Trends in Environmental Legislation

4/21/2014

 

“Within a six year period, 1970-1976, the United States Congress enacted nearly all of the basic
environmental legislation . . . most of it by overwhelming bipartisan majorities.”


– Robert V. Percival, Director of the Environmental Law Program at the University of Maryland

What happened during this time that led

to so many laws being passed in favor of protecting the environment? 

Based on the graph provided, describe the change in the trend. When was it highest? When was lowest? What is the overall rate of increase/decrease?  Be ready to present at the beginning of class tomorrow.

1. Carbon Dioxide
2. Nitrogen Oxide
3. Volatile Organic Compounds
4. Sulfur Dioxide
5. Lead
6. Total U.S. Population, Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and Vehicle Miles Traveled
7. Life Expectancy


8 major air pollutants

1. SPM                                   a. suspected carcinogens
2. VOC                                  b. blocks oxygen from cells
3. Carbon Monoxide             c. respiratory irritant & acid rain
4. Nitrogen Oxides                d. formation of ozone
5. Lead                                  e. respiratory irritant
6. Ozone                                f. poison and acid rain
7. Sulfur Oxides                    g. brain damage and death
8. Air toxics & radon            h. impair respiratory function