funding supports a wide array of activities, including environmental cleanup, water quality improvement, wildfire prevention, conservation efforts, and renewable energy development. Major recipients include the EPA, the DOI, and the USDA, which oversee programs like the Clean Water State Revolving Fund, the Land and Water Conservation Fund, and initiatives under the Endangered Species Act. The budgeting process begins with agencies submitting funding proposals that outline their priorities and projected needs for the coming fiscal year. Congress reviews these proposals, adjusting funding levels to reflect legislative goals, emerging environmental challenges, and economic considerations. Spending on natural resources and the environment is often influenced by factors such as natural disasters, climate policy, and energy development priorities. While this sector represents a small portion of the federal budget, it plays a critical role in protecting the nation’s natural heritage, promoting sustainability, and addressing environmental challenges that have long-term economic and social impacts.
