The Federal Environment Agency is the central environmental authority in Germany, based in Dessau-Roßlau. It collects data on the state of the environment, researches correlations, makes forecasts and uses this knowledge to advise the Federal Government. The Federal Environment Agency enforces environmental legislation, such as the approval of chemicals, pharmaceuticals and pesticides, and informs the public on environmental issues. Around 1,600 employees work at a total of 15 locations.