In the 46 years since the first Earth Day, we have seen a lot of accomplishments.
Whether we will succeed in salvaging the habitability of the planet, or if William Burroughs was right and our only chance of survival is in space, remains to be seen. But as we celebrate our 47th Earth Day, let’s take a look back on some of the biggest legal wins for the planet.
Banning DDT
Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) is pesticide that was widely used after World War II. As with most pesticides, it harms far more than pests.
In addition to causing cancer and nervous system disorders in humans, it causes thinning of bird shells. In 1972, its use was banned in the U.S. After that, populations of bald eagles and other birds that were nearing extinction bounced back.
Unfortunately, it is still used in other parts of the world.
Protecting Endangered Species
In 1973, the Endangered Species Act was passed. It protects animals and plants that are listed are endangered because their numbers have become so small.
The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species went into effect in 1975. Countries that sign agree to ban or restrict trade in endangered species and their body parts.
Superfund
The Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 was passed to clean up sites contaminated with hazardous wastes and other toxins.
It gives the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) the power to make polluters clean up their mess, or to do it for them and make them pay for it.
Even with these and the numerous other accomplishments so far, and whether you believe that climate change is manmade or a natural cycle, we are experiencing it and suffering the consequences.
It’s something to keep in mind as National Wildfire Community Preparedness Day approaches.
About Sandra Dalton
