(a) To implement the provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq., the Council on Environmental Quality Regulations for Implementing the Procedural Provisions of NEPA, 40 CFR 1500-1508, and the Department of Defense Instruction on Environmental Planning and Analysis, DODINST 4715.9, and to assign responsibilities within the Department of the Navy (DON) for preparation, review, and approval of environmental documents prepared under NEPA.

(b) The policies and responsibilities set out in this part apply to the DON, including the Office of the Secretary of the Navy, and Navy and Marine Corps commands, operating forces, shore establishments, and reserve components. This part is limited to the actions of these elements with environmental effects in the United States, its territories, and possessions.