Even as environmental consciousness and "green" habits become increasingly embedded with numerous individuals, many of the planet's natural resources and species remain in danger. On a global scale, effectively protecting the environment requires top-down solutions from political and economic structures and the incorporation of environmentalist initiatives into legislative and legal action. This intuitive volume examines the emergence of the environmental movement and the basic principles of environmental law. It also takes a close look at the causes of and governmental responses to species endangerment. Maps, annotated illustrations, and sidebars support the riveting narrative.