The Three Waves of Environmentalism.

The Three Waves of Environmentalism refer to distinct phases in the evolution of the global environmental movement. Each wave represents a shift in focus, approach, and societal engagement with environmental issues:

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1. The First Wave (Conservation and Preservation Movement – Late 19th to Early 20th Century)

Focus: Nature conservation, wilderness protection, and preserving natural resources.

Key Features:

• Emergence of national parks and protected areas.
• Emphasis on protecting pristine landscapes from industrial exploitation.
• Rooted in romantic and utilitarian views of nature.

Key Figures:

• John Muir – Advocated for the preservation of wilderness in the U.S.
• Gifford Pinchot – Promoted sustainable resource use and scientific forestry.

Major Achievements:

• Establishment of Yellowstone (first national park, 1872).
• Creation of the U.S. Forest Service and National Park Service.

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2. The Second Wave (Modern Environmental Movement – 1960s to 1980s)

Focus: Pollution control, public health, and environmental regulation.

Key Features:

• Triggered by growing awareness of pollution, pesticides, and industrial impacts.
• Mass mobilization and grassroots activism.
• Led to the formation of environmental NGOs and Earth Day.

Key Events:

• Publication of "Silent Spring" (1962) by Rachel Carson.
• First Earth Day (1970).
• Major industrial disasters (e.g., Bhopal, Love Canal) raised awareness.

Major Achievements:

• Creation of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the U.S.
• Key legislation: Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, Endangered Species Act.

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3. The Third Wave (Global and Sustainable Development Movement – 1990s to Present)

Focus: Sustainability, climate change, biodiversity, environmental justice.

Key Features:

• Global perspective linking environment with development and equity.
• Rise of climate activism, indigenous rights, and green technologies.
• Integration with economic systems via sustainable development and green economy.

Key Events:

• Earth Summit (1992) in Rio de Janeiro.
• Kyoto Protocol (1997) and Paris Agreement (2015).
• Youth-led movements (e.g., Fridays for Future).

Major Achievements:

• UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
• Mainstreaming of climate policy and carbon markets.