Question

read the passage from a letter that president jimmy carter wrote to congress in 1977. this message brings together a great variety of programs. it deals not only with ways to preserve the wilderness, wildlife, and natural and historical resources which are a beautiful and valued part of americas national heritage: it deals also with the effects of pollution, toxic chemicals, and the damage caused by the demand for energy. each of these concerns, in its own way, affects the environment, and together they underscore the importance of environmental protection in all our lives. which statement best describes the overall claim? the wilderness and the rest of nature contain beauty and value for all americans. pollution and the amount of energy people use have negative effects on the environment. americans have many concerns about the environment and how it is being affected. protecting the environment is essential for maintaining americans quality of life.

Explanation:

The passage first covers environmental preservation programs, then addresses environmental harms like pollution and energy demand impacts, and concludes by stating these concerns highlight that environmental protection is important for all lives. The final sentence ties all the discussed points to the core claim of environmental protection's necessity for Americans' well-being. Other options only cover partial elements of the passage, not the overall claim.

Answer:

Protecting the environment is essential for maintaining Americans' quality of life.