Draw Inferences

What events influenced the growth of environmental movement in the United States? Why did the environmental movement attract many of the same people who had participated in other movements? Do you think the environmental movement has had a positive or negative effect on the United States?

I just need to make sure my answer is okie? and what i need to expand on to make it longer:
MY ANSWER : Some events that influenced the growth of the environmental awareness were, smog, acid rain, and toxic waste that started making people really sick and created cancer and birth defects.

I agree.

What could I say to expand it ? should I add more details ?

Yes you can write more detail.

You might Google U.S. history environmental movement.

Your answer regarding the events that influenced the growth of the environmental movement in the United States is a good start. To expand on it, you can provide more details and examples about how these specific events led to an increased awareness of environmental issues.

For instance, you can mention that smog, which refers to air pollution resulting from industrial emissions, became a significant problem in cities like Los Angeles during the mid-20th century. This led to concerns about the health effects of air pollution and the need for stricter regulations on industries.

Regarding acid rain, you can explain how the burning of fossil fuels and industrial processes released pollutants into the atmosphere, which then combined with moisture to form acidic compounds in the clouds. These compounds would eventually fall as acid rain, damaging forests, lakes, and aquatic ecosystems. The impact of acid rain on the environment raised awareness and generated support for environmental protection.

Toxic waste disposal is another important factor to discuss. You can elaborate on incidents like Love Canal in the 1970s, where residents were exposed to harmful chemicals and suffered health problems due to improper waste disposal. Such incidents raised concerns about the need for better waste management practices and led to the passage of laws like the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act.

Regarding why the environmental movement attracted many people who had participated in other movements, you can explain that individuals who had been involved in civil rights, anti-war, and feminist movements saw connections between social justice issues and environmental concerns. They recognized that certain communities, such as low-income neighborhoods and communities of color, were disproportionately affected by environmental degradation and pollution. This recognition drew in individuals who sought to address both social and environmental issues.

Lastly, regarding whether the environmental movement has had a positive or negative effect on the United States, it is important to present a balanced view. You can discuss the positive impact of the movement, such as the passage of landmark legislation like the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, and the establishment of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). These measures have resulted in improved air and water quality, protected natural resources, and encouraged sustainable practices.

On the other hand, you can mention potential criticisms, such as the argument that certain regulations may impose economic burdens on businesses and hinder economic growth. Additionally, some critics argue that the movement prioritizes environmental concerns at the expense of other social and economic issues.

Expanding on these points will help you provide a more comprehensive and detailed answer.