1962: Rachel Carson publishes Silent Spring. The book releases information about the harmful effects of pesticides (including DDT) in the environment. It is credited with kick-starting the modern environmental movement.
Interestingly portions of Silent Spring were included in an integrated pest management course I completed in 2023.
Growing up I am aware of the environmental movement primarily through the plight of an iconic Canadian bird of prey that was facing extinction in the 1970’s. The validity of the movement is demonstrated in the remarkable recovery of the Peregrine Falcon. To me it is the exemplary success story associated with the early environmental movement.
As an adult my interest reignites after a trip to Asia, where I see first hand the effects of unregulated industry with zero environmental protections. Upon my return to Canada a copy of “The Sacred Balance” finds its way into my hands. Shortly after I began University as a computer science major. A year later I transferred to the department of geography and planning.

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