The events of 9/11 altered the political and policy landscape
for many issues including the environment. Security now
dominates policy including the protection of water resources,
nuclear plants, etc. and how the nation might become more energy
independent. However, two historical underlying themes continue
to dominate the long term public policy debate about
environmental policy. First, how much environmental protection
do we want and can we afford as a nation? Much of the public
expects protection from air and water pollution and good
stewardship of resources. While significant reductions in gross
pollution have occurred over the past thirty-five years,
pollution problems and adequate protection of natural resources
are still major concerns. Second, are the market and voluntary
measures or the regulatory power of the state the best way to go
to protect the environment? While a mix of both are necessary,
the debate is fierce. As power shifts from the federal
government to state and local authorities, this de