NATIONAL LEGISLATION
NAME
INFORMATION
SUMMARY OF GOALS AND REGULATIONS
PROS
CONS
IMPACT ON COMMUNITY
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE ORGANIC ACT
Established in 1916, the National Park Service Organic Act created the National Park Service to protect and preserve the natural and cultural resources of the U.S. national parks.
The goal is to conserve the scenery, natural and historic objects, and wildlife in the parks for future generations. It also aims to provide enjoyment of these resources in a way that leaves them unimpaired.
- Preserves the natural beauty and cultural significance of U.S. national parks
- Allows for public enjoyment of these natural resources
- Can limit development and commercial activities in national parks
- Some argue that it restricts land use and economic growth in areas surrounding national parks
- Plays a key role in preserving and protecting the natural and cultural heritage of the U.S. national parks
CLEAN AIR ACT
Originally passed in 1963 and amended several times, the Clean Air Act aims to regulate air pollution at a national level.
The goal is to protect and improve the quality of the air by setting standards for emissions of pollutants, such as sulfur dioxide and particulate matter.
- Improves air quality and public health
- Reduces emissions of harmful pollutants
- Can lead to increased costs for industries to comply with regulations
- Some argue it can stifle economic growth
- Has led to significant reductions in air pollution and improved public health
CLEAN WATER ACT
Enacted in 1972, the Clean Water Act regulates discharges of pollutants into U.S. waters and sets water quality standards.
The goal is to restore and maintain the chemical, physical, and biological integrity of the nation's waters.
- Protects water quality and aquatic ecosystems
- Prevents pollution from entering U.S. waters
- Can be costly for industries to comply with regulations
- Critics argue it can be overly burdensome for businesses
- Has improved water quality in U.S. rivers, lakes, and streams
SOIL AND WATER RESOURCES CONSERVATION ACT
The Soil and Water Resources Conservation Act was passed in 1977 to improve land use and conservation practices related to soil and water resources.
The goal is to prevent soil erosion, conserve water, and encourage sustainable land management practices.
- Promotes sustainable agriculture and land management
- Protects soil and water resources for future generations
- Some farmers may find regulations burdensome
- Can require significant investment in conservation practices
- Has helped reduce soil erosion and improve land productivity
ENDANGERED SPECIES ACT
The Endangered Species Act, passed in 1973, aims to protect and recover threatened and endangered species and their habitats.
The goal is to prevent extinction and promote the recovery of endangered species through conservation efforts.
- Protects endangered species from extinction
- Preserves biodiversity and ecosystems
- Can restrict land use and economic development
- Some argue it prioritizes species over human interests
- Has helped prevent the extinction of numerous plant and animal species
Complete the following table
NATIONAL LEGISLATION
NAME
INFORMATION
SUMMARY OF GOALS AND REGULATIONS
PROS
CONS
IMPACT ON COMMUNITY
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE ORGANIC ACT
CLEAN AIR ACT
CLEAN WATER ACT
SOIL AND WATER RESOURCES CONSERVATION ACT
ENDANGERED SPECIES ACT
1 answer
1 answer