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 discusses various environmental - related issues (preserving wilderness, wildlife, natural and historical resources; effects of pollution, toxic chemicals, energy - demand damage) and how they all highlight the importance of environmental protection for people's lives. The first option only focuses on the beauty and value of nature. The second option only mentions negative effects (pollution and energy use). The third option only states concerns. The fourth option ties together the need for environmental protection (from all the discussed issues) for maintaining Americans' quality of life, which is the overall claim.

Answer:

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