The Environmenta Protection Agency's primary mission is to __ A protect human health and the environment B ensure all Fortune 500 firms hire a chief sustainability officer C collect taxes from the chemical and petroleum industries D protect threatened and endangered species E encourage alternative energy sources

The correct answer is:<br /><br />**A. protect human health and the environment**<br /><br />### Explanation:<br />The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was established in 1970 with the primary mission of protecting human health and the environment. This includes enforcing regulations, conducting research, and promoting practices that reduce pollution and environmental harm. While some of the other options may relate to broader environmental goals, they do not accurately reflect the EPA's core mission.