The passage of the Clean Air Act and the Clean Water Act in the United States was primarily influenced by pressure from activists and the growing awareness of environmental issues during the 1960s and early 1970s. This period saw a significant rise in the environmental movement, with activists and organizations advocating for cleaner air and water in response to pollution and environmental degradation.
While factors like rapid population growth contributed to increased pollution, the legislation was mainly driven by public concern and activism rather than pressure from industry or a constitutional amendment. The environmental disasters and pollution-related health issues highlighted the need for regulatory frameworks to protect air and water quality, culminating in the establishment of these landmark laws.
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