by Kara Villamil

About the author: Kara Villamil is a science writer and media relations representative at Brookhaven National Laboratory in Upton, New York.

As the twentieth century draws to a close, the United States can look back on its scientific and technological achievements with pride. Especially during the past 100 years, this country has been leading the world in both industrial and military strengths, and the end seems nowhere in sight.

Technology Has Hurt the Environment

But these accomplishments have come with a price. One dimension that has suffered seriously is the environment. The American landscape is pockmarked with sites polluted by factories and power plants, mines and weapons labs. Many toxic chemicals and radioactive wastes linger on, bearing silent witness to the cavalier attitude with which we have treated our environment.

At government...