Environmental Policy and Energy Sources

This set of flashcards covers key concepts and important legislation related to environmental policy and energy sources in the United States.

What is the primary conflict in environmental policymaking in the US?

The conflict between protecting human health and the environment versus the reluctance to impose costs on businesses.

What act requires federal agencies to file environmental impact statements?

The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) of 1969.

What are some key pollutants regulated under the Clean Air Act of 1970?

Federal policies have aimed at reducing air pollution levels from sources such as automobiles and industries.

What is the purpose of the Superfund established in 1980?

To clean up old toxic waste sites and hold polluting companies liable for cleanup costs.

What is a significant implication of the increase in natural gas use in the U.S.?

Natural gas provides about 35% of U.S. energy but raises environmental concerns.

How did the Trump administration affect environmental regulations?

The Trump administration weakened several environmental regulations, allowing more pollutants to enter waterways and reducing protections for endangered species.

What was a major outcome of the Paris Agreement signed in 2015?

An agreement for both developed and developing countries to limit carbon emissions.

What percentage of U.S. energy currently comes from renewable sources?

Only about 12% of U.S. energy comes from renewable sources.

How has hydraulic fracking changed the U.S. energy landscape?

Fracking has allowed the U.S. to move from being a net importer to a net exporter of energy.

What are some challenges associated with the disposal of nuclear waste?

Nuclear waste must be monitored for millennia and no permanent storage facility has been agreed upon.

How do environmental interest groups influence environmental policy?

They lobby lawmakers and educate citizens about environmental problems.

What is a challenge with the reliance on coal for energy generation?

Coal is the dirtiest fuel, responsible for greenhouse gases and environmental damage.

What happened to the protections under the Endangered Species Act during the Trump administration?

Protections were weakened, allowing exceptions for overriding national or regional interest.

What proportion of oil is used for U.S. automobile fuel?

Oil provides 25% of U.S. energy, including virtually all automobile fuel.

What are some consequences of rising greenhouse gas emissions?

Global warming leading to sea-level rise, extreme weather events, and shifts in climate zones.

What technological advances have improved coal's efficiency?

Better technology has made burning coal less polluting than in the past.

How does the Water Pollution Control Act of 1972 regulate pollution?

It regulates point source pollution, but not runoff.

How much of U.S. electricity needs is met by nuclear power?

About 19% of U.S. electricity needs are met by nuclear power.

What are the main sources of renewable energy in the U.S.?

Hydroelectric, wind, solar, geothermal, hydrogen, and biomass.

Why is the debate over hydraulic fracking significant?

It raises concerns about environmental destruction and safety hazards.

What has the American public's attitude been towards specific environmental policies?

Americans often support environmental policies in general but oppose specific implementations that may incur costs.