<human>:  What role does the government play in protecting the environment?
<bot>: The government plays an important role in protecting the environment by enacting and enforcing laws and regulations that limit pollution, conserve resources, and protect wildlife. They can offer incentives to businesses that use renewable energy sources and reduce their carbon footprint, and they can also provide funding for research and development of new green technologies. Additionally, the government can help educate the public on the importance of environmental protection, and they can provide resources to help communities become more sustainable.