What was the main focus of the 1970s environmental movement in California?

The primary focus of the 1970s environmental movement in California centered on addressing pollution and promoting conservation, which was a significant concern during this era. This decade marked an awakening regarding the impact of human activities on the environment, spurred by events such as the Santa Barbara oil spill in 1969, which heightened public awareness about pollution and its consequences on wildlife and natural resources.

Activists sought to advocate for cleaner air and water, control hazardous waste, and preserve natural habitats. The establishment of Earth Day in 1970 and the implementation of key legislation, such as the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) in 1970, reflected this movement's strong emphasis on environmental protection. These efforts illustrated a broader acknowledgment of the environmental challenges facing California, leading to significant policy changes aimed at safeguarding ecological integrity.

Options that suggest creating new wildlife reserves or reducing industrial growth do align with some of the movement's goals but do not capture the comprehensive approach of tackling existing environmental issues across various sectors, including pollution control and conservation efforts. Similarly, encouraging urban development runs contrary to the movement's objectives, as the focus was largely on curbing unsustainable practices and promoting responsible land use to protect natural spaces.