Impact of Lobbies in the US Congress
An organized group that tries to influence lawmakers and public policy.
What is a lobby in the context of US politics?
What fossil fuel has been the main source of energy in the US for decades?
Oil.
What is the Green New Deal mainly about?
Combating climate change while creating jobs.
What is climate change denial?
The rejection or minimization of climate change and its causes.
What is a green influencer?
Someone who promotes environmental awareness on social media.
What does “flight shame” mean?
Feeling guilty about flying because of its environmental impact.
Which industry is known for spending billions of dollars lobbying the US Congress every year?
The fossil fuel / energy industry.
Name one renewable energy source widely used in the US.
Wind, solar, hydroelectric power.
Which US political party mostly supports the Green New Deal?
The Democratic Party.
Which scientific consensus do climate change deniers often reject?
That human activity causes global warming.
Which platform is most commonly used by green influencers?
Instagram, TikTok, YouTube.
Why is air travel criticized by environmental activists?
It produces high CO₂ emissions.
Name one way lobbies can influence members of Congress.
Campaign donations, expert reports, meetings, advertising.
Which US state is a leader in wind energy production?
Texas
Name one goal of the Green New Deal besides protecting the environment.
Reducing inequality, creating green jobs, improving infrastructure.
Name one argument commonly used by climate change deniers.
Climate change is natural / scientists exaggerate.
Give one example of content shared by green influencers.
Zero-waste tips, sustainable fashion, climate education.
Is flight shame a widespread concept in the US compared to Europe?
No, it is less common in the US.
Why do critics say lobbying can be a problem for democracy?
Because it can give more power to wealthy interests than to ordinary citizens.
Why is the US energy transition considered slow by environmentalists?
Because fossil fuels are still heavily used and subsidized
Why do some Republicans oppose the Green New Deal?
They say it is too expensive and unrealistic.
How has climate change denial influenced US climate policies in the past?
It delayed regulations and international agreements.
What is a criticism often made about green influencers?
They may promote “greenwashing” or consumerism.
Name one alternative to flying promoted by supporters of flight shame.
Trains, local travel, video conferencing.
How can environmental lobbies counterbalance corporate lobbies in Congress?
By raising public awareness, mobilizing voters, and supporting pro-climate candidates.
Explain one environmental consequence of continued fossil fuel consumption in the US.
Greenhouse gas emissions, air pollution, climate change.
How does the Green New Deal reflect a changing vision of the American economy?
It promotes sustainability over profit and long-term growth over short-term gains.
Why is climate change denial dangerous for future generations?
It slows action and worsens environmental damage.
How can green influencers still positively impact environmental awareness?
By reaching young audiences and encouraging eco-friendly habits.
Why is flight shame controversial in the US context?
Because of long distances, limited rail infrastructure, and economic concerns.