-
Industrial Revolution in Europe
Increased urbanization, resource usage and pollution. -
John Muir writes on conservation
First conservation groups emerge and nature reserves established. John Muir releases first conservation book. -
Passenger pigeon goes extinct
Conservation movement grows. Concern tigers, rhinos, etc. Turning point in conservation efforts. -
Dustbowl
Recognition that agricultural practices may affect soils and climate. -
NGOs gain greater following
Public awareness grows, groups about conservation formed. -
Rachel Carson writes 'Silent Spring'
General acceptance of dangers chemical toxins affecting humans. DOT is banned -
First Earth Day
Creation of Enviromental Protection Agency and passing of other laws. Mass celebration and meetings of people over state of the environment. -
C.I.T.E.S formed by IUCN
Endangered species are protected from international trade. -
Gaia Hypothesis proposed
A systems-based approach to studying the environment comes to fruition. Nature is viewed as self-regulating. - James Lovelock -
Bhopal Disaster
World's worst industrial disaster in India. -
Chernobyl Disaster
Nuclear fallout affects millions. -
Montreal Protocol
Nations agree to reduce CFC use. (Chlorofluorocarbon) -
IPCC formed formed by UNEP
Advises governments on the risks of climate change. -
Kyoto Protocol - legal requirement
174 countries signed and are expected to reduce carbon emissions to some 15% below expected emissions in 2008. It expires in 2012. -
Paris Agreement
An international treaty on climate change and how to combat the effects of climate change and mitigate it as much as possible.