Results of Actions
Rachel Carson has effected the modern world in so many ways with her intelligence, work ethic, and leadership. She has not only been the main reason for the banning of DDT but has also been recognized, remembered, and idolized for her many accomplishments and her ability to warn and teach people about the issues involving the environment. This led to many movements and changes to benefit the world and all creatures living on it. DDT was banned in the United States of America in 1972 unfortunately not allowing Carson to see the greatest positive effect her career had on the environment. This effect ultimately saved the bald eagles, brown pelicans, and many other birds from becoming extinct and prevented future issues in other species reproductive cycles including humans. Some people have said that the banning of DDT was a negative in some countries because of the growing disease that is coming from the insects that are not being killed by the harmful pesticide. It could be proven true that there are more insects because of the banning but I feel that all of Carson's work can only be seen as positive because if it wasn't for her there would be fewer birds eating insects causing the insects population to still increase even with a dangerous pesticide in place.
Although Carson died before there was any public recognition or actions taken to benefit the environment, Carson's name and ideas have grown and lasted for many years and will always be part of the foundation for all environmental movements occurring after Rachel Carson's life. Carson's name and actions have been linked and honored on many different occasions because the environmental strides Carson took to benefit everyone on the Earth that are still main priorities of many people today. Carson's home has been named a historic site along with a 35.7 mile hiking trial, in Pittsburgh. She also has multiple schools, environmental buildings, bridges, and many parks and refuges that recognize Carson and hope to benefit her life long research by contributing and honoring her name. All of these recognitions are very important in exploring the paths of the environment Carson opened and recognized in her lifetime. Her greatest honor was the award Carson was given in 1980, which was the Presidential Medal of Freedom. This is given to a person who has effected the nation positively and secured the safety of the citizens. This award is the highest award given to a civilian for their achievements. Although Rachel Carson was not alive to finish her work on Earth all of the awards and memorials given in honor of Carson show that everything she did in her life effected and benefited the world enough to cause a reaction and make many people act. This may seem like not a large achievement to some but being able to teach the world about the importance of taking care of the environment in a lifetime is extraordinary and amazing and should be recognized for many more years to come.
