U.S. Government: Democracy in Action 2002 U.S. Government: Democracy in Action

Glencoe Social Studies U.S. Government: Democracy in Action
Gelncoe Online
Student Web Activities
 Chapter 21: Social and Domestic Policy
 "Recycling"

Introduction
This chapter discusses the impact of national policy on your life and examines how political issues affect social and domestic policy. One aspect of domestic policy deals with the environment. The government plays a large role promoting conservation and protecting the environment. In this activity you will visit the Environmental Protection Agency's Web site to learn more about recycling.

Destination Title: The Environmental Protection Agency: Recycling

Note: Clicking on the link above will launch a new browser window.
Need help using your browser for this activity? Click here for tips.

Directions
Start at the Environmental Protection Agency's Web page on recycling.

  • Scroll down the page, reading the information on the Recycling Process, Recycling Facts and Figures, and Opportunities.
  • Under Recycling Facts and Figures, click on MSW Facts and Figures.
  • Click on State MSW Data.
  • Scroll down and examine the various maps presented, taking notes as you go.

After you have read through the information, answer the following questions.

1. Briefly describe the three steps outlined in the recycling process.


2. What are some ways that businesses, local governments, and citizens can participate in the recycling effort?


3. On the map "State Recycling Rates," which states have the highest rates of recycling? Which states have the lowest? How does your state rate?


4. Look at the last map, "Years of Remaining Landfill Capacity." What do you think will happen when the landfills reach their capacity? What can our country do to solve this problem?


5. On a separate sheet of paper write a newspaper editorial in which you discuss the importance of recycling and make suggestions as to what citizens, businesses, and the government should do to help clean up the environment.