- Opposition to Policies
- The Common Good
- Citizen Involvement


[SLIDE 1]

Since environmental public policies have costs and affect both personal and business life, they are often hotly debated and contested by politicians and political parties.

In the 1990s, the environmental movement which had enjoyed bipartisan support in early years, faced a backlash. There were efforts to dismantle key laws such as the Clean Water Act and Clean Air Act.

Congressional Republicans that voted for Ronald Reagan promoted free enterprise but also pushed for deregulation and to defund the EPA and dismantle key protective laws. These efforts were met with resistance from grassroots environmentalists.


[SLIDE 2]

Many environmental advocates have pushed for environmental policy to be seen as a matter of public good above special interests or political parties.
Presidents have a lot of influence over public opinion and policy. Under President Bush, there were some anti-environmental policies. Under President Obama, CO2 and greenhouse gases were recognized as a threat to public health.

The Stimulus Bill of 2009 included $40 billion for clean energy and energy efficient programs.


[SLIDE 3]

What can you do as a public citizen to be involved? Be educated and learn the facts. Stay informed.

Share your opinions and concerns. Contact your legislators. Bring attention to issues that matter to you.

Finally, you can make efforts to come up with solutions to address and solve any given problem.