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Rachel Carson's Silent Spring
This environmental science book surveyed the detrimental effects the use of pesticides such as DDT had on birds, insects, people and the land. This work of eco-literacy led to the public display of discontent toward chemical companies and thus attracted federal attention toward the budding issue. Not only did this book inspire a national movement toward environmentalism, but it was also the fuel for political action such as the nationwide ban for DDT and soon after the creation of the EPA. -
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First Epoch
Government takes responsbililty and launches federal regulations such as Clean Water and Air Act and the creation of the EPA. The end of the war spurred consumerism and the growth paradigm. -
The First Earth Day
After the Santa Barbara Oil Spill, many felt outraged and heartbroken from the lack of respect felt towards the environment.
Earth Day founder Gaylord Nelson, a U.S. Senator from Wisconsin, felt that a day dedicated to appreciating Mother Earth gave a voice to an emerging national consciousness. The movement also channeled the energy from anti-war protest movement toward environmental concerns. -
The Creation of The EPA
The Environmental Protection Agency was formed in response to the public's rising concern about environmental pollution. This governmental agency oversees the nation's conservation efforts through policy implementation, federal research and much more.
The EPA works towards protecting and preserving America's many natural wonders. -
1973 Oil Crisis
OAPEC placed an oil embargo against the US and other countries for involvement in the Yom Kippur War. Oil prices quadrupled globally. The crisis prompted conservationism efforts such as phasing out less fuel efficient cars for more fuel efficient cars. Greater emphasis was put on alternative energy sources to help manage energy demands. As an effect of the 1973 Oil Crisis greater concern was put on energy conservationism. -
Love Canal
The community of Love Canal, located in New York, received national attention when the industrial waste that had been dumped in the area's drinking water had been discovered. The water had been unknowingly causing birth defects and poisoning the people of Love Canal for years. The movement following this atrocity placed pressure on Congress to pass legislation to protect citizens against industrial waste. This led Congress to pass CERCLA, also known as the Superfund Act. -
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Second Epoch
The shift in political power from the Carter administration to the Reagan administration altered the societal climate and the public attitudes. Money machines sank their interests in into the heart of environmentalism thus shaping the epoch's rhetoric and policy. -
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Third Epoch
Amidst a world of ecological decay, environmental efforts have been focused on a future that values eco over the ego. -
President Bill Clinton Protects National Forests
President Bill Clinton protects 58 million acres of national forests from being developed and establishes 8 million acres of land as new national monuments before leaving the presidency. -
Deepwater Horizon Disaster
4.9 million barrels of oil are spilled into the Gulf of Mexico over three months after an explosion on an oil rig opens a leak and kills 11 people. After taking three months to plug the leak, this situation that is referred to as the worst environmental disaster in US history is a perfect example of why the Federal Government being reactive instead of proactive in the enforcement of compliance with environmental and safety standards is not enough anymore -
Pope Francis Calls for Environmental Justice
Environmental conservation and activism seems to grow every day with new support from diverse groups around the world. Pope Francis acknowledges the dependence of the world on fossil fuels as an enormous issue and urges people to advocate for alternative fuel sources in their communities.
