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 mentions various aspects like preserving nature (wilderness, wildlife etc.) which are part of America's heritage and also talks about pollution, toxic chemicals and energy - demand damage. All these are related to the environment. The last line "underscore the importance of environmental protection in all our lives" ties it together. The first option only focuses on nature's beauty and value. The second option only mentions pollution and energy use. The third option is too general about Americans' concerns. The fourth option, which says protecting the environment is essential for maintaining Americans' quality of life, encompasses all the points (preservation of natural heritage and dealing with environmental - harming factors) as they all relate to quality of life through environmental protection.

Answer:

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