1973 - The oil embargo causes energy prices to double in months, prompting interest in alternative energy sources. 1977 - The Department of Energy is created. 1978 - The plastic beverage container is introduced. By 1994, a total of 133 countries have signed the treaty. The Clean Air Act Amendments are passed, legislating stricter emissions regulations and an end to the production of many ozone-depleting chemicals.
Environmental technology is the source of new billion dollar businesses and thousands of jobs.