Activity 4.1 – US Environmental History and Major Regulations

 The history of environmental thought in the United States is a rich tapestry that reflects evolving cultural values, philosophies, and societal concerns regarding nature and the environment. In Chapter 2 of Sustainability: A Comprehensive Foundation, the authors explore various perspectives that have shaped environmental thought, tracing its roots from early indigenous beliefs to contemporary ecological movements.

    Initially, Native American cultures held a deep spiritual connection to the land, viewing nature as a living entity deserving of respect and care. This perspective emphasized harmony with the environment, contrasting sharply with later European settler attitudes that often prioritized exploitation and resource extraction. The arrival of European settlers marked a significant shift in environmental thought, as the land was viewed primarily as a commodity for agriculture and development. This utilitarian approach laid the groundwork for a culture that often disregarded ecological balance in favor of economic gain. The 19th century brought about a growing awareness of the consequences of industrialization and urbanization. Figures like Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry David Thoreau championed the idea of transcendentalism, advocating for a deep appreciation of nature and the importance of individual experience in the natural world. Thoreau's Walden" epitomizes this movement, encouraging people to reconnect with nature and consider the spiritual and philosophical implications of their relationship with the environment.

As the 20th century approached, the conservation movement gained momentum, driven by figures such as John Muir and Gifford Pinchot. Muir's advocacy for the preservation of wilderness areas led to the establishment of national parks, while Pinchot emphasized the need for sustainable resource management. This period marked a significant shift from a purely exploitative view of nature to one that recognized the importance of stewardship and conservation, laying the groundwork for future environmental policies. The mid-20th century ushered in the modern environmental movement, sparked by growing public awareness of pollution and ecological degradation. Rachel Carson's Silent Spring" played a pivotal role in highlighting the dangers of pesticides and their impact on ecosystems, galvanizing public concern and leading to a broader environmental consciousness. This era saw the emergence of grassroots organizations and a call for systemic change as individuals began to recognize the interconnectedness of human health and environmental integrity.

In Chapter 7.4 of the supplemental reading by Russell and Fairfax, the authors discuss how these cultural shifts influenced environmental policy. While the focus here is on legislation, it is essential to understand that the cultural and philosophical underpinnings of environmental thought have profoundly shaped the legal frameworks that govern environmental protection in the United States. Environmental thought continues to evolve today, influenced by a growing recognition of climate change, biodiversity loss, and social justice issues. Movements advocating for environmental justice highlight the disproportionate impacts of environmental degradation on marginalized communities, pushing for a more inclusive approach to environmentalism. This contemporary perspective emphasizes that environmental issues are not solely ecological but are deeply intertwined with social, economic, and political factors.

In summary, the history of environmental thought in the United States reflects a dynamic interplay of cultural values, philosophical perspectives, and societal concerns. From indigenous worldviews to modern ecological movements, each phase has contributed to a deeper understanding of our relationship with the environment. As we navigate the challenges of the 21st century, it is crucial to draw upon this rich history to inform our future actions and policies, ensuring a sustainable and equitable relationship with the natural world.

  

References

Andrews, R. N. L. (2006). Managing the environment, managing ourselves: A history of American environmental policy (2nd ed.). Yale University Press. https://nvclibrary.on.worldcat.org/oclc/858861836 

Berg, A., & Meijer, J. (2010). Handbook of environmental policy. New York: Nova Science Publishers, Inc.

McMahon, S. (2019, July 8). How a grocery store’s plan to shame customers into using reusable bags backfired. The Salt. National Public Radio.  https://www.npr.org/sections/thesalt/2019/07/08/739580158/how-a-grocery-stores-plan-to-shame-customers-into-using-reusable-bags-backfired

Popovich, N., Albeck-Ripka, L., & Pierre-Louis, K. (2020, May 20 version). The Trump administration is reversing 100 environmental rules. Here's the full list. New York Times. https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2020/climate/trump-environment-rollbacks.html

Russell, E., & Fairfax, S. K. (2014). Guide to U.S. Environmental Policy

 (Links to an external site.)

 

Download Guide to U.S. Environmental Policy (Links to an external site.)

. CQ Press. https://nvcproxy.alamo.edu/login?url=https://search-ebscohost-com.nvcproxy.alamo.edu/login.aspx?direct=true&db=nlebk&AN=862170&site=ehost-live&scope=site&custid=s4653251&authtype=ip&ebv=EB&ppid=pp_407

Samuel, M. (2019, May 29). Cities are making big climate promises. Keeping them can be tough. Environment and Energy Collaborative. National Public Radio. https://www.npr.org/2019/05/29/724985884/cities-are-making-big-climate-promises-keeping-them-can-be-tough

San Antonio. (2019). SA climate ready. Climate Action and Adaptation, Office of Sustainability. https://www.sanantonio.gov/sustainability/SAClimateReady

Sun Sentinel. (2019, March 21). At last, Tallahassee is talking about sea-level rise. Editorial-Opinion. https://www.sun-sentinel.com/opinion/editorials/fl-op-edit-sea-level-rise-20190321-story.html

“Visme.” Visme.co, 2025, my.visme.co/editor/OUpXQW92cEUxaFprTGVqZXl4dEhodz09OjpWVk9OTEJ1b1UwMko1UklLM2lRbnR3PT0=/basics?template=ay85QXNyaE1LUDFWamZSc2pWNFZYQT09OjpJMjMxUmppOUpLNGRETzkwV0JRcGRRPT0%3D. Accessed 8 Apr. 2025

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