Answer to Question 1
Anecdotal evidence may suggest that environmental laws are detrimental to the economy, but studies show the opposite. Economic performance is highest where environmental public policy is most highly developed. If workers are healthier, the physical plant energy is efficient, and resources are conserved, then the company will see a larger profit and be more competitive. Therefore, the wealth is transferred from polluting companies to those that are less polluting. The environment protection industry itself is good for the economy as it employs people for a variety of jobs.
Developing countries such as China have followed the U.S. precedent that the economy should come first, but are paying for it now with bad air, polluted water, and unhealthy conditions. Given the problems these countries are having, it seems clear that the environment should come first.
Answer to Question 2
Using new techniques adapted from oil extraction, an abundant source of natural gas trapped in shale has dramatically changed the natural gas picture in the past few years.
In 2008, the U.S. economy suffered a gaping wound as several trillion dollars were ripped out of it.
Throughout history, technology has had an impact on families. Today is no exception.
Relations Between Iconic Memory, Short-Term Memory, and Long-Term Memory
Urban Environmental Challenges
Environmental policy
Earth Science is Environmental Science