Meaning: Barry Commoner, an American biologist, educator, and environmental activist, made this statement in his book "The Closing Circle" in 1971. Commoner was a prominent figure in the environmental movement of the 20th century and was known for his advocacy for environmental sustainability and social justice. In this quote, Commoner is referring to the efforts made by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the 1970s to reduce air-pollutant emissions and their diminishing effectiveness over time.

In the early 1970s, the EPA was established in response to growing concerns about environmental pollution, particularly air pollution. The Clean Air Act of 1970 was a landmark piece of legislation that empowered the EPA to set national air quality standards and regulate air pollution from industrial and mobile sources. The EPA introduced various methods to control and reduce air-pollutant emissions, such as setting emissions standards for vehicles and industrial facilities, promoting the use of cleaner fuels, and implementing pollution control technologies.

Initially, these efforts were successful in improving air quality and reducing air-pollutant emissions. The introduction of catalytic converters in vehicles, the use of scrubbers in industrial plants, and the phase-out of leaded gasoline were among the measures that contributed to a significant reduction in air pollution in the following years. However, as Commoner points out, the effectiveness of these methods has waned over time.

One reason for the diminishing effectiveness of the EPA's methods is the phenomenon of "regulatory capture," where regulatory agencies become influenced or controlled by the industries they are meant to regulate. Over time, industry lobbying and political pressure have led to weakened regulations, loopholes, and delays in the implementation of stricter pollution controls. Additionally, the rapid growth of industrialization and urbanization has outpaced the regulatory efforts to curb air pollution, leading to new sources of emissions and challenges in enforcement.

Furthermore, technological advancements and changes in consumer behavior have also played a role in the diminishing effectiveness of the EPA's methods. While early pollution control technologies were effective in reducing emissions from industrial sources, new challenges have emerged with the rise of decentralized and diffused sources of pollution, such as small-scale industrial activities, agriculture, and residential heating. Additionally, the increasing use of fossil fuels and the expansion of transportation systems globally have contributed to the persistence of air pollution.

Commoner's quote serves as a reminder of the ongoing and evolving nature of environmental challenges. It underscores the need for continuous evaluation and adaptation of environmental policies and regulations to address new sources of pollution and emerging environmental threats. It also raises questions about the role of political will, public participation, and technological innovation in achieving sustainable solutions to environmental problems.

In conclusion, Barry Commoner's quote highlights the initial success and subsequent decline in the effectiveness of the EPA's methods to reduce air-pollutant emissions. It points to the complex and dynamic nature of environmental challenges and the need for continued vigilance and innovation in addressing air pollution and other environmental issues. Commoner's insights remain relevant today as we grapple with the ongoing task of protecting the planet and safeguarding public health from the impacts of pollution.