On a per capita basis Americans are the largest emitters of carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and sulfur oxides, the effects of which - including ozone depletion, poor air quality, increased greenhouse gases, and acid rain - are detrimental to both the environment and personal health.Thanks to decades of work by environmentalists this is now common knowledge in the United States, and public opinion clearly reflects awareness of the negative effects of pollution.
Macro level consciousness is a significant victory, but there has yet to be a dramatic shift in lifestyle toward incorporating environmentally sound practices.While a vast majority agrees on the dangers of sulfur and nitrogen oxide emissions from a coal-fired power plant, we want to emphasize the link between acid rain and flipping a light switch.By highlighting the connection between individual behavior and emissions we can change eco-friendly practices from an afterthought to a conscious decision.