POLI 172 Lecture Notes - Lecture 1: Kyoto Protocol, Chemical Industry, Earth Day
26 Apr 2016
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Document Summary
Constitution no discussion on preserving and protecting the environment: judeo-christian tradition that physical world exists to serve human needs. But during the industrial revolution concern grew over impact on environment. Recognition of pollution: 1899 law requiring that individuals dumping waste obtain a permit from the army. Corp of engineers: 1924, congress banned oceangoing ships from dumping oil in coastal waters, neither act enforced well, but indicative of growing concern. Modern environmental movement: rachel carson"s silent spring (1962) Carson argued that pesticides find their way into the air and water and harm crops, animals and people. Chemical industry attacked her but this backfired and gave her views increased public attention. Modern political era federal government has enacted major legislation: endangered species, toxic materials: asbestos, radon, and lead-based paint. Environmental protection agency (epa: nixon (1970) Clean air: clean air act of 1970. Mandated that the epa set limits on air pollutants. Clean water: clean water act of 1972.
